Gay Marriage, States, and the Church
In states with gay marriage on the ballot, churches and community organizations have an opportunity to reflect love in midst of political differences, says faith-based website, followme.org.
“The Christian Church cannot afford to remain silent in the debate on gay marriage; however, the Church’s tone is as important as its political viewpoint,” says faith-based website, followme.org.
That statement came today as voters in four states enter the final week before a contentious November 6 election in which they will decide the future of gay marriage in their respective states: Minnesota, Washington, Maine, and Maryland.
As these ballot initiatives draw in celebrity endorsements, engage presidential candidates, and spur public demonstrations around the country, the New York Times reported Wednesday that each initiative remains hotly contested. In Maine, voters will choose whether or not to allow the state to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, the New York Times reported.
In Washington State and Maryland, voters will choose whether or not to overturn existing laws recognizing same-sex marriages. Meanwhile, Minnesota voters will choose whether or not to amend the state constitution to define marriage as solely between one man and one woman, according to the New York Times.
The Minnesota ballot measure has attracted national attention as donors on both sides have contributed over $18 million to election efforts among voters, according to a Minneapolis Star-Tribune report from Wednesday. Out-of-state donors include Mayor of New York, Michael Bloomberg, the Human Rights Campaign, and the Catholic Church, according to the Star-Tribune report.
But what is the proper role of the Christian Church when it comes to these controversial ballot initiatives? Followme.org is a faith-based website that provides resources on the definition of marriage. Its leaders suggest that the Church “double-check” its tone when discussing this emotional issue.
“The Church, no doubt, has an interest in state laws on gay marriage. It is important that churches and community organizations remain relevant when it comes to pressing social issues. Still, Jesus’ command to ‘love one another’ does not come with an exception clause for politics. Preserving a tone of love, compassion, and empathy is as important as speaking our piece on the issue of same-sex marriage,” said Pastor Jamie of followme.org.
“Local churches are more readily known for what they stand against than what they stand for. The issue of gay marriage is a major ministry opportunity—a chance to break down that perception,” he said.
For more information, please visit www.followme.org.
Photo By Kurt Löwenstein Educational Center International Team from Germany (qe07 (9)) [CC-BY-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
