Later Monday, McCain was scheduled to attend a fundraiser hosted by Ralph Reed, a former executive director of the Christian Coalition, an evangelical group.

CNN: McCain questions Obama's ability to be commander in chief

The Reverend Rod Thomas, chairman of the evangelical group Reform, said the idea of appointing people in civil partnerships as bishops had not been agreed or debated by the wider Church.

BBC: CofE drops opposition to gay bishops in civil partnerships

Canon Simon Killwick (who chairs the synod's Catholic group) and Prebendary Rod Thomas (of the evangelical group Reform) pledged jointly to help "ensure the speedy and safe passage of fresh legislation".

BBC: Women bishops: Backers look to new general synod election