Clergy who deny key doctrines could face heresy trials, the Church of England warns.
The House of Laity overwhelmingly voted Monday to establish tribunals to try doctrinal cases. The proposals had previously been rejected after clergy expressed fears of a witch hunt.
Parishioners could report clergy for denials of doctrine such as the Virgin Birth or the bodily resurrection of Christ. Preaching liberal doctrines on homosexuality may also be considered an offense.
Members of the House, meeting in London before the Church's General Synod began, criticized liberal clergy for diluting traditional teaching, but noted they did not propose burning heretics at the stake.
Member Peter LeRoy said the measures were essential to "sound teaching," the Telegraph reported.
He quoted "astonishing" figures from a 2002 Church of England survey, which found just 76 percent of clergy believed Jesus Christ died to take away the sins of the world, 68 percent believed Jesus rose physically from the dead and 53 percent believed faith in Jesus was the only way they could be saved.
The proposals will be voted on at next year's Synod and if approved will go before Parliament, where it will require legislation. Heresy trials could then begin within five years.