Fulcrum Statement
On the Use of Religious Buildings for Registration of Civil Partnerships
Fulcrum notes with appreciation undertakings given by the Church of England and the Catholic Church that they will not allow their churches to be used for ceremonies registering or celebrating same-sex unions. It means that a clear demarcation exists between these churches and other traditions wishing to offer such ceremonies.
Fulcrum welcomes the assurance by the Home Secretary that “No religious group will be forced to host a civil partnership registration.” We believe however that where a religious group does proceed, the rights of those believers who object to hosting such registration need to be safeguarded.
Fulcrum remains concerned that these unions are regularly being labelled as ‘marriages’ and that steps may be taken to further erode the distinction between marriage and civil partnerships. Scripture, tradition and the teaching of the Church affirm that marriage is a union of a man and a woman. Both Christian and non-Christian cultures have recognised the unique and central place such a union has for human flourishing and the common good of society.
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