Just Say No", Says the State of NJ Over Clerics Blessing Gay Marriages
(AXcess News) New York - The State of New Jersey has said its ok for clerics to turn their back on gay marriages, saying they do not have to bless same-sex marriage ceremonies if they don't want to.New Jersey's Attorney General Stuart Rabner ruled Thursday that clergy who oppose civil unions for gay couples will not be forced to perform the ceremonies.
Beginning February 19th, same-sex couples can legally apply for a license in the State of New Jersey for civil unions, but Rabner ruled that if members of the clergy feel that conducting ceremonies for same-sex couples would fly in the face of their religious beliefs, then religious leaders can legally refuse to conduct wedding ceremonies.
By the Attorney General's ruling, Rabner has created a way for clerics to avoid being sued, considering the aggressive legal stance gay organizations have taken in pursuing their rights as to what is now considered a minority - being gay.
Under New Jersey's antidiscrimination law, public officials who choose to officiate at weddings must also perform civil unions. But Rabner ruled that members of the clergy could not be forced to perform ceremonies.
By Staff
posted by iamgay @ 8:41 PM
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home