On May 22 the people of Ireland will vote in a referendum that if approved will allow same-sex “marriage”.
On Tuesday the Irish bishops published a statement urging people to reflect seriously when they decide how to vote.
“We ask the people of Ireland to consider very carefully the profound implications which this constitutional amendment would have on the family environment and on our understanding of parenthood.”
The bishops stated that they respected the views of those who different positions on this issue, but they also asked that their views will be heard and respected.
“We come to this debate believing that the union of a man and a woman in marriage, open to the procreation of children, is a gift from God who created us ‘male and female’”, the statement declared.
“Mothers and fathers bring different, yet complementary gifts and strengths into a child’s life,” they added.
“We cannot support an amendment to the Constitution which redefines marriage and effectively places the union of two men, or two women, on a par with the marriage relationship between a husband and wife which is open to the procreation of children,” the bishops insisted.
If same-sex “marriage” were approved then, the statement asked, what will happen about the ability to speak in public about marriage being between a man and a woman?
What will children be taught in schools? And will people who in conscience believe that marriage is only valid between a man and a woman be obliged to act against their beliefs?
“The effects of this proposed amendment will be far-reaching for this and for future generations. We say to all voters: Marriage is important – Reflect before you change it,” the statement concluded.
— — —
On the NET:
Full text of statement – http://www.catholicbishops.ie/2015/03/10/marriage-important-reflect-change-it/
