- Media Release -

Christians for Marriage Equality Welcomes Select Committee Report

The national network Christians for Marriage Equality welcomes the Report of the Government and Administration Select Committee on the Marriage (Definition of Marriage) Amendment Bill.

Christians for Marriage Equality believes that the Committee balanced the concerns of the range of religious submitters and made it clear that the Bill will not diminish the freedom of religion of those who oppose it.

It also addresses the current situation in which churches that would like to treat gay and lesbian couples, and transgender persons, equally are not able to do so.

The Select Committee report says of religious supporters: “Other people with religious convictions argue that marriage is foremost about celebrating the love shared between two people, and that their inability to marry same-sex couples constitutes a constraint on their freedom to practice their religion.”

Christians for Marriage Equality spokesperson, Rev Dr Margaret Mayman, is delighted that the Select Committee has recognised this aspect of religious freedom.

She said, “We believe that discriminating against some couples is morally wrong and that our faith requires an ethic of inclusiveness and hospitality.

“Marriage has a complex history and multiple meanings in religion and society. It has evolved through time to become a commitment between two people who love each other. And now that marriage is not determined by procreation, property transfer, or gender inequality, but by love, friendship, compassion and commitment, there is no reason to exclude people on the basis of sex, sexual orientation or gender identity.”

Christians for Marriage Equality also supports the Committee’s proposed amendment to make it clear that religious organisations which hold the view that marriage should only be between a man and a woman would not be required to marry same-sex couples, but hopes for a day when all people of faith will embrace gay and lesbian couples and their families.

ENDS

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