ARIZONA CATHOLIC BISHOPS’ STATEMENT ON DECISION OVERTURNING MARRIAGE AMENDMENT
October 17, 2014
A recent court ruling has overturned Arizona’s law defining marriage as the union of a man and a woman. Today’s action overturns the will of Arizona voters and reflects a misunderstanding of the institution of marriage.
For centuries, marriage has been recognized as the lifelong union of a man and a woman that benefits the common good by respecting the unique and complementary gifts of both a mother and a father in the lives of children. As Catholic bishops, we remain committed to affirming the truth about marriage and its goodness for all of society.
We also want to reiterate our pastoral concern for all people, including our brothers and sisters with same-sex attraction, and denounce any unjust discrimination toward anyone.
It is our fervent hope that the Supreme Court will eventually reconsider the issue of marriage in the future. In the meantime, we pray that the Church may continue to serve as a loving and joyful witness of the truth about the family and human sexuality.
Most Rev. Eduardo A. Nevares
Auxiliary Bishop of Phoenix
Most Rev. Thomas J. Olmsted
Bishop of Phoenix
Most Rev. James S. Wall
Bishop of Gallup
Most Rev. Gerald F. Kicanas
Bishop of Tucson
Most Rev. Gerald Dino
Bishop of Holy Protection of Mary Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Phoenix
To view statement as a PDF CLICK HERE
To view Spanish version as a PDF CLICK HERE.