A Statement in Response to the Ruling by Judge Bernard Friedman

Overturning Michigan's Ban on Same-Sex Marriages

In 2005, the General Synod of the United Church of Christ adopted the "Equal Marriage Rights for All" resolution at its biennial gathering in Atlanta, Georgia. That resolution affirmed equal marriage rights for couples regardless of gender; called for an end to rhetoric that fueled hostility and hatred expressed toward gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons; called upon congregations to engage in respectful and prayerful discussion about equal marriage rights; and urged congregations and individuals of the United Church of Christ to prayerfully consider and support legislation to grant equal marriage rights, and to work against legislation, including constitutional amendments, which denied civil marriage rights to couples based on gender.

Adopting the equal marriage resolution was not without cost as some churches voted to leave the denomination. However, that vote also steeled the United Church of Christ with a new courage and conviction to continue our work on behalf of civil rights; and it helped bring into sharp focus one of our core values: "No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here."

Therefore, I applaud Judge Friedman's ruling overturning Michigan's ban on same-sex marriage, and I celebrate with all same gender loving couples whose relationships move a step closer to being legally recognized. I'm also thankful for many of our clergy who shared a bold witness on behalf of civil rights by signing marriage licenses for those who have been waiting for years to have their committed relationships recognized by the state.

Since Judge Friedman's ruling will now continue to get played out in the courts - and in our communities, I invite us all to remember a portion of the prayer offered by John Thomas, our former General Minister and President, in 2005 immediately following the vote on the Equal Marriage Rights for All resolution:

"Remind us that as we are tempted to run from each other, so too we run from you. We know that every choice confers a cost... Let us find words that comfort rather than congratulate; let us seek to be a community of grace and forgiveness rather than organizing constituencies of protest, let us use our hands not to clap, but to wipe away every tear....This is our prayer. Hear us, Lord Jesus. Amen."

Campbell Lovett

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