DEFENDING MARRIAGE, REJECTING INJUSTICE AND DISCRIMINATION: Archbp Alexander J. Brunett

...Marriage existed before churches and governments because the union of a man and woman is unique in its ability to create children and give them the best environment for growth and wholesome development. Defending marriage between a man and woman is a matter of critical importance because it is a building block for the family, which in turn serves as the foundation for society.

Proponents of legalizing same-sex unions characterize marriage as a right. They even use terminology associated with the civil-rights struggles of the 1960s. Some of the rights they claim under the banner of "gay marriage" may indeed be legitimate and the bishops of Washington believe this is a subject for legitimate public debate.

We believe, however, that this debate will gain legitimacy only if it focuses on the God-given right of all people to dignity and equality, and not from a distorted understanding of marriage. Catholic Church teaching makes it clear that if such benefits were to be legislated, they must be granted without damaging the essential character of marriage between a man and a woman. ...

Proponents of same-sex unions and so-called gay marriage have accused those defending marriage as mean-spirited and intolerant. To them I would say that Catholic Church teaching on the dignity and equality of all persons is no less clear than our teaching on matrimony. We reject all unjust discrimination, recognize the inherent dignity of all people and strive to provide every person with equal protection under the law. Our track record here in Washington will confirm that point.

We must, however, defend our teaching that marriage was not created by the church or state but by God, and that the union of a man and woman in marriage is ordered by God and nature for the common good.

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posted by Eve at 5:41 PM | link

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