The Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne, Denis Hart, has urged Catholics to be “active and respectful” in engaging on the issue of same-sex marriage in an open pastoral letter released this week.
Archbishop Hart, who is also president of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, said in the letter that it was “vital” Catholics take part in the upcoming national postal survey on the issue, the outcome of which he said would “profoundly” affect society and families in the future.
He said the Catholic Church “teaches that marriage is a natural institution established by God to be a permanent union between one man and one woman, intended towards the formation of a family in which children are born and nurtured”. Any legislative change to the definition of marriage, therefore, “demands careful consideration by all Australians”.
“We understand that ours is not the only viewpoint in our diverse society,” he wrote. “Many do not agree with it. Many people see this as an issue about ensuring equality for every and all relationships. Yes, human rights are important. But so are human responsibilities. We are responsible for the impact of our decisions on future generations. Therefore, we ask all to consider the profound implications of possible legislation that will embed this desire for equality of relationships in our laws.”
Archbishop Hart said in the letter that it was “entirely possible” future legislation concerning same-sex marriage “could infringe fundamental human rights of freedom of religion and conscience”.
“It could result in restrictions on the right of ministers of religion and religious bodies and organisations having the freedom to teach, preach and speak about marriage between persons of the same sex being contrary to their religious or conscientious beliefs.”
Noting that the church affirmed the “dignity” of people with a same-sex orientation and their right “to expect to be loved and welcomed and not subject to unjust discrimination”, he urged people to “be humble and never judgemental” in conversations and encounters.
“As Catholics concerned for the common good may we join all our fellow citizens of Australia in an active and respectful engagement in this critical public conversation.”
