Previous Bulletin
Statement on "Same-sex Marriage"
by Archbishop Anthony G. Meagher
This week's Bulletin is unavoidably delayed.
Statement on "Same-sex Marriage"
by Archbishop Anthony G. Meagher"That is why a man leaves his father and mother
and is united with his wife,
and they become one."
(Genesis 2:24)I write these notes on the issue of same-sex marriage to address not only the legislation soon to be put before Parliament, but also the topic of marriage in a more general sense. I will do this in the following way: first, look briefly at the legislation that is likely to be proposed within the next few weeks; offer some comments about same-sex relationships; articulate something of the Church’s understanding of the sacrament of marriage; and, finally, indicate the ways in which, as Archbishop, I hope to provide opportunities for married couples to further enrich their own marital covenant.
As I understand it, if the legislation that will be placed before the Parliament of Canada is defeated, it may not have the effect of reversing the decisions of the courts in those provinces in which same-sex marriage is now permitted. In these provinces, including Ontario, the status quo may very well remain; and it may well be that additional provinces will permit same-sex marriage in the future. On the other hand, if the legislation is approved and becomes law, same-sex marriages will be permitted in all provinces and territories. It is important, I believe, to understand this reality, so that unrealistic expectations are not raised.
As Roman Catholics who are citizens of Canada, we respect the right of all people to follow their conscience on moral issues. Although we believe that same-sex sexual relationships are immoral, we respect the freedom of others who may not hold these beliefs. If the Government believes it has no choice but to acknowledge such unions, legislation could be drafted which would protect the rights and benefits of two men or two women who choose to enter into such a relationship without encouraging these relationships by equating them with marriage. On the other hand, if the Government’s intention is not only to ensure rights and benefits, but also to change the fundamental meaning of the word "marriage", I think the Prime Minister should be honest enough to admit this.
At the same time, any legislation envisioned by the Government should assure all faiths that they will not be required to perform wedding ceremonies contrary to their creed. It must recognize the right of a religious tradition to worship and act in accordance with the tenets of its creed, and ensure that proper protection is provided.
For a great many Canadians and for us as Catholics, the word "marriage" has come to define the union of a man and a woman, a commitment made to each other exclusively and for life. This relationship anticipates the welcoming of children to this family, bonded by the marriage of the husband and wife. The health and stability of marriage contribute tremendously to the benefit of the whole society, and, therefore, societies have done their best to nourish and protect it. Any attempt to extend the meaning of the word "marriage" to include same-sex relationships would be to change the essential meaning of the word. We have a responsibility to protect every aspect of the uniqueness, and indeed sacredness, of marriage that our culture has held dear for so many years. We are not simply arguing about the meaning of a word. Marriage has a fuller meaning and context than can be realized in a same-sex relationship, and any legislation should recognize that reality.
On the home front, we can use the occasion of this debate to do what is positive ourselves. For this reason, I commit this Archdiocese to an active plan of encouraging and supporting marriage and young married couples. I am requesting that marriage preparation programs be enriched throughout the Archdiocese, and that the sacredness and the meaning of marriage be explored at the senior level of high school. I recommend that Marriage Encounter, the Retrouvaille Program, and similar supports to marriage be actively encouraged and promoted. Furthermore, I am resolved to commit the resources needed to help these things happen. I believe it is in this way that the integrity of marriage will best be ensured in our Archdiocese, in our country, and in our culture.