As a Catholic, I have been taught, absorbed, and lived the doctrines of spirituality of the Roman Catholic Church. My Church has directed me well to love what is right and just. Not only to stand up for the oppressed but to search my own soul lest it harbor prejudice or hatred toward anyone. Being true to one's conscience is an essential teaching of the Catholic faith.
And so I must speak now as my conscience dictates. Having studied this question of same-gender marriage from every angle available to me, and having associated with broad range of members of the gay community, both on and off of this site, I conclude that same-gender couples have a right to petition their state that they live in to have their marriages lawfully recognized and protected. And that state, considering the right of all of its citizens to live free from bullying, discrimination, physical and psychological violence, which is so carelessly heaped upon gay and lesbian persons, would do well to support same-gender marriage.
To want to be married is not a frivolous request. If anyone wanted to live a dissolute and totally selfish life they would not want to tie themselves down with a marriage certificate! Marriage is a bond that is made public, it brings with it responsibilities and entails sacrifices.
THe truth is there are homosexual couples, living right now, in long-term relationships, and a significant number are raising children. But because their bond has never been considered "normal" they have not been afforded the dignity and the respect their lives deserve by either Church or their State. THe State now has the opportunity to make a level playing field for all its citizens. Churches have their own laws directing whom they will allow to be married, and their freedom to do so is protected in law.
Is there any other group of human beings that has struggled so hard, so long to live within the law? Human beings that just want to live as a family unit, within their extended families? Not, undeservedly, outlawed by their State and their Churchs?
Do not ever assume that all Catholics are against gay marriages. The number of Catholics within the Church that offer education and understanding for gays and lesbians is now significant. They, too, hold marriage in the highest esteem, but they want it to be available to our gay and lesbian children also.
What are your thoughts on this subject? All are welcome. Thank You.
Rev.John.
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