The Church of Scotland has said it cannot agree that the law in Scotland should be changed to allow same-sex marriage.

It said debate on the issue has been "patchy" and "undeveloped" and said that much more measured consideration is needed.

The statement was made in response to the Scottish Government consultation launched in September, which is asking if marriage in Scotland should be allowed for gay people through a civil or religious ceremony.

Currently, same-sex couples can enter a civil partnership which carries full legal rights but the ceremony cannot be conducted in a church or other religious premises.

In the statement, the Church of Scotland said: "The Church of Scotland cannot agree that the law in Scotland should be changed to allow same-sex marriage.

"The Government's proposal fundamentally changes marriage as it is understood in our country and our culture - that it is a relationship between one man and one woman.

"In common with the historic position of the Christian Church, the Church of Scotland has always viewed marriage as being between one man and one woman. Scriptural references to marriage, whether literal or metaphorical, all operate under this understanding.

"To redefine marriage to include same-sex marriage may have significant and, as yet, inadequately considered repercussions for our country, for the well-being of families, communities and individuals."

A recent Scottish Social Attitudes survey found that more than 60% of people believe same-sex couples should have the right to marry, compared with 19% who disagree.

Ministers and officials have been meeting with key groups to discuss the proposals, which would ensure religious organisations do not have to register same-sex marriages against their will.

The Church said that it also cannot agree to the Government's proposal that legislation should be changed so that civil partnerships may be registered through religious ceremonies or by religious celebrants or on religious premises.

It added: "The Church of Scotland believes homophobia to be sinful; and it is the duty of the Church to welcome, reach out to and minister to all, regardless of sexual orientation and practice."

Green MSP Patrick Harvie described the Church of Scotland as "intolerant" by trying to prevent same-sex couples from marrying.

He said: "Allowing couples to get married, irrespective of gender, will strengthen marriage, just as giving women the vote strengthened democracy.

"There are same-sex couples across Scotland who want their relationships to be recognised just as their heterosexual friends' and families' relationships are recognised, and they should have that right.

"Equally, there are faith groups who wish to marry same-sex couples who worship with them, and it is their right to do so too.

"The Church of Scotland may not yet wish to respect and honour these couples, but it is intolerant of the Kirk to seek to prevent others from doing so."

The SNP said consultation is continuing on the issue and urged people to submit views they have on the subject.