Primate of Ireland: We must continue to be advocates of Christian vision of marriage
Archbishop Eamon Martin says Irish Catholics have “much to reflect on” following the same-sex marriage referendum.
The Archbishop said at Mass this Sunday that the Church also has much to learn.
He said: “Among the many lessons that we as Church can learn from the referendum debate is to re-commit ourselves to the pastoral care of anyone in society who experiences victimisation and stigmatisation.
“We earnestly want to find ways of reaching out pastorally to different kinds of families and relationships while at the same time continuing to be advocates for a Christian vision of marriage and for the unique and fundamental contribution to society of the family founded upon the love and marriage of a man and a woman.
“[I wish] to affirm those who spoke up courageously and chose to vote in support of the unique union of marriage between a man and a woman and the dignity of difference between male and female.
“It is clear from the reaction to the referendum result that many people voted in favour of the amendment believing it to be a way of showing tolerance and respect towards gay people, including family members and friends.”
Archbishop Martin has previously said the Christians were being “persecuted” over same-sex marriage. He said in April: “The pressure on us to conform, to become just like everyone else is often immense and overpowering.
“Sometimes daring to witness openly to our sincerely held Christian convictions can bring upon us ridicule, condemnation or even persecution.”
The archbishop’s predecessor was forced to resign over his role in covering up child abuse conducted within the church.
