Reverend Michael Gray, the lead signer on the petition that put marriage back on the ballot and a vocal supporter is featured in a new ad (below) that was released last week, as well as taking to the the opinion page of the Portland Press Herald. In the letter he makes the point that real religious freedom is protected by approving marriage in November.
Here's the ad with Rev. Gray and his wife:...Despite assertions made by columnist M.D. Harmon ("Religious groups overwhelmingly oppose same-sex marriage," Sept. 14), religious freedom means that all churches -- and not just some churches -- should be free to make their own decisions in regards to solemnizing marriages between same-sex couples.
In Maine, there are more than 75 congregations -- including more than 400 pastors, rabbis and lay leaders -- who support the freedom to marry.
I am among that group. I'm the pastor of Old Orchard Beach United Methodist Church.
I got involved in this issue after prayerful consideration. My faith informs me, first and foremost, that God is love, and that we should do all we can to treat others as we ourselves would hope to be treated. For me, that means supporting the ability of all loving, committed couples to marry...
...The citizens initiative ensures that churches, clergy, religious institutions and denomination cannot be required to host or perform any wedding that falls outside of their beliefs. It also guarantees that no church or religious institution could be sued for declining to host or perform a ceremony. [read the full letter here]
