c. 2008 Religion News Service
Calif. Episcopal bishops oppose gay marriage ban
(RNS) Episcopal bishops from all six California dioceses are urging voters to defeat a state referendum that would outlaw gay marriage this November.
“We do not believe that marriage of heterosexuals is threatened by same-sex marriage,” nine bishops said in a joint statement Wednesday (Sept. 10). “Rather, the Christian values of monogamy, commitment, love, mutual respect … are enhanced for all by providing this right to gay and straight alike.”
Californians will vote Nov. 4 on Proposition 8, which would amend the state constitution to reserve marriage for heterosexual couples. In May, the state supreme court overturned a voter-approved ban on gay marriage.
Other religious groups, including Catholics, evangelicals, Hindus and Muslims, are advocating for the referendum.
The bishops acknowledged that there is no consensus in the 2.2-million member Episcopal Church on gay marriage. The diocese of San Joaquin, Calif., seceded from the Episcopal Church last year in protest of the church’s growing liberalism, particularly on sexuality.
Bishop Jerry Lamb, the provisional bishop who was installed by Episcopal Church leaders to lead the San Joaquin diocese, joined in signing the statement.
Even among the nine California bishops there is disagreement: some want authorize clergy to officiate and bless same-sex marriages, while others want to wait for churchwide approval. In 2006, the Episcopal Church voted to oppose federal or state amendments that would prohibit same-sex marriage or civil unions.
Anglicans worldwide _ the Episcopal Church is the U.S. branch of the Anglican Communion _ generally oppose homosexuality on biblical grounds. At an international summit this summer, Anglican bishops asked churches to honor a moratorium on public rites for same-sex blessings.
Bishop J. Jon Bruno of Los Angeles, said the California bishops “believe that continued access to civil marriage for all, regardless of sexual orientation … promotes Jesus’ ethic of love, giving and hope.”
_ Daniel Burke
McCartney returns to lead Promise Keepers
(RNS) Promise Keepers co-founder Bill McCartney has returned to his position as chairman and CEO of the Christian men’s ministry, the organization announced Wednesday (Sept. 10).
Raleigh Washington, a former executive of the Denver-based ministry and current board member, will return as president.
McCartney, 68, resigned in 2003 to care for his ill wife.
Lyndi McCartney is “still ailing but in complete accord” with McCartney’s decision to return, general counsel Ed O’Brien told the Rocky Mountain News.
Tom Fortson left as president and CEO during the first weekend of September. His resignation was voluntary, O’Brien said.
McCartney, a former University of Colorado football coach, helped found the ministry in 1990.
At its height, the men’s ministry brought tens of thousands of men to the National Mall in 1997 to commit to God and family. Since that time, it has faced layoffs at his headquarters and declining attendance at regional events.
After he left Promise Keepers, McCartney started a “Road to Jerusalem” ministry that focuses on Jews who believe Jesus is the Messiah.
_ Adelle M. Banks
Quote of the Day: National Baptist Convention USA leader William J. Shaw
(RNS) “We do not call the senator and his wife Jesus, but in his candidacy, the hopes of generations are finding expression. And in that same candidacy, the fears of many are finding fresh life. But it is our prayer always, that hope overrides fear.”
_ The Rev. William J. Shaw, president of the National Baptist Convention, USA, speaking at his denomination’s annual session in Cincinnati on Wednesday (Sept. 10), when Michelle Obama addressed the meeting. He was quoted by the Dayton Daily News.
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