Santa Fe, N.M., Feb 12, 2010 / 05:14 am
The bishops of New Mexico have voiced opposition to a bill in the state legislature that would create domestic partnerships for opposite- and same-sex couples, saying it would undermine the “true nature” of marriage and would serve as a foundation for the implementation of same-sex “marriage.”
Last week the bill passed the Senate Judiciary and Senate Public Affairs Committee. It needed to pass the Senate Finance Committee before heading for a full vote, KFOXTV.com reports.
In a January statement, the New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops (NMCCB) said they cannot support the proposal because of “ethical concerns.” They said the language could serve as a “stepping stone” for a state court’s future approval of same-sex marriage.
Citing Jesus’ words about how a man and woman become “one flesh,” they emphasized the unique nature of marriage as a “permanent bond” between man and woman that is “naturally ordered” towards authentic union and new life.
They also voiced concerns that the bill would lead to the teaching of homosexuality in public schools and would affect religious freedom.
The bishops’ statement made clear they oppose any unjust discrimination and “emphatically” condemn hate crimes directed at anyone, including those of homosexual orientation.
Catholic News Agency contacted the NMCCB for further comment but did not receive a response by publication time.