The Church of England's general synod has voted in favour of offering blessings to same-sex couples in civil partnerships and marriages.
A marathon near-eight hour debate across two days ended in a vote for the proposals on Thursday at a meeting of what is known as the church's parliament.
A packed room at Church House in Westminster remained relatively silent when the result of the vote was announced.
Immediately before the vote a minute of silence was observed followed by a prayer said by the Archbishop of Canterbury.
The position on gay marriage will not change and same-sex couples will still be unable to marry in church.
The motion also included an acknowledgement of a "failure" to welcome LGBTQI+ people and a repentance for the harm they have and continue to experience in the church.
In a vote broken down by houses, the House of Bishops voted 36 for and four against with two abstentions.
The House of Clergy voted 111 in favour, 85 against and three abstentions, while the House of Laity saw 103 votes for, 92 against and five abstentions.
Bishop of London, Dame Sarah Mullally, described the vote in favour of the motion as a "moment of hope for the Church".
Bishop Mullally, who led the debate and chairs the group which oversaw the development of the proposals, said: "I know that what we have proposed as a way forward does not go nearly far enough for many but too far for others.
"It is my prayer that what has been agreed today will represent a step forward for all of us within the Church, including LGBTQI+ people, as we remain committed to walking together.
"We have always said we will listen carefully to Synod, so over the next few months so we will reflect on everything which has been said and prepare new pastoral guidance for the Church on matters of sexuality and marriage. We will also refine the texts of prayers of love and faith."
