The Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh has joined a new network of dioceses and parishes that oppose same-sex blessings and the ordination of gay clergy.

By a 16-4 vote at a diocesan council meeting Tuesday night, members ratified inclusion in the Network of Anglican Communion Dioceses and Parishes, chartered last month by lay and clergy representatives from 12 dioceses to "constitute a true and legitimate expression of the world-wide Anglican Communion."

Pittsburgh is the third diocese -- joining Central Florida and Fort Worth -- to join.

The Rt. Rev. Robert W. Duncan Jr., bishop of the diocese and moderator of the new association, said the vote changes neither individual parishes' relationship with the diocese nor the diocese's relationship to the national church.

But an official with Progressive Episcopalians of Pittsburgh, an organization of clergy and laity seeking a more inclusive Episcopal Church, said the council vote is a step toward schism in the church.

"The network does not fit within the governing structure of [the Episcopal Church]," said Joan Gunderson.

Steve Levin can be reached at 412-263-1919.