(CNN) -- The Episcopal Church has moved decisively closer to full acceptance of gay men and lesbians, taking steps toward recognizing same-sex marriage and gay bishops. Gene Robinson is the Episcopal Church's first -- and so far only -- openly gay bishop. A key committee voted overwhelmingly Monday to start putting together blessings to be used in same-sex marriages, the church's official newspaper reported. Separately, the House of Bishops voted by a wide margin to allow gays and lesbians to become bishops, Episcopal Life reported. Both measures must be approved by the church's General Convention before taking effect, but expert Mark Silk said there is "little reason" to think the changes will not "sail through."
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U.S. denomination takes steps to bless same-sex unions, accept gay clergy
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Changes must be approved by church's General Convention
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Church sparked controversy in 2003 by ordaining a gay man as a bishop
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Archbishop of Canterbury expresses regret over decision on clergy
But on Monday, he expressed "regret" at the vote on gay and lesbian bishops, according to @placeholder.