Christian Ministers Happy to Marry Same-Sex Couples

Christian ministers who will marry same-sex couples are being profiled on a new website.  The website, yes2love.wordpress.com, was launched today by Wellington Presbyterian church-goer Fionnaigh McKenzie.

Ms McKenzie says she wanted to celebrate faith that is accepting and welcoming.

“I was tired of reading headlines about churches saying ‘no’ to same-sex couples. I know that many ministers and churches are saying ‘yes’, so I decided to gather details about them. I am Presbyterian, and while there are a range of views within the Presbyterian church, there are many ministers who are committed to justice and equality.”

The website profiles ministers who have agreed to officiate at same-sex weddings and churches which welcome same-sex weddings.  Ms. McKenzie hopes that the website will be useful for couples looking for a celebrant who will incorporate religious or spiritual elements into a wedding service.

“My partner and I had a ceremony in our church to celebrate our love. It was very moving to feel the support of our church community wrap around us that day. I want other couples to know that whatever their sexuality or gender identity might be, they can have a spiritual ceremony if they want to.”

Some ministers have decided to become independent marriage celebrants so that if their denomination bans same-sex weddings they will still be able to officiate at them.

One Minister profiled on the site, Rev. Norman Wilkins says that as a registered civil celebrant he is completely free to marry same-sex couples.

“I firmly believe that treating everyone equally and lovingly is what Jesus would have done and is fundamentally what is just. I will not have a prejudiced church interfere with anyone's right to incorporate their faith into their marriage,” Rev. Wilkins said.  

So far the site lists 23 ministers and 3 churches. Ms. McKenzie looks forward to hearing from more church leaders and leaders from other religious traditions as word spreads about the website.

ENDS

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