Catholic Priest Argues Against Minnesota Gay Marriage Ban
Minnesota priest Bob Pierson spoke out passionately on Sunday against Minnesota's proposed marriage inequality amendment. Pierson argued that Catholics must be free to vote their conscience. He highlighted Paragraph 1782 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which acknowledges Catholics' right to make decisions based on conscience, even when it conflicts with the official teaching of the Church.
Pierson argued that civil marriage, which is by definition outside of the Church's jurisdiction, does not pose a threat to the Catholic definition of marriage because it does not make any requirements of the Church.
Pierson also explained that the facts supporting the effectiveness of gay parenthood, further building his case for why Catholics can in good conscience vote no on the amendment. Pierson's speech comes days after a pro-marriage equality speech by Dallas pastor Frederick Haynes went viral.
