Skip to main content

Home Culture Culture Film & TV

‘Songs of Praise’ makes history with first ever same-sex wedding

Jamie Wallace and Ian McDowell tied the knot during the long-running BBC series

By Steve Brown

Words: Steve Brown

Songs of Praise makes history with the first ever same-sex wedding.

The long-running BBC show has often performed weddings but never has there been a same-sex couple tying the knot.

However, during the programme on Sunday (August 18), Jamie Wallace and Ian McDowell walked down the aisle of the Rutherglen United Reformed Church, near Glasgow, after the local congregation gave their backing.

Jamie said: “Jesus preaches about love, inclusion, kindness, compassion.

“A good lady who comes to this church told us in one of our discussions, people will change, and don’t underestimate older people, either.

“They just need to think about it, and they’ll get there one day.

“As a committed Christian, being able to marry the man I love with all my heart and soul, before God, in the church I love, with my family, friends and the congregation around us, is something I’ve dreamed of.

“Now it’s actually happened, I’m proud my church is welcoming and open to same-sex couples.”

Watch Jamie and Ian marry below: