VIDEO: See Maine's Bishop Malone's Homily Against Marriage Equality Played in Parishes Across State

This past Sunday, Maine's Bishop Malone had the following homily played in parishes across the state followed by another special collection to go towards the Yes on 1 campaign.



Transcript:

...Furthermore, we believe the natural institution of marriage has been blessed and elevated by Christ, to the dignity of a sacrament.

This means, a Christian marriage is more than a contract. Because they are married in the Lord, the spouses acquire a special relationship to each other, and to Society. Their love becomes a living image of the manner which the Lord personally loves His people and is united with them. Living a Christian sacramental marriage becomes their fundamental way of attaining salvation.

Because the marital relationship offers benefits unlike any other, to persons, to Society, and to the Church, we wish to make it clear that the institution of marriage, as the union of one man and one woman, must be preserved protected and promoted, in both private and public realms. At a time, when family life is under signifigant stress, the principle defense of marriage is an urgent necessity for the well-being of children and families and for the common good of Society.

Thus, we oppose attempts to grant the legal status of marriage to a relationship between persons of the same sex. A same sex union can never realize the unique and full potential that the marital relationship expresses. For this reason, our opposition to same-sex marriage is not an instance of unjust discrimination or animosity toward homosexual persons; in fact, the Catholic Church teaches emphatically that individuals and Society must respect the basic human dignity of all persons, including those with a homosexual orientation.

Homosexual persons have a right to, and deserve, our respect, compassion, understanding and defense against prejudice and abuse.

We urge Catholics and all our fellow citizens to commit themselves, both to upholding the human dignity of every person and to defending the distinct and irreplaceable institution of marriage.

Louise from Pam's House Blend posted a story today about how not all Catholic church members support the Bishop's stance of marriage equality. I recommend reading it.

Go to NO on 1/Protect Maine Equality and get involved!