Nov. 16, 2009
Bishop Paul V. Marshall
To Clergy of the Diocese of Bethlehem
Bishop Paul V. Marshall
To Clergy of the Diocese of Bethlehem
In accordance with General Convention 2009 observation that that “the discernment of The Episcopal Church is that there are no theological barriers to blessing … same-sex relationships that are based on love, fidelity and lifelong commitment …” I offer the following interim measures ...
Download below "Pastoral Provision for Same-Sex Couples" issued by Bishop Paul Marshall.
Thank you Bishop Paul for doing what I believe is correct for our diocese. I once heard you say 'Whoever you are, you are welcome here, and we mean that'. Jesus would have meant it also, I believe, as One Who is inclusive with His Love. God's Love is not bound by race, creed, gender, or anything else. I am proud to be a member of the Episcopal Church of the United States, and the Diocese of Bethlehem, for extending that Love to all.
Posted by: Pat VanderVeen | November 21, 2009 at 08:16 PM
So is Blaise going to become a Christian again?
Posted by: Pat Smith | November 20, 2009 at 11:07 PM
Bishop Marshall, you are truly a man of spiritual discernment and quality. I am a gay man in a committed relationship, a registered civil union in the state of Washington. I abandoned Christianity many years ago because I just cannot believe that Christ could hate me and deprive me of human respect and equality the way Christianity seems intent on doing. I thank you, as a former Episcopalian, to know that love exists somewhere in this faith. For myself and my partner, we simply believe that God will receive us in eternal life and bless us there.
Posted by: Blaise Gartland | November 17, 2009 at 10:27 PM