The majority of our blog posts usually focus on Jacob's adventures or the joys/pains of parenthood. This post is significantly more "grown-up" than our usual topics. We hope that sharing our thoughts will give you something to think about.
For California voters, like us, the upcoming ballot includes not only a chance to vote for a Presidential candidate, but also the chance to weigh-in on Proposition 8. This is a proposed amendment to the state constitution that would define legally recognized marriage as only between a man and a woman.
We have learned about this proposed amendment, and wish to share some of the information that we have found helpful in understanding the issue and deciding where we stand.
The Divine Institution of Marriage
The Family: A Proclamation to the World
We believe that strong families form the foundation for a strong society. We also believe that God defined marriage as between a man and a woman. Because of these beliefs we support Proposition 8.
This issue encompasses individual rights and freedom of religion. In some cases involving a clash between the individual rights of same-sex couples and freedom of religion, the courts (in states that recognize same-sex marriage) have tended to find in favor of the individual rights of the couple over the free exercise of religion. For example, Catholic adoption agencies in Massachusetts ceased operations after the courts mandated that they serve same-sex couples just as they served heterosexual couples. We believe that the free exercise of religion is one of America's greatest strengths, and that limiting this freedom will do a great disservice to our country.
This Proposition does not limit rights already established in CA such as fair housing, hospitalization, and others. It is specifically focused on the definition of marriage. We understand that this issue effects many of our friends and their families in different ways. We are committed to loving, serving, and respecting each of God's children, regardless of lifestyle choices. Therefore, we support this measure because we believe it is necessary to defend the sacred institution of marriage, not because we have any ill will towards a certain group of people.
We hope that sharing our view, has helped you to think about yours. Thank you for letting us share with you.
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4 comments:
Hey, I really liked reading that. Glad you guys are so informed - at least there are 2 more responsible voters that I know! Em
Thanks for the good insights! Definitely made me stop and think. come visit (subliminal msg :)
"Tolerance" of alternative lifestyles doesn't seem to be in abundance here in Louisiana, so it's no surprise we haven't heard anything about proposition 8:) Thanks for being advocates!
Great post. I love the way you expressed your feelings. Hope enough of the other voters in Cali come to same conclusions...
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