We, the Vestry of the Episcopal Church of the Advocate, deplore the decision of the North Carolina General Assembly to place a so-called “Defense of Marriage†constitutional amendment on the ballot next May.
We find their action to be offensive, not only to the many North Carolinians who are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, but also to the families, friends, co-workers and faith communities of these our brothers and sisters.
Legislators have appealed to a particular understanding of biblical authority and Christian teaching to justify their attack on domestic partnerships, the rights of employers to extend benefits to employees and the rights of religious communities to encourage and recognize loving and committed relationships. We reject their pretense of speaking for all Christians. They do not speak for us, and this amendment does not reflect our understanding of the Gospel and of a loving and compassionate God, who graces families of all kinds with covenantal love.
Therefore, we encourage the members of the Episcopal Church of the Advocate, and all who seek to live in the light of the Gospel, to make no peace with oppression. Instead, we urge them to do everything in their power to work, organize, contribute and vote for the defeat of this misnamed and misguided amendment.
The Vestry of the Episcopal Church of the Advocate
Chapel Hill