Honoring Tradition and Moving Forward Pt. 2

Gay Marriage and Civil Rights have been front page news these days, and now that New York has legalized Gay Marriage many religious organizations are moving forward on the issue as well.

The Episcopal Church has been battling this issue nationally for a long time, and you may have seen some news about it in past months.

But here in the diocese of Long Island, Bishop Lawrence C. Provenzano has responded to the New York law and issued a full letter stating that the Episopal church intends to uphold the law and perform marriages for those who seek them.

(the full letter is here: http://www.dioceselongisland.org/noticesDetail.php?A-Theological-Perspective-and-Practical-Guideline-on-Marriage-in-the-Diocese-of-Long-Island-24)

The Church is living it's promise of inclusivity to all.  Your local Episopal Church, St. Luke's is moving forward as well and has issued the following statement:

All are Welcome
Our parish mission statement says that Saint Luke’s Church strives to be a center of spiritual strength and compassionate service, a welcoming home to all who seek a greater awareness of God’s purpose. United by God’s abiding love, we celebrate the rich diversity of our community, opening our doors to all people.

Sharing Fully in the Sacramental Life of the Church
Following the June 2011 passage of the New York State Marriage Equality Act, The Right Reverend Lawrence Provenzano, Bishop of Long Island, embraced The Episcopal Church’s 2009 General Convention resolution which calls for generous pastoral response in dioceses where civil union and marriage are permitted for same-gender couples. The Rector, Wardens and Vestry of Saint Luke’s Church accept and endorse our Bishop’s direction allowing the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and use of rites that bless marriages between persons of the same gender. Furthermore, Saint Luke’s Church assures all persons of the pastoral care and sacramental ministry of Christ (Baptism, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Affirmation of Faith, Ministry Discernment, Marriage, Ministry with the Sick and Dying).

We are All Brothers and Sisters in Christ
Whether one is seeking the Church’s blessing in marriage or guidance for faithful living; whether you are married or single, an adult, teenager, young girl or boy, each one of us is a child of God blessed with divine gifts and called to life together in sharing the gifts of God. By worshipping and learning together, we share in the joys of faith and supportive community, remembering that we are called to be the presence of Christ in the world.

If you would like to know more about the Episopal Church, it's history, or it's stance on any of today's current issues.  You can check the website, contact the office, or attend a new lecture series coming this fall! http://www.stlukesforesthills.org