Bishops Issue Statment On R-74
A Roman Catholic Church
Roman Catholic Bishops of Washington issue a statement today about Referendum-74 - the effort to overturn the state's new gay marriage law.
In the letter, bishops say they are reaffirming their commitment to protect and defend the dignity of all people, including gays and lesbians.
However, bishops are addressing the church's belief that marriage can only be between a man and woman.
Yakima Bishop Joseph Tyson says the church's recent involvement with Referendum-74 has nothing to do with civil issues.
"What we're trying to uphold is the principle of marriage between one man and one woman. And that's bigger than either church or society. What we're trying to uphold is that the best way to really support children and family life is by acknowledging the primacy of a marriage between one man and one woman," said Tyson.
Voters will be asked to approve or reject Referendum-74 this November.