NOM BLOG

Statement of Bishop Tobin on R.I. push for SSM

 

From the Diocese of Providence website:

"As the State of Rhode Island enters into a more intense debate about ‘gay marriage,' with all the emotions surrounding that issue, I first want to re-affirm that the Catholic Church has nothing but the utmost respect and care for individuals with homosexual orientation. They are children of God and our brothers and sisters. We seek God's blessings upon them; they deserve the same respect and love afforded to others.  At the same time, the push to legalize the marriage of homosexual persons is morally wrong and detrimental to the well-being of our State. I am deeply disappointed that Governor Chafee and leaders of the State House are rushing this legislation without the full consent of the citizens of the State.

The proposal to change the traditional definition of marriage and thus alter the fundamental building block of our society is an enormous decision with profound consequences. If the debate is to happen at all, it deserves a full, robust and open discussion. The citizens of our State must have the opportunity to vote on something that is so basic to the social fabric of our community and the well-being of our families, especially our children." [Continue reading]

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