PITTSBURGH—A dozen rectors and priests in the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh are opposed to a move by their bishop to bolt the national church for a more conservative alignment.

In a letter to Bishop Robert Duncan, the church leaders outlined their opposition to removing the diocese 66 churches from the national Episcopal Church.

The disputes are over the national church’s support for ordaining gay clergy and same-sex marriages.

The rectors and priests who signed the letter say they do not support these moves, but do not want to realign outside the church.

In November, the Pittsburgh diocese overwhelmingly voted to leave the church, making the future of parish properties, pensions and missions uncertain. A second vote this year would make the move final.