Louisiana Bishop Counsels Civil Disobedience

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LAFAYETTE, La., June 26, 2015 (ChurchMilitant.com) - Bishop Michael Jarrell of the Diocese of Lafayette, Louisiana issued a strong statement of condemnation of the Supreme Court's decision ruling in favor of gay "marriage."

Let me state very plainly that no human court has the authority to change what God has written into the law of creation. This ruling is irreconcilable with the nature and definition of marriage as established by Divine Law. The marital covenant was established by God with its proper nature and laws.

He then goes on to counsel civil disobedience for Catholics in government roles who may be forced to legally recognize or ratify same-sex "marriages."

"I realize that this ruling will create conscience problems for many Catholics, especially those in public office. In some cases, civil disobedience may be a proper response."

He also forbids clergy from participating in same-sex "marriage" services, as well as diocesan property from being used for any such events.

No priest or deacon of this Diocese may participate in the civil solemnization or celebration of a same-sex marriage. All Catholics are urged not to attend same-sex marriage ceremonies. No Catholic facility or property, including but not limited to parishes, missions, chapels, meeting halls, Catholic educational, health or charitable institutions, or facilities belonging to benevolent orders may be used for the solemnization of same-sex marriage.

He goes on to discuss this fall's Synod on the Family and how today's gay "marriage" ruling may affect discussions there, and then ends with a reaffirmation of the enduring nature of Holy Matrimony.

"As Catholics, we have a profound respect for the dignity of all God's children. Nevertheless, there is no basis in law or in nature for altering the traditional definition of marriage, established by God from the beginning."

Bishop Jarrell has been head of the diocese of Lafayette since 2002.

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