ANGLICAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
Diocese of the Northeast
Rt. Rev. Brian Marsh, Bishop

Presiding Bishop's Message Regarding the Supreme Court's Decision on Marriage

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Many of us have been disappointed by the Supreme Court's decision to permit same-sex marriage in all fifty states and territories. We can only regard this as a secular response to an issue that has no bearing on the sacramental nature of Christian marriage. Entering into partnerships may well be a legal option for people who wish to join together for business purposes or to otherwise further secular interests through a partnership. However, such partnerships cannot be regarded as marriage in the Christian understanding of marriage.

While we may lament the action of the Supreme Court, we must understand that the narrow definition they employed to make the decision has no bearing on the Biblical definition of Christian marriage. We issued a statement about Christian marriage in 2012. That statement, which is prominently displayed on our website, fully expresses the position of the Anglican Church in America regarding Christian marriage.

Christian marriage, as stated clearly in The Book of Common Prayer is "...an honourable estate, instituted of God..., which holy estate Christ adorned and beautified with his presence and first miracle that he wrought in Cana of Galilee..." Christian marriage, as instituted by God, is between one man and one woman. We hold to the truth of this. As people of God, we are called to do so.. We offer our prayers for all who may be affected by this decision. We also offer our prayers for all who are made in God's image and will continue to minister faithfully to all people. We know as well that the God of our creation will indeed make all things well.

Your Brother in Christ,

+Brian