Friday August 1, 2003
Reactions to the Vatican Document on Homosexual Unions by Canadian Politicians
OTTAWA, August 1, 2003 (LifeSiteNews.com) - Canadian Catholic politicians have given reactions to the Vatican's document on homosexual unions issued yesterday, and also to the fact that Canadian bishops have been speaking out on the issue as never before.
Speaking of Bishop Henry's pastoral warning to Prime Minister Chretien That "He's putting at risk his eternal salvation", Liberal MP Sheila Copps, who has used her profession of the Catholic faith during her political campaigns, said she was appalled. "Every Canadian, regardless of their religion, has to reconcile their beliefs with their god, their Allah, their guru, that's why we live in a country that separates the views of religion
from the views of the state. I don't think the position that the prime minister is taking should subject him to the wrath of a religious leader who has a perspective. It's a perspective that clearly, in certain cases, does not embrace equality."
Copps, Minister of Canadian Heritage and a contender for the Liberal leadership, is on record saying, "I can say unequivocally that I support Gay Marriage . Well, the right of same-sex couples to marry is a critical issue for me because it is a fundamental issue of human rights." Catholics are encouraged to ask Copps' Bishop to address her on this issue. (see contact info below)
Thoren Hudyma, a spokesman for Catholic Prime Minister Jean Chretien said on the Vatican document, "We all know that the Prime Minister is a Roman Catholic, it's common knowledge. It's also common knowledge that the Prime Minister has said on several occasions that it is important that there is a division between the church and state. The position of the government of Canada has been made clear several times and it really is important that the government of Canada protects the equality of all Canadians."
The view of Justice Minister Martin Cauchon, also a Catholic, was revealed by spokesman Tim Murphy who said, "His personal religious beliefs are not the issue here. He is the Justice Minister for all Canadians. The key things we have pointed out is that this is a fundamental issue of equality and there will be protection for religious freedom."
Tory Party Leader Peter MacKay said of the document: "It's a fairly blunt, straightforward message that the Pope and the Vatican are sending. It's becoming increasingly polarized. I know that many [MPs] are hearing from their constituents on this." Speaking of Bishop Henry's comments, MacKay said it was "quite inflammatory language." But, he added, "I understand the depth of people's reaction to this."
Contact:
Hamilton Bishop
Most Reverend Anthony F. Tonnos
c/o Secretary Merry Glover
See related media coverage:
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Politics/2003/07/31/150704-cp.html
http://www.nationalpost.com/home/story.html?id=C88787AF-BCDC-4DA3-83CA-F55016D44CE1
http://www.canada.com/ottawa/news/story.asp?id=9BBF1C6E-E103-4A77-BD2E-D92B6E5E27EB
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