Churches can speak out on same-sex marriage legislation
February 2, 2005
Many Christian leaders may be wondering if speaking out on Bill C-38 Civil Marriage Act would be considered political activity.
Churches and denominations may speak out on the issue of marriage. This is not political activity but charitable activity because it is in pursuit of your charitable purposes. Other ministries will have to examine their charitable purposes to determine if they too may speak out. Advocacy on issues of morals and ethics is central to the purpose of churches and denominations.
Rex Murphy, a CBC reporter, said it well last night: “...the separation of church and state is not quite the beautiful invention he thinks it is, if indeed he thinks it means that churches are forestalled from commenting on or attempting to influence the course of debate on a subject they perceive as affecting the moral life of their parishioners. In fact, and this will startle Mr. Pettigrew, they have no choice but to speak. It is their churchly duty.” The whole opinion piece may be read at http://www.cbc.ca/national/rex/rex_050201.html.
Communication should be made to at least the Prime Minister and your local Member of Parliament. As always, positions should be supported by well-reasoned arguments. Information about who the Members of Parliament are and how to contact them may be found at http://www.parl.gc.ca/common/index.asp?Language=E&Parl=38&ses=1. Letters are more effective than e-mail and can be sent to Members of Parliament without postage.
