The decision by the bishop and the standing committee of the Diocese of Delaware to publish guidelines for the blessings of same-gender relationships [TLC, Nov. 18] is an unfortunate development in the ongoing tension within the Episcopal Church. Before the church has taken action on whether such relationships ought to be blessed, Delaware has decided on its own to authorize unscriptural rites, apparently because three congregations requested it. In taking this action, Delaware has separated itself from catholic practice, from the belief of a vast majority of Christians, and from most of the Anglican Communion. Delaware is not the first diocese to allow for these blessings to take place, but its disregard for those who cannot accept such an innovation will further splinter an already fragile body. There is a proper, and canonical, method of bringing about changes within the church. The leadership of the Diocese of Delaware has decided to ignore it.