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New Mexico’s three Roman Catholic bishops, responding to the national debate on same-sex marriage, are emphasizing their opposition, saying that marriage is “a lifelong bond between one man and one woman.”
“Protecting the institution of marriage from new definitions, we believe, guards this institution which is unique and irreplaceable,” according to a statement released by the bishops.
The bishops rejected the idea that same-sex marriage is a civil right, while acknowledging “tragic instances of discrimination, hatred, and even violence against people with same-sex attraction.”
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To view the Catholic bishops’ statement on marriage, go to www.archdiocesesantafe.org |
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“We call for peace, tolerance, and understanding in these cases,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, Republican Gov. Susana Martinez recently reiterated her own opposition to same-sex marriage and domestic partnerships.
National attention has been focused on the issue of same-sex marriage as the U.S. Supreme Court last week heard cases questioning the constitutionality of the federal Defense of Marriage Act and California’s Proposition 8, which bans gay marriage.
Archbishop of Santa Fe Michael Sheehan, Diocese of Gallup Bishop James S. Wall and Diocese of Las Cruces Bishop Oscar Cantú in their statement said they recognize the rights of gay people “to live in peace and tranquility, without fearing violence.”
But defining same-sex marriage as a civil right “would infringe upon other important rights such as the right of children to a mother and father as well as the right to religious freedom,” the bishops wrote.
The issue of same-sex marriage is “qualitatively different” from civil rights issues, the bishops said.
“Racial difference or sameness was never an essential factor for marriage; on the other hand, sexual difference is an essential component of marriage.”
Martinez, before she was elected governor in 2010, said she opposed same-sex marriage and domestic partnerships. In an interview last week, Martinez said that stance hasn’t changed.
“It’s my belief that marriage is between a man and a woman,” the governor said. “There should be no other discrimination in reference to jobs, where they live, the ability and power to be able to say – just like you can for your sibling – ‘if I am incapable of making medical decisions for myself, I give the power and right for this individual to make those decisions.’”
Martinez said despite her views, New Mexico will uphold any ruling by the Supreme Court on the issue.
“Certainly we’re going to wait to see what the Supreme Court decides, and it will be the law of the land, however they decide,” Martinez said. “I have a duty to enforce that and to make sure that we follow the law, and we’ll wait and see what they have to say.”
The Episcopal Rio Grande Diocese recently announced changes that allow priests to bless same-sex relationships.
Bishop Michael Vono announced an official liturgy in January that allows Episcopal priests in New Mexico to bless same-sex couples without recognizing the relationship as a marriage.
