Bishop's Letter re Same-Sex 'Marriage' 2003

Brothers and sisters in Christ,

Throughout the summer months, we have all heard the sometimes vociferous opinions of those for and against the proposed Federal legislation to modify the definition of marriage as we have known it, in order to permit persons of the same sex to be "married".

Since many of the faithful of this diocese have communicated with my office, seeking to better understand the Bishop's point of view on this matter, I would like to take this opportunity to share some reflections with you so that you may form your own opinion on this issue and take a stand in the light of the teachings of the Church, conscious of the legacy which you wish to leave for future generations. I would encourage you to make your informed opinion known to your elected representatives.

The Pope recently reminded all Christians of the importance of having an "adult" faith in order to avoid the danger of living as if God did not exist. "The world today", he said, "requires the presence of Catholics who are adult in their faith, and Christian missionary communities who testify to God's love before all mankind" (Ecclesia in Europa, 50).

At first glance, it may seem to some that changing the definition of marriage may not be something of great importance. Others may think that we are making "mountains out of molehills" and that this is simply a play on words, but be careful; there is much more to this issue.

Historically, marriage has been an integral part of human tradition for centuries, not only in the Catholic Church but in all religious traditions. It is equally as important that we consider the issues hidden in this legislation and the effect that they could have on our society.

Throughout her history, the Church has always promoted the unique role of marriage and family. These are the foundations of a healthy and balanced society. The stronger the marriage and family, the stronger society will be.

You know as well as I do that, in the Church, the foundation of marriage lies primarily on the loving relationship between a man and a woman, which will generally lead to the birth of children who will be raised and educated in the environment which provides them with the best possible climate for their fulfillment.

This is still true today and can be easily verified : we know very well that the experience lived daily by many reconstituted families, as praiseworthy as it may be, shows the importance of the biological father and mother in the social and emotional development of children.

If our society believes that children should be our priority, it goes without saying that everything possible should be done to preserve the family unit. As Catholics, marriage and family constitute important dimensions of the fabric of society and of our faith. As the Holy Father has said, "the family is the first school of social virtues that every society needs."

Even though we uphold the meaning of marriage as defined through the centuries, our reflection should not lead us to denigrate those who oppose us. We Catholics have always had a deep respect for the person. Our position in this debate is that there cannot be marriage without the lifelong union of a man and a woman in mutual fidelity to assure the continuity of human life and the diversity of gifts for the raising of children.

If, in the light of what I have shared with you, you have come to a clearer understanding in support of the Church's position, I strongly encourage you to make your opinion known to your elected Federal representatives who in turn should show their real colours while being coherent with the faith which inspires them.

As in the past, Jesus still invites us today to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth (cf. Acts 1,8). Let us be authentic witnesses! Let us not be afraid, as Christians, to share our informed opinions and to convince our members of Parliament and our compatriots that our country will be better-served if we uphold and reinforce the notion of marriage as it has existed until now.

Let us remain united in prayer that our contribution to this public debate will reflect the truth and compassion of God.

Yours sincerely in Christ,
+Jean-Louis Plouffe
Bishop of Sault Ste. Marie

Sudbury, ON
August 29, 2003
Memorial of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist, martyr