Charter of Right and Freedom<br/><br/>

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops disclosed its opinion on December 9th regarding the ruling by the Supreme Court of Canada on the subject of same sex marriage.<br/><br/>

1) The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) welcomes that the court, through the Charter of Right and Freedom, grants all religious organizations the freedom to act according to their beliefs. Therefore, religious officials and sacred places are not liable to accept applications for same sex marriage.<br/><br/>

2) The Catholic Church will continue to celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage between a man and a woman.<br/><br/>

3) The Catholic Church will continue to recognize marriage as the social act of the loving, lifelong unity between man and woman, during which the couple gives birth to and nurtures their children. Such act is one of compassion and not for one’s self-benefit.<br/><br/>

4) The parliament will soon be discussing legal issues regarding marriage. We hope that every senator will conscientiously discuss and vote on the issues.<br/><br/>

5) The CCCB is enthusiastic to participate in the discussion regarding marriage laws in Canada. It also urges all citizens to actively reflect your opinion to your representatives in the Senate and the House of Commons.