Same-sex marriage in Canada

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2005: Controversy over a pastoral letter sent by
Bishop Henry of the Diocese of Calgary, AB

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On 2005-JAN,  Bishop Frederick B. Henry wrote one of his monthly pastoral letters to fellow Roman Catholics in the Diocese of Calgary, Alberta. It concerned same-sex marriage (SSM). ₁ It included:

	Seven points which, are either facts, or appear to accurately reflect Roman Catholic teaching.
	One point which appears to be in error.
	One personal speculation as to the motivation of persons supporting same-sex marriage (SSM).
	One statement that links homosexuality with adultery, prostitution and pornography and asserts that: "the State must use its coercive power to proscribe or curtail" homosexuality. Bishop Henry did not define what he meant by "coercive power."
	One statement that homosexual behavior is "an evil act."

The last two statements appear to have triggered two complaints by individuals -- both heterosexuals -- with the Alberta Human Rights Commission (HRC). Meanwhile, many religious and social conservatives have defended Bishop Henry and hs letter on freedom of speech grounds.

Topics covered in this section:

	Bishop Henry's initial letter, 2005-JAN; possible interpretations   Reactions to the letter   Complaints before the Human Rights Commission Part 1 Part 2 Part 3
	Bishop Henry's second letter, 2005-MAY

Reference used:

1. F.B. Henry, "On Same-Sex Marriage," 2005-JAN, at: http://www.rcdiocese-calgary.ab.ca/

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Copyright © 2005 & 2012 by Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance
Originally posted: 2005-JUL-15
Latest update: 2012-JUL-14
Author: B.A. Robinson

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