WASHINGTON, November 13, 2003 (LifeSiteNews.com) – The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops voted 243-3 at their meeting yesterday to approve a document addressing the same-sex unions debate. The statement, “Between Man and Woman: Questions and Answers About Marriage and Same-Sex Unions,” stresses that “Christians must give witness to the whole moral truth, and oppose as immoral both homosexual acts and unjust discrimination against homosexual persons.”
The document points out that it is not unjust to deny marriage to homosexual couples, “in fact”, say the Bishops, “justice requires society to . . . deny legal status to same-sex unions because marriage and same-sex unions are essentially different.”
Regarding marriage-like benefits to homosexual couples, the Bishops indicate that “The state has an obligation to promote the family, which is rooted in marriage. Therefore, it can justly give married couples rights and benefits it does not extend to others.” Adding that: “Some benefits currently sought by persons in homosexual unions can already be obtained without regard to marital status. For example, individuals can agree to own property jointly with another, and they can generally designate anyone they choose to be a beneficiary of their will or to make health care decisions in case they become incompetent.” The bishops also note the central importance of Christians acting on their faith in regard to protecting marriage by their political actions. “There is to be no separation between one’s faith and life in either public or private realms. By their voice and their vote, they should contribute to society’s welfare and test its public life by the standards of right reason and Gospel truth. Responsible citizenship is a virtue. Participation in the political process is a moral obligation. This is particularly urgent in light of the need to defend marriage and to oppose the legalization of same-sex unions as marriages.” See the full bishop’s statement online at: https://www.usccb.org/laity/manandwoman.htm