Ill reiterate my position in as clear and simple terms as i can make, according to my own understanding of the subject.
Marriage, has two aspects.
- Spiritual and religious. I see this as a matter of Church.
- Legal "stuff" (one legal entity, certificate, etc etc). I see this as a matter of State.
Two separate issue. As should be patently obvious, I am a firm believer in the separation between church and state. I am firmly against, the state enacting changes to religion via legislation or more importantly, vice versa. The state should stay out of matters of faith, and the Church should stay out of matters of the state.
Now, If a church decides that within it's own strictures, dogma, rules, what have you, that gay marriage is permissible, then that is that church's decision. Likewise, if a church decides that gay marriage is not permissible to that faith, then that too, is that church's decision. If a gay couple want to get married, and their religion isn't permissible to it; then that is a spiritual and religious matter between that gay couple, their faith, and their church leadership. I think It is wrong to go to the government, and try and get the state to intervene on this matter. This is not a matter of the state. It is a matter of church.
To sum, I am not for or against Gay marriage. In fact, i honestly do not care what gays do or don't do. My view is simply a pragmatic one.
- On the legal aspects of marriage, i think gay couples should be afforded all the benefits and perks that are afforded to anyone else. This is a matter of state, and as such should be impartial , unbiased and fair.
- On the spiritual aspect of marriage, I think that is a Church matter. Being a member of any church is voluntary, and is privy to belief and faith, as such, should not be legislated.
As it happens, most faiths don't see gay marriage in a favorable light. But that is not my problem as I am neither a member of a church, nor gay. I would be equally indifferent if most faiths were permissible of gay marriage. What others want to do in their pursuit of life, liberty and happiness is none of my concern.
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