English bishops rap government's bid to legalize same-sex marriage
December 11, 2012
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales has issued a clear statement of opposition to the government’s plan to recognize same-sex marriage.
“We strongly oppose such a Bill,” the bishops say. Their statement denounces the government’s approach to the issue as “shambolic,” saying that the leadership is taking action with “no electoral mandate” and no serious public consultation. The government ignored a petition, signed by 600,000 people, defending the existing legal definition of marriage, the bishops note.
In a separate statement, Bishop Philip Egan of Portsmouth warned that the redefinition of marriage would have “catastrophic consequences” for the family. He said: “If the Prime Minister proceeds with his intentions, he will pervert authentic family values, with catastrophic consequences for the well-being and behavior of future generations.”
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Further information:
- Statement on the government response to the same sex marriage consultation (Bishops' Conference of England and Wales)
- Criticism for PM over gay marriages (Bicester Advertiser)
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Posted by: Defender -
Dec. 11, 2012 4:44 PM ET USA
How about Bishop Devine who "delivered an extraordinary attack on David Cameron by accusing him of being “devoid of moral competence” and comparing him to Nero, the brutal Roman emperor who persecuted Christians." Even better: "'So far as the Roman Catholic Church … is concerned, you are out of your depth. We will take no finger-prodding lectures from anyone or any group devoid of moral competence.'” Wonder if this bishop could head the USCCB?
