Four dissenting votes should not have the power to override the will of God and the people when there is no constitutional right to same-sex marriage. As far as a constitutional prohibition against discrimination, the current domestic partner laws already prohibit discrimination.
The California Supreme Court’s ruling is not a legitimate nullification of an unconstitutional law, but rather an attempt by four liberal judges to redefine the biblical and historical definition of marriage, which is out of their jurisdiction.
Pastor Dwight Tomlinson
Liberty Baptist Church
Newport Beach
I am optimistic that Californians will vote against amendments brought primarily by those who believe homosexuality is a sin or a defect. These views should not guide public policy.
The “sanctity of marriage” is best protected by teaching the values of commitment, love, sacrifice and generosity, rather than by checking crotches to be sure the applicants for a license are “one man and one woman.”
Not all religious groups are opposed to gay marriage. For example, The United Church of Christ, Unitarian Universalism, Reform Judaism and Zen Buddhism permit gay marriage.
The California Supreme Court has clarified that gay marriage is legal. I hope voters will support the rights of their gay and lesbian family, neighbors, friends and coworkers to take the same joyful and meaningful step in life as they have.
The Rev. Deborah Barrett
Zen Center of Orange County, Costa Mesa
