I rejoice that the Supreme Court has opened the way for the love of two people to be recognized by all the states of this Union, and that the Court has recognized that it is this enduring, humble love that extends beyond the grave that is to be treasured by society wherever it exists. Our society will be enriched by the public recognition of such enduring faithful love in families headed by two men or two women as well as by a woman and a man. The children of this land will be stronger when they grow up in families that cannot be unmade by prejudice or discrimination. May love endure and flourish wherever it is to be found.

The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori
Presiding Bishop and Primate
The Episcopal Church

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Gene Robinson - New Hampshire - retired: "I believe that God works for justice night and day, and when the church doesn't follow God's lead, God sometimes works in the culture. And so, this is a victory for God. Now, The Episcopal Church gets to decide if it wants to join God in that justice," retired Diocese of New Hampshire Bishop Gene Robinson told Episcopal News Service just before convention's daily Eucharist began.

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Mary Glasspool - Los Angeles: "I am so excited, I'm very, very proud to be a part of The Episcopal Church, which has been dealing with marriage equality in a variety of different forms for a long number of years," said Bishop Suffragan of Los Angeles Mary D. Glasspool.

"Of course my excitement is couched by other areas of our life together where there isn't such equality, but every bit helps. We've been moving toward trying to say all really means all, the (U.S.) Constitution applies to everybody. When The Episcopal Church says we are open to everybody, and all of the sacraments are available to all of the people, that's what we mean, so we are living into that."

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Bishop Raul Tobias --- Philippine Independent Church, with whom The Episcopal Church is in full communion, said that while he "rejoices in as much as it is an answer to prayers for many, it is not yet time for us" in the Philippine Independent Church to consider these discussions.

He said the decision "created an opening for joy. I rejoice for their joy. Because we're not ready doesn't mean we're against it. We're just not ready for it."

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The Right Reverend Brian R. Seage, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi

The decision of the United States Supreme Court in the case of Obergefell v. Hodges marks a pivotal moment in our nation's history. The United States, over the last 240 years, has sought to become a haven of liberty, justice, and a home for those seeking to exercise the rights bestowed on them by our Creator.

I applaud the decision. It stands alongside previous courageous decisions the Court has made, such as Brown v. Board of Education and Loving v. Virginia. The LGBT community has patiently awaited full inclusion in society and recognition of human rights granted to all people through our Constitution. This is certainly something they should celebrate. It is also something that we should all celebrate because, as the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, "No man is free until we are all free." There is now a recognized layer of freedom for all that did not exist before this ruling.

I understand, though, that there are some who do not celebrate this decision. They may see this as a threat to much-beloved institutions of our society. Those fears are to be acknowledged. We need to walk with those who dissent from this opinion as they face these fears. Many people of good conscience disagree, and we must keep the doors of our churches and institutions open to them. They, too, are our brothers and sisters.

The court's ruling raises questions as to the meaning of potential actions by the Episcopal Church's General Convention being held in Salt Lake City. I would offer a way of viewing those considerations.

First, there are issues of justice, which the Supreme Court has addressed quite fully in its decision. These are issues of equality under the laws of the United States. The Church has already taken significant steps to address issues of justice and we may speak even more clearly in the days ahead.

There are also theological and sacramental issues, which the Court could not address. The Church is the appropriate province for those discussions. We may be asked to state -- in our canons or our constitution -- whether there are adequate theological foundations for the church to create and offer a sacramental liturgy of Holy Matrimony for those persons in same-sex relationships. These are not simple, one-dimensional discussions. Support of equality under the law does not preclude appropriate discussions from the viewpoint of sacramental theology. The mind of the Church, gathered in General Convention, may make that decision.

These are times which are both exciting and challenging. I hope that all people of faith will hold God's reconciling mission in their prayers in the weeks ahead.

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The Rt. Rev. Stephen T. Lane of the Diocese of Maine on the Supreme Court's decision on same sex marriage

June 26, 2015

The following is a statement from the Rt. Rev. Stephen T. Lane, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Maine, on the Supreme Court's decision regarding same-sex marriage.

Since 2012, when Maine was among the first states to approve marriage equality by popular vote, same sex couples and their families have enjoyed knowing their relationships and their families enjoy greater security and protection. With today's Supreme Court decision, I rejoice that the right to marry, with its attendant benefits and responsibilities, will be afforded to all Americans who choose to exercise it.

In concluding his majority opinion for Obergefell v. Hodges, Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote most elegantly: "No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than they once were."

Such recognition of the value of marriage and the love shared among members of a family echoes what is core to our Christian belief that we are all created in God's image and, in baptism, we are all full members of the church. In many of our congregations, both in Maine and around the country, faithful same sex couples and their families are sharing in their local church's life and ministry and in service to their communities. I give thanks for their faith, witness, and sustained pursuit of justice.

While the question of marriage equality is now settled in the civil sphere, I ask for your prayers as we at the 78th General Convention of the Episcopal Church seek to engage in generous conversation about the definition of marriage and revisions to our liturgies. Disagreement remains, but with God's grace the justice attained in today's decision will be extended across the Episcopal Church.

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Bishops Alan Gates & Gayle Harris -- Diocese of Massachusetts

"A thing to be celebrated": Bishops' statement on the Supreme Court's marriage decision

We greet with joy the Supreme Court's decision to uphold the right of same-sex couples to marry throughout the United States. This is a fundamental matter of equal treatment under the law, with profound implications for the ways in which couples and their families are supported in their life together by societal structures. We are deeply grateful that such equal treatment has now been affirmed by our nation's highest court.

The Episcopal Church's Book of Common Prayer includes in the marriage rite a prayer that the couple seeking God's blessing might so order their life together "that each may be to the other a strength in need, a counselor in perplexity, a comfort in sorrow, and a companion in joy." It is evident to us that same-sex couples and opposite-sex couples aspire equally to this description of marriage, and by God's grace make it manifest.

That they should be supported in doing so not only with God's blessing, but also with recognition and equal treatment under the law is a thing to be celebrated.

The Rt. Rev. Alan M. Gates, Bishop
The Rt. Rev. Gayle E. Harris, Bishop Suffragan

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A statement from the Rt. Rev. Thomas C. Ely, Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Vermont on the ruling of the Supreme Court that the Constitution guarantees a right to same-sex marriage

I am now serving in my fifteenth year as bishop of Vermont, where for all those years the state of Vermont has made legal provision for the union of same-sex couples, first by civil union and now by way of marriage. My relationships with the people of Vermont have significantly shaped by understanding and convictions related to same-sex marriage. I rejoice in the decision made by the Supreme Court today that guarantees the right to same-sex marriage to all Americans. It is just and honest.

I especially want to recognize and congratulate two members of the Episcopal Church in Vermont who have been seminal to the movement that has brought us here. The Rev. Stannard Baker was the lead plaintiff in Baker vs. Vermont, the 1999 case in which the Vermont Supreme Court ruled that same-sex couples are entitled to the benefits and protections of marriage. Vermont was the first state to do so. I also want to recognize Tom Little, Esq., who was the chair of the judiciary committee that wrote the Vermont civil unions law in 2000. Later, Tom chaired the statewide Vermont Commission on Family Recognition and Protection. The findings of this commission paved the way for civil unions to give way to full marriage equality in 2008.

I believe equality is a gospel value, a justice value, a missional value, and a pastoral value. Securing the right to marriage to all people is a practice consistent with the long-held values of civil equality held by the Episcopal Church. I celebrate today with all same-sex couples who are now granted this fundamental right.

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The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, Episcopal Bishop of Rhode Island, welcomes the Supreme Court's decision on marriage.

"Today's Supreme Court's decision on marriage equality brings to a close the legal questions surrounding marriage. In his majority opinion Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy states: 'The court now holds that same-sex couples may exercise the fundamental right to marry. No longer may this liberty be denied to them.'

As the Episcopal Bishop of Rhode Island, I support this decision which allows same-sex couples to marry, not in spite of my Christian faith, but because of it. The Episcopal Church has been blessed for many years by the life and ministry of gay and lesbian couples, both lay and ordained. I have seen how they contribute to the common good of a congregation and community.

I am confident that our congregations will continue to welcome all people whoever and wherever they are on their spiritual journeys.

I suggest that as we give thanks we also remain aware that this is still a place of disagreement. Our yearning for the peaceable kingdom calls us to be sensitive to the reality that while this decision of our highest court concludes the political debate, we must hold space for continued conversation in which we honor and welcome all."

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The Rt. Rev. Andrew M.L. Dietsche, Bishop of New York Celebrates Marriage Equality in Letter to Diocese

Bishop Dietsche, currently in Salt Lake City for the 78th General Convention of The Episcopal Church, where consideration of same-gender marriage is high on the agenda, this evening sent a letter to the people of the diocese celebrating the Supreme Court decision on marriage equality that was announced earlier today. The full text of the letter follow, and can also be read as sent by clicking here.

My dear brothers and sisters,

Marriage equality has come to all Americans! Today the United States Supreme Court declared that the denial of the right to marry for same-sex couples is unconstitutional. This is a day which will live always in the annals of American civil rights. I know that I speak for the whole Diocese of New York, which has offered the sacrament of marriage to same sex couples for three years, in giving thanks that those principles which we have discovered to be true and godly and compassionate, which promote freedom and support equal rights and opportunity for all people, are now enshrined by our highest court to be the law for all Americans in every place.

But more than the change in law itself, we give thanks for the movement of the Holy Spirit within the church and the world which has led to the broadening and deepening of our common understanding of marriage and sacrament and covenant, and which I believe has made us a more generous and gracious people. In both the state of New York and the Diocese of New York, we have embraced and offered full marriage equality since 2012. The rite of Holy Matrimony in the Book of Common Prayer asks God to "grant that all married persons who have witnessed these vows may find their lives strengthened and their loyalties confirmed." Over these years our church has witnessed the vows of marriage spoken by people who had earlier been refused that right, and our learnings from one another about promises made and promises kept, and the theological and spiritual power of covenant honored over many years, and the graces and blessings we have seen in long-time loves made new, have indeed strengthened our lives as Christians and confirmed our loyalties as a people.

I have presided at marriages of men to men, and women to women, a number of times in these last years. And I have been struck by the power and poignancy of seeing people who have been living shared lives for many years, or even decades, now stand before one another and through tears bind themselves anew by sacred vow and lifelong covenant. I give thanks for the actions of the United States Supreme Court today, and I celebrate the freedoms now spreading across America, and I honor the transformation of law that will bring transformation also to culture and practice. But let us never forget that this decision is also profoundly personal for millions of Americans. This morning a man at General Convention greeted me with the words, "I am legal everywhere now." To those of you who have waited long to see this day, who maybe feared you never would, who will celebrate this day with your beloved and give thanks together, and who have discovered new graces in this freedom and new blessings in this equality -- to you I offer my own joy, my personal congratulations, my very best wishes, and the happy greetings of your church and diocese. When anyone is liberated we are all made more free, when anyone is blessed we are all raised together. Praise God.

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Rt. Rev. Mark Beckwith -- Diocese of Newark "More people are fully alive today" - Bishop Beckwith's statement on the SCOTUS marriage equality ruling.

Marriage is now the law of the land. Not just in some sections of the country, but everywhere across the United States. Full equality has now been extended to every couple that seeks to make a lifelong commitment of fidelity and faith to one another.

We are created in the image of God. For centuries the human family has erected barriers which have prevented some people from living into their God-like image, because of prejudice, racism, ignorance and fear. Today the Supreme Court removed one of those barriers.

The second century theologian Iranaeus wrote that the glory of God is the human being fully alive. More people are fully alive today. For that, I give deep thanks.

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The Rt. Rev. Prince Singh, Diocese of Rochester

I join with millions of others, and certainly many in the Diocese of Rochester, in giving thanks to God for the gift that we share as people of faith, in belonging to a community that truly takes care of the belovedness that we share in Christ.

One of those expressions of that belovedness is what we consider to be Holy Matrimony. To have the Supreme Court come out clearly with a ruling in favor of marriage equality is truly remarkable and truly profound.

All our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters would find this gift of marriage to be real in our time is profoundly humbling and truly a moment of great rejoicing. It's a happy day.

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The Rt. Rev. R. William Franklin - Western New York

I am so pleased with today's Supreme Court ruling. This has been a week of profound steps, a turning point in our national life. The tragedy in Charleston impelled us to remove symbols of racism and to recommit to coming together to address the systems of intolerance and racism that have kept us separated. Today's ruling lifts a different barrier, one that has stood in the way of what Justice Kennedy rightly called "equal dignity in the eyes of the law" for same gendered couples.

This is a stand that I and our Diocese have held for several years. For us it comes out of our Episcopal faith and our theology. In seeking Christ in all persons, in loving our neighbor as ourselves, in respecting the dignity of every human being, we show the presence of Christ to the world. We become a clearer reflection of the love and presence of Christ that we are called to share with all the world.

In all that we do let us remember the words from First John, 'Beloved, let us love one another because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. God's love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him.' Our call as Christians is to reflect the love of Jesus to the world through our prayers, through our service to others and through the reflection of the love of God that is seen in marriages -- all marriages.

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The Rt. Rev. Sean Rowe Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania & Bethlehem-provisional

While we were gathered at General Convention, the Supreme Court of the United States made marriage equality the law of the land. While this does not change the law in Pennsylvania, where we have enjoyed marriage equality since last spring, it does bring about long-sought legal equality for our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) sisters and brothers. Just a few days later, both the House of Bishops and House of Deputies overwhelmingly approved two resolutions that bring liturgical marriage equality to all dioceses of the Episcopal Church beginning on the first Sunday in Advent. Our path toward marriage equality in the Episcopal Church has been long--some 40 years--and sometimes difficult, and I celebrate that we have finally arrived at a time when we can provide not only legal protection, but also full recognition of the sacred bond that unites both same-sex couples and opposite-sex couples who marry in our church.

I have not always seen the issue of marriage equality the way I do now, and I understand that this decision of the General Convention may be difficult for some people to understand and accept. If you are struggling with this change, I hope that you can find ways to listen to the stories of our LGBT couples and families across the church and find, as I have found, the power of their witness and their love of Jesus. My relationships with LGBT Christians have brought me to a new understanding of scripture, fidelity, and marriage, and I am grateful to them for so generously sharing their lives with me.

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The Rt. Rev. Wayne P. Wright, --Episcopal Diocese of Delaware

This was also the week that we heard the Supreme Court's conclusive decision

on marriage equality. This equally historic event confirms the long process of conversation and study happening in our diocese and state for many years. The General Convention will be adopting standards to guide our churches going forward. I will always be grateful for the ways that the Diocese of Delaware has provided leadership through these years. Thank you for the patience, hard work, and pastoral spirit that has always guided us.

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Statement by the Rt. Rev. Eugene Taylor Sutton, Bishop of Maryland, on the Supreme Court's decision on marriage equality, June 26, 2015

The Supreme Court of the United States' decision to legalize marriage for all who wish to be married was announced while the Episcopal Church gathered at General Convention in Salt Lake City. Our church is currently discussing this same issue and I do hope that we will have the courage and generosity to offer the sacrament of marriage to all people.

I wish to assure the clergy of the Diocese of Maryland that neither the Supreme Court decision nor any decision of General Convention will force anyone to officiate at any wedding. Lay members and clergy should review my pastoral letter of October 2012 when Maryland faced a vote on marriage equality which became law in the state.

As I said then I recognize this is, for some, a difficult issue. Clearly, we are in the midst of a new Pentecost, and I hope there is comfort in knowing that the first disciples of Jesus Christ felt discomfort and fear as they faced an unknown future. Let us be encouraged to believe that the Holy Spirit is similarly moving in and through us.

Meanwhile, let us celebrate the love of God in and through people who have previously been excluded from a sacramental union blessed by the Church. Let us pray that the Church benefits from marriages that build the beloved community of God.

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A Pastoral Note from Bishop Dorsey McConnell -- Diocese of Pittsburgh

Dear friends in Christ,

Today the United States Supreme Court ruled that all Americans, regardless of their sexual orientation, have a constitutional right to marry the person they choose and in doing so are guaranteed equal protection under the law throughout this land. I rejoice with all of our LGBT sisters and brothers, that their long perseverance in the courts has been rewarded, and that civil rights and benefits once denied to some are now extended to all.

Here in Salt Lake City, at the 78th General Convention of the Episcopal Church, we are in the process of considering issues that are very closely related to today's developments in our country. We are engaged in a prayerful council involving our understanding of human sexuality, relationship, commitment, and sacrament; and how, as people of faith, we can respond in our time and place. In the Special Legislative Committee on Marriage, on which I serve, we are sorting through questions of doctrine, constitution, canons and liturgy. We will likely not know the full shape of any actions to be taken up by the whole Convention -- Bishops and Deputies alike -- until much closer to the end of our time together next Friday.

In the meantime, I ask you all to pray for us at General Convention, as well as for the whole Church and our nation. As always I am aware of the great diversity of views on these matters held by the members of this diocese, reflecting the variety of the whole Episcopal Church. And I hope and trust, as I have since my first days as your bishop, that as we have in the past, so in the coming days, we will continue to walk together in the Lord, embracing one another and always remembering that our differences are far overpowered by our unity in Jesus Christ and His faithfulness towards us.

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Bishops of The Diocese of Virginia issue a letter on the Supreme Court Ruling

The Rt. Rev. Shannon S. Johnston, Bishop of Virginia
The Rt. Rev. Susan E. Goff, Bishop Suffragan of Virginia
The Rt. Rev. Edwin F. Gulick, Assistant Bishop of Virginia

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We received today with grateful hearts the decision of the Supreme Court on same-gender marriage. We share the joy of those who will finally be able to have their unions recognized fully by every state, without fear of later invalidation. Our gay and lesbian sisters and brothers have endured so much in our journey to this passionately joyful day. We also reach out personally to those dismayed by today's ruling, recognizing that for some in our Diocese and beyond, these issues are still divisive and distressing.

The ruling that guarantees a right to same-sex marriage comes as we are gathered with hundreds of Episcopal leaders from all over the United States and 16 other countries at our triennial General Convention in Salt Lake City. Indeed, it says something about the timeliness of this historic ruling that it comes as we are in the midst of discerning how our Church should proceed on the issue of marriage equality -- a goal we support. We are working tirelessly to find a way for our Church to move forward at this General Convention, being fully consonant with the Supreme Court's ruling, without compromising our Church's Constitution.

We believe that our Diocese is particularly well-positioned to reach out to those whose reactions to today's news are passionate and diverse. The strength of Anglicanism is that we can bear witness to our faith in the public square with conviction and passion, while recognizing that we are not of one mind. Indeed, it is that very diversity that makes our Church a powerful force for reconciliation in the world. We know that, whatever our differences may be on specific rulings or laws, there is so much more that unites us all as children of God who gather together at the table of our Lord.

The reference in today's majority decision to the Loving case from Virginia, which struck down laws banning interracial marriage, makes this day particularly poignant to those of us in the Diocese of Virginia. We pray for all couples in unions marked by a loving, lifelong commitment to one another.

Bishop Johnston issued this statement: Diocese of Virginia Bishop Shannon Johnston spoke against canonical changes and urged instead revision of the Prayer Book and Constitution as a stronger and better means for accomplishing the task force's goals. "I want to say first of all that I am absolutely and utterly committed to full marriage equality in the life and witness of The Episcopal Church, full stop," he said. "I want the strongest possible witness this church can make for marriage equality, and doing it simply by canonical means, I think, is the weaker case."

*****

The following is a statement issued by the Rt. Rev. Kee Sloan, Bishop of Alabama on the actions of the General Convention:

The 78th General Convention of the Episcopal Church, meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah, has made several important and far-reaching decisions, including a renewed emphasis on evangelism, race relations, and the changing face of communications. We are excited about the election of the Rt. Rev. Michael B. Curry, Bishop of North Carolina, to be the 27th Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church. We have had extensive and fruitful conversations about restructuring the church to be more responsive to the changing needs of the world around us. The Convention has passed two resolutions on same sex marriage: one adjusting the canons of the Episcopal Church to make provisions for offering marriage to same sex couples in civil jurisdictions that allow it, and the other authorizing liturgies for trial use in offering same sex marriages.

This is an extension of work done in previous General Conventions, and continues the effort of the Episcopal Church to invite and welcome all people into this part of God's Church. We recognize that all people are broken, and that we are all beloved of God, and redeemed by God.

The Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Alabama already has a policy in place regarding the blessing of same sex unions, which makes it possible for congregations and clergy who believe this is a loving extension of God's Kingdom to offer these blessings, while at the same time making it possible for those who do not believe this is right to not participate. The same commission which helped form that policy will come together at the end of the month to review the policy in light of resolutions passed at General Convention and recent rulings by the United States Supreme Court. The resolutions passed at General Convention go into effect the first Sunday of Advent, November 27, 2015, but the Episcopal Church in Alabama will wait for the work of the commission to guide our life together as a diocese. We will continue to treat this important matter deliberately, carefully, and prayerfully.

No priest in the diocese of Alabama is authorized to solemnize a marriage between people of the same sex until permission is expressly given by one of the bishops of this diocese. No priest will ever be forced or pressured into performing a marriage between two people of the same sex.

Episcopalians in Alabama are not of one mind on this issue, but we continue to be united to one another, committed to each other in work and worship, even when we disagree.

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A statement from the Rt. Rev. Robert Skirving of the Diocese of East Carolina

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

On Friday morning, as I sat in a legislative committee meeting at General Convention in Salt Lake City, my wife Sandy texted me with the news that the Supreme Court had announced their ruling in favor of civil marriage for all couples, nationwide. Our committee was listening to a guest presenter and I could not interrupt. Tears ran down my face as I quietly celebrated this news.

I remembered same-sex couples I have known who have waited for this day, and I thought of parents I've known who have longed for their gay and lesbian children to have the same rights and freedoms enjoyed by others under the law. I thought of those who would find this decision difficult, but mostly I rejoiced with those who have waited so long.

God is at work in our world, always doing a new thing. This is something I believe deeply. We are called to prayerfully seek God's presence in our midst and, where we find God doing a new thing, to join in the building of God's kingdom in our own time and place. Let each of us pray that we will have the courage and conviction of Jesus, who was steadfast in seeking the will of his heavenly Father, and who was then obedient in following it. Please pray for me, for our East Carolina deputation, and for all of us who are gathered at General Convention, as we work to shape the mission and ministry of The Episcopal Church, that we will be faithful disciples of Jesus.

Remember that our diocese will host a series of five deanery meetings that will be open to all members of the church, to take place early this fall. Each of these meetings will include conversations about the resolutions we will adopt at General Convention, particularly those having to do with the marriage of same sex couples. We'll also discuss possibilities regarding the ongoing life of our deaneries. More information about these conversations, including the dates, will be circulated before summer's end.

We may not always agree with one another, but we are called to be one body in Christ Jesus our Lord. May God's Holy Spirit grant you eyes to see God at work in our world and hearts full of love for all of God's children.

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A message from by The Rt. Rev. George Dibrell Young, III of the Diocese of East Tennessee on a decision by the Supreme Court and The Episcopal Church General Convention

Dear fellow followers of Jesus,

I rejoice with our lesbian and gay sisters and brothers at the recent decisions by the Supreme Court, and in the General Convention of The Episcopal Church. They have been treated as second-class citizens, and lesser children of God for far too long.

I also thank God for the diversity in our church, and am grateful that the minority voice of those who struggle with these decisions is not only acknowledged, but respected. There is a welcome place for all in The Episcopal Church.

There is also much more work to do as we continue to seek justice in our communities and in the world. Racism, poverty, sexism, and violence are but a few of the evils in our lives that God calls us to challenge. Please join me in praying for the courage and strength and grace we need to be about God's mission in the world.

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A statement the Rt. Rev. Scott Benhase, Diocese of Georgia on the Supreme Court's Decision

Today the U.S. Supreme Court made its ruling on same sex marriage, making a way for same sex couples in all states to marry. I rejoice in this decision in that it grants a basic civil right to all couples under our civil law. The Court has determined that our Constitution requires that the government must treat all couples equally, regardless of sexual orientation. A civil right, nonetheless, is not the same as a sacramental rite. Our General Convention is currently discussing how we will respond as The Episcopal Church.

Until our Church discerns how we will proceed, the guidelines I put forward in the fall of 2012 are still in effect, but with a few changes. Same sex couples may now get legally married by the local civil authority and then come to the Church for a blessing upon their relationship. In my previous guidelines, I required each congregation's vestry to endorse these blessings if they were to be done on church property. Presbyters, however, were free to provide such blessings without vestry endorsement if they were to be offered elsewhere. This guideline is still in effect. My rationale for maintaining such endorsement is the basic reality that faithful people can and will come to different conclusions about the Church's role in blessing same sex marriages. However, creating divisions among clergy and lay leadership in a congregation serves no useful purpose for God's mission.

After General Convention is over, I will write more to the Diocese of Georgia on the decisions that we make here. I continue to hope that faithful Georgia Episcopalians can view whatever differences we have in light of the mercy and grace of Jesus Christ, who died for the sins of all, and whose resurrection promises eternal life for all who place their trust in him

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A statement from the Rt. Rev. Douglas Hahn, Bishop of the Diocese of Lexington

The day at General Convention began with the news that the Supreme Court had affirmed marriage equality. In words of worship for the convention -- planned months ago without regard to this issue -- sang the words "People of God, gather together, come let us sing on this glorious day....Come let us join in the heavenly dance, praising in joyous celebration." And sing and dance we did, to the sounds of a jazz band. For many this was a major milestone in a long hard road.

Throughout the day bishops and others released statements to their dioceses. Mine is this:

Today the Supreme Court made marriage equality the law of the land. I rejoice in this action; it gives legal support to our Episcopal baptismal promise to seek justice and respect the dignity of every human being. We commit to supporting all married couples. We also commit to engage faithful people who not agree with this action with dignity, believing that respectful civil dialogue in matters of conscience makes us all better Americans and children of God.

The question about how same sex marriage will be liturgically celebrated and recognized by the church is yet to be determined. This will be the topic of much discussion in days to come at General Convention.

Tomorrow is a very big day in the life of the church as bishops gather to elect the next presiding bishop. Bishops will gather in the context of prayer in St. Mark's Cathedral for this important event. As I have said many times, any of these men will be a fine Presiding Bishop. All of them will continue to be exemplary leaders in the church whatever role they play.

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A statement from the Bishop Suffragan of North Carolina Anne Elliott Hodges-Copple

Imagine the spirit in the room on the Legislative Committee on Marriage when the decision of the Supreme Court of the United States was announced. And now marriage equality is the law of the land, and not the civil rights of our citizens, especially our LGBT citizens are clearly defined. It is historic. It is liberating. It is breathtaking. Isn't it remarkable that The Episcopal Church has a different discernment process right now. It is related, but it is different. It's about marriage rites. We are taking this discernment so seriously and to heart and mind and body and spirit to ask: "What is our theology of marriage?" And: "How will the sacramental rite of marriage be expanded to understand that all are welcome in the baptismal covenant to experience a completeness of the ordering our lives in the Body of Christ?"

I'm looking forward to see how the legislative committee and the two houses (HOB/HOD) come together, knowing we are one in Christ, many in opinions, and even some disagreement about our theology of marriage, but looking to continue this path toward understanding that, when two become one, we -- as the Body of Christ -- are blessed.

We are blessed in the sanctity of knowing that we can give our complete selves to another human being -- mind, body, heart and soul -- in a way that will bless us, bless our church, and be a light of Christ in the world.

It is an exciting an exciting morning of continued discernment and prayer to see where the Holy Spirit is leading us next in the profound mystery of holy marriage.

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A statement from the Rt. Rev. Charles vonRosenberg of The Episcopal Church IN South Carolina

One of the actions of General Convention, meeting in Salt Lake City, includes changes made to our church canon on marriage. In terms of timing, this change will take effect on Advent I (November 29, 2015). Therefore, we have some time to prepare for this change and to anticipate its effects. This, then, is my initial communication to our diocese about the matter, but as we continue to pray, confer, and plan, it surely will not be the last one.

At the outset, we clearly affirm the presence and participation of faithful gay and lesbian Episcopalians who have been important participants in the mission and ministry of our church through the years. Of course, that affirmation has not always been the case. By this action at General Convention, we repent of previous exclusion, and we indicate our intention to practice full inclusion in the future.

In addition, this canonical change renews our commitment to continue to engage the society into which God has called us. The Episcopal/Anglican tradition calls us into such dialogue with our world and with the particular context in which we are blessed to live. As we know, the law of the land has changed in terms of marriage. This canonical modification keeps The Episcopal Church in the conversation about marriage in our society, and it indicates our intention to position ourselves within the flow of history on this matter.

As has always been the case, a clergy person may choose to decline to officiate at any marriage. Thus, it is important to understand that this canonical change gives permission to officiate at same-sex marriages, but it does not indicate that clergy must do so. In other words, the change in canons is permissive but not directive in nature.

Another aspect of this canonical change -- one that is frankly unpredictable -- involves the effect it may have on our church's relationship with other bodies. As we know, The Episcopal Church itself includes dioceses outside this country, and in some of those places, same-sex marriage is not the law of the land. In those cases, the liturgy for blessings will continue to be available, but the liturgies for same-sex marriage will not be applicable.

Further challenges will emerge in our ecumenical relationships, and in those within the Anglican Communion. Once again in the United States -- our context in the Christian journey -- we find ourselves in the forefront of social change. This position can be exciting, or it can be lonely and uncomfortable. Sometimes it is all of those things. Our call as The Episcopal Church is to be faithful -- faithful, first of all, to God as revealed in Christ and as known through the Holy Spirit; faithful to the Spirit's movement in our particular time and place; and faithful to the commandment of our Lord to love God, neighbor and self, with the open heart of Jesus himself.

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A Statement from the Rt. Rev Leo Frade of the Diocese of Southeast Florida

Today, Friday, is an exciting day, an important day for recognizing that we are all children of God and that we and that God cares for all of us. There was a time in America -- as Justice Kennedy said-- miscegenation was a crime, where people of different races could not mix, and marriage was prohibited for them. There was change, because it was wrong. Slavery was wrong. And it was changed. And today we have achieved one of the things that was a matter of inequality ... the prohibition in some states for people married people. People of the same sex ... people of the same gender.

It is a wonderful day, because I believe that, it has been an incredible struggle for people who have been working for this, people who live together who have been denied the right to be with their partner when they are dying, the right of having their children recognize they have parents who love each other who are married. We have been discriminated in America, and around the world, and somehow we were becoming one of the few countries that kept with that discrimination.

You may agree or disagree with this, but this is the Supreme Court of our land, and the Supreme Court has come with the majority decision that says that we are all the same. And all people have the right to be married. And I rejoice in this.

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The Rt. Rev. Jeffrey D. Lee, Bishop of Chicago, released this statement on the occasion of the Supreme Court's ruling in favor of marriage equality:

"Like many of my fellow Episcopalians, I rejoice in the U. S. Supreme Court's ruling that has made marriage equality the law of our land, as it has been for the last year in Illinois.

"I support civil marriage equality simply because I believe in equal protection under the law. I support sacramental marriage equality because I believe that the union of two persons in heart, body and mind is a school of holiness, a way of ordering our lives so that we might learn to be more faithful servants of Christ. Such unions can be sources and signs of grace, both for the couple and for the wider community, and we need all of the grace we can get.

"Please join me today in praying both for those who are celebrating, as I am, and for those who are troubled by the court's ruling. May we remain one in God's name."

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A statement from the Rt. Rev. Catherine Waynick, Bishop of Indianapolis

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

By the time you read this message you will have heard that the United States Supreme Court has issued a landmark ruling that marriage is a Constitutional right which must be extended to same gender couples in every State in the nation -- affirming that all the legal rights extended to married couples must be granted to them as well.

For a growing number of people this comes as welcome, if far-too-long delayed, affirmation of the rights of the members of the GLBT community. For others it will be seen as the imposition of unwelcome change. Either way, we will now have the opportunity to experience, as a society, what happens when all loving couples are encouraged in their commitments to each other, and are legally supported in their desire to provide for each other and their families. I join many others in rejoicing that this opportunity has finally come to us.

The Supreme Court ruling mandates what must be made legally available to all couples. It does not mandate what churches must do. Because we have no 'established' or 'State' church, churches have the freedom to restrict accessibility to their rites and sacramental acts. Clergy cannot be compelled to act on behalf of the State. And many churches are clear that not even members can demand to have sacramental rites performed on their own terms -- churches are entitled, after all, to define their own rites and sacraments, and to exercise discretion in their administration.

As I write this message The Episcopal Church, met in General Convention at Salt Lake City, is preparing to debate a number of issues surrounding marriage, and the decisions taken here will undoubtedly affect our response to the Supreme Court's ruling. As soon as we have news about those decisions we will share them with you.

As jubilant as many of us are (and I would not for a moment dampen the joyful spirit which has erupted around us), I would remind us all that the Supreme Court has rendered other landmark decisions which have not had the longed-for effect. The high court has made a number of decisions intended to end racial discrimination and ensure equality for people whose skin is dark. But even the Supreme Court cannot mandate changes in the human heart.

During this past year alone we have suffered with brothers and sisters in St. Louis, New York, Baltimore, Charleston, and many other cities, including Indianapolis, as the reality of racial bigotry and prejudice has been laid bare in the wake of hateful and deadly violence. This sinful state of affairs has deep roots, and for the sake of our own souls we dare not ignore our solemn baptismal vow to "strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being." Certainly that vow has stung my heart as I watched the funeral services for innocent victims of the massacre at Mother Emmanuel Church....

I have watched our Church become deflected from the battle against racism more than once, as other issues have captured our attention and energy. But I promise you that I am not going to let this drop. Our integrity as followers of Jesus depends on our being willing to "seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving our neighbors as ourselves." All of them.

What we celebrate today with our GLBT brothers and sisters we must also long to celebrate with our beautiful brown, black, and golden-skinned brothers and sisters, praying that we come to the place of rejoicing in our equality not only under the law, but in God's love and in every human heart.

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A statement from The Rt. Rev. Wendell N. Gibbs, Jr. of the Diocese of Michigan

Dear Sisters and Brothers of the Diocese of Michigan:

Today (on June 26), the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) ruled that equal access to marriage is the law of the land. The words they published say it most appropriately:

"No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were. As some of the petitioners in these cases demonstrate, marriage embodies a love that may endure even past death. It would misunderstand these men and women to say they disrespect the idea of marriage. Their plea is that they do respect it, respect it so deeply that they seek to find its fulfillment for themselves. Their hope is not to be condemned to live in loneliness, excluded from one of civilization's oldest institutions. They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right."

On Facebook, it was reported that upon contacting me at General Convention, I was "overjoyed" with the ruling. I do meet this ruling with joy, because I believe that in this ruling, the "dignity of every human being" is being embraced even by the highest court in the land. However, I am very aware that not all members of our diocesan household share my joy. Even as SCOTUS was not unanimous in its decision, so I do not assume (or expect) that there is unanimity within our diocese. As I indicated when I authorized same sex blessings in 2012, I state again that there will be NO force placed upon any priest of this diocese to preside over any marriage. Also, I expect (and remind you) that there is to be NO deriding of those holding opposing opinions and any such incidences reported to me will be dealt with immediately. Let us, by how we receive this news, also seek to respect human dignity!

Obviously, as this news is very new, and the Episcopal Church is still meeting in General Convention, any further guidelines will have to await decisions of the General Convention and my return to the diocese. Meanwhile, I ask you to continuing praying for our Church, for our deputation, for me and for all those engaged in making decisions about how we do mission and ministry among and with our neighbors.

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A statement from The Rt. Rev. Mark Hollingsworth of the Diocese of Ohio on the Supreme Court's decision on marriage equality

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

The decision of the Supreme Court to reverse the Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit in the Obergefell case makes legal the marriage of same-sex couples in the State of Ohio and across the country. As we move into this new reality, I offer the following guidelines to clergy and congregational leadership:

1) Priests of the Diocese of Ohio are permitted to officiate at same-sex weddings having provided a couple with premarital counseling and in accordance with Canons I.18 and I.19 of the Constitutions and Canons of The Episcopal Church.

2) Liturgies authorized by the Book of Common Prayer and the General Convention of The Episcopal Church may be used in such services, with appropriate adaptation for gender specificity.

3) No priest is required to officiate at such services, nor is a congregation obligated to provide them. I encourage all clergy and vestries to work together in discerning how their congregation will move forward with this new possibility and in providing pastoral care to all.

I am profoundly grateful for the Supreme Court's decision, in its implications for all LGBT children of God, its direct response to my own beloved friends, colleagues, and family members, and through a personal connection I have to the Obergefell case. At the same time, I recognize that some in our church are equally disappointed by it. I hold those whose lives and love are affirmed by this action and those whose hearts are grieved by it in my prayers, and I am confident that you will do the same.

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A statement from the Rt. Rev. Thomas E. Breidenthal, Bishop of Southern Ohio

I want to touch base with you on the day that the Supreme Court has mandated the right of all people to be married -- men to men, women to women, men and women, across all the states. I know that whatever your opinion of that ruling may be, that you will join me in honoring it -- because it is now law -- and that we will all take our part in making sure that as Ohio moves into a new legal situation, we do so with respect and with care for the dignity of the law and, more importantly, the dignity of every human being.

However, I am sure you'll not be surprised to know that I am elated by the decision. I have long been convinced that union of two men or two women in fidelity and lifelong, is every much an occasion for the sanctification of nearness, of love of neighbor, as marriage is traditionally understood.

I will move as quickly as possible to insure integrate this new possibility into our church life in Southern Ohio. However, we won't just jump into immediately, because this is too important a matter to treat in that way, so I will be in consultation with the Standing Committee, and with diocesan counsel, and with anyone else who wishes to be in conversation with me, once I get back from General Convention, so that we can with all deliberate haste make sure that our polices are clearly in place so that we know how to move forward to make marriage for all a reality in the Diocese of Southern Ohio.

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A statement from The Rt. Rev. Whayne Hougland of the Diocese of Western Michigan on his reflections on the SCOTUS Marriage Ruling.

Today my heart is full of joy and happiness upon receiving the news of the Supreme Court's decision making same-sex marriage legal nationwide. Our baptismal covenant calls us to respect the dignity of every human being. This decision does just this and reminds us that in the end love always wins.

The decision speaks for itself, but I encourage you to read this paragraph from court's decision; it is beautiful and moving:

"No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were. As some of the petitioners in these cases demonstrate, marriage embodies a love that may endure even past death. It would misunderstand these men and women to say they disrespect the idea of marriage. Their plea is that they do respect it, respect it so deeply that they seek to find its fulfillment for themselves. Their hope is not to be condemned to live in loneliness, excluded from one of civilization's oldest institutions. They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right."

May the peace God fill us and lift us now and always.

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A statement from Bishop Suffragan Paul Lambert of the Diocese of Dallas reaction to SCOTUS vote on same sex marriage

The Supreme Court ruling will change the landscape for civil marriages across the United States. It remains to be seen what the Episcopal Church will say as the marriage issue is still in the legislative committee process. As for the Diocese of Dallas, our policies will stay in place and our canons are still in effect as we see marriage as a religious issue defined by the Holy Scripture.

Please continue to pray for the deputation and me as we continue to navigate these troubled waters. May God bless you and keep you.

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A joint statement from bishops of the Episcopal Diocese of Ft. Worth; The Right Rev. Rayford B. High, Jr., provisional bishop, Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth and The Right Rev. J. Scott Mayer, provisional bishop-elect, Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth and Bishop of Northwest Texas

We are gratified at today's Supreme Court ruling on same sex marriage. This is a decision that effects our civil rights, and we are grateful for it. As we write this, The Episcopal Church is in discernment about what this means for our church life.

We are aware of the rich diversity of opinions held on this topic. We are also aware that for many this is not an "issue," but something that touches directly on their lives and their faithfulness in love.

As we live into this new reality in our nation and reflect on how it will echo in our church, let us always remember that we are sisters and brothers bound together in the love of Jesus Christ. God loves us all. No exceptions.

Pray for your bishops and deputies as we deliberate in the midst of this new paradigm.

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A Statement from The Rt. Rev. Ed Koniezny Bishop of the Diocese of Oklahoma regarding the Decision by the Supreme Court of the United States

This morning, in a historic decision, the Supreme Court ruled 5 - 4 in favor of same-sex marriage in the Obergefell v. Hodges case. This ruling outlines that all states must recognize same-sex marriage, and no state may pass laws discriminating against same-sex marriage.

Evaluation and assessment is currently underway to determine how this decision may impact the work of General Convention and pending resolutions.

This decision in no way alters our current diocesan policies, which can be found on our diocesan website. However, we will carefully evaluate the implications of this decision and assess how it may or may not alter our diocesan policies in the near future.

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Texas bishops, The Rt. Rev. Andrew Doyle (Ordinary), Dena Harrison (Suffragan) and Jeff Fisher (Suffragan) made the following Statement Regarding A036 "Amended Canon 1.18 on Marriage"

Background

The House of Bishops of the 78th General Convention meeting in Salt Lake City, today approved resolution A036, that rewrote canon to ensure that those who wish to bless a same-sex marriage are free from discipline if they have permission of their bishop; allow for use of liturgies with bishop's permission and continued language of fidelity from the previous canon. Bishop Andy Doyle wrote the following in response:

Statement from Bishops

Bishop Doyle promised in the Unity and Mission paper published in 2012, that he would not approve the rites of same-sex blessing at the 77th General Convention. He voted no at that General Convention. Following the 2012 General Convention we in the Diocese of Texas together moved forward allowing space for congregations to do same-sex blessings. We upheld and continue to uphold the 1979 Book of Common Prayer definition of marriage. We continue to use the blessing of same-sex relationships in the congregations who have been approved to do so.

Bishop Doyle said, "Today when the vote regarding A036 came forward, I prayed and I changed my vote in my heart six times. I was conflicted because of my love for all the people I shepherd in the Diocese. I love you all and your division is a very real division in my own heart. In the end I made a decision that my faithful response to the whole Diocese of Texas was that I could not vote against our LGBT parishioners nor was I willing to vote against our traditionalist parishioners. I discerned then that my faithful response was to abstain. Abstentions count as a "no" vote. The vote on the canon today does not change the definition of marriage as included in the 1979 BCP or in the Constitution of the Episcopal Church."

While Bishop Fisher and Bishop Harrison voted "no" on A036, all three bishops hold the following convictions: 1) the discussion on the issue of same-sex relationships has not, in our opinion, engaged Holy Scripture as it should, 2) our Christian partners throughout the Anglican Communion and the world, and even in other denominations in our own country, have not been properly brought into our conversation, 3) the Supreme Court decision, while lauded by many, should not drive our theological conversations and decisions, 4) we believe any process to revise the marriage canons properly belongs in the context of a constitutional process of prayer book revision and not in an isolated action. (Bishop Doyle's article on the constitution and prayer book can be found here.)

We are concerned about the order and processes of our common life. We believe that the way we respect the differences among us is by honoring the processes upon which we have agreed.

All three bishops also support all people in our diocese including GLBT parishioners. We value the gifts and contributions of all the followers of Jesus. We are committed to ongoing conversation and pastoral sensitivity to persons representing the entire range of opinion on these matters.

The current policies governing marriage, remarriage, and same-gender blessings in the Diocese of Texas continue in effect.

No clergy person is required by the state or by canon to perform marriages or blessings. What is clear as of the Supreme Court Ruling is that the State will recognize the Episcopal Church rite for same-gender blessing, approved in 2012 and used in the Diocese of Texas, as a legally binding marriage if a marriage license is obtained. All requirements to officiate at a blessing and/or marriages as defined in our canons and in our policy manual remain in effect including counseling and approvals of the bishop where applicable.

Bishop Doyle will work to discern which liturgies will be available for use in the Diocese of Texas. We will both follow the law and we will also discern the appropriate course pastorally for our parishioners.

While some will be elated at this decision still others will be disheartened. Christians are not mean and do not demean one another. Our expectation is that the people of the Diocese of Texas will model compassion and love for one another. We are to care for one another as we take our steps through the days and months to come.

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A statement from the Rt. Rev. Dan Thomas Edwards of Nevada

The news of the day here in SLC is pretty tentative and calm. We had a joint session -- Deputies and Bishops -- discussing structure -- not the proposals for structural change that will be on the agenda, but just generally. I was part of a group made up of half the Nevadans talking with half the Deputies from Lexington. We had a really good conversation and learned a lot about church life in our very different worlds.

The Stewardship Committee then went through a laborious boring beyond belief process of perfecting a resolution recognizing that the Development office raised a lot of money last triennium and encouraging them to continue doing their job. But then we got to talking about how the Convention Eucharists STILL (despite three years of our urging) do not present the alms at the altar or designate their purpose. (At this point, there was originally a rant about how utterly and outrageously wrong this is. I have been persuaded by calmer heads to spare you my less attractive sentiments). So we are in a bit of an uprising mode. We shall see if a more vigorous statement and persistence will make some headway. A positive note on today's worship: we had good music by The Theodicy Jazz Ensemble and an engaging sermon by House of Deputies President, Gay Jennings.

The Bishops legislative meeting was pretty straightforward. We had various and sundry legislative matters and passed them all. Nothing dramatic or controversial. The hard issues are down the road.

The real event today happened in D.C., the Supreme Court ruling legalizing same gender marriage in all states -- not to be confused with all dioceses, as we are a church in 17 nations. This does, however, constitute a landmark shift in the way our society recognizes family relationships; so the Church will be called upon to express a spiritual understanding of these relationships. We already bless same gender unions. Where those unions are legally recognized as marriages, we acknowledge that legal status as part of the blessing. We have on the agenda a proposal to recognize the spiritual significance of same gender bonds on a higher level. I think it is quite likely we will do that. Exactly how the new approach will be framed is still being worked out, but I think we are likely to do something along this line. In the next few days I'll be reporting on that.

But first I want to consider an underlying question of how we think about all our decisions and actions.

Of course, some Episcopalians, like many Christians of other denominations, believe same gender relationships are morally wrong and should not be blessed at all. I disagree. See Live From Anatolia: Part 1. http://bishopdansblog.blogspot.com/2015/05/live-from-anatolia-part-1-paul-law-and.html and Nicaea, Constantinople, and Salt Lake City. http://bishopdansblog.blogspot.com/2015/04/nicaea-constantinople-salt-lake-city.html But as I said in the Nicaea blog, there are dissenters at this meeting and there will be dissenters after this meeting whatever we do. So, simply stated, there are dissenters. That may seem obvious, but some of my social media friends think there is actually unanimous and universal acceptance of the 5-4 decision of the Court. It ain't so.

Now, here's where we come to the issue. Dissenters have two complaints against the LGBTQ inclusion advocates. We may, on the one hand, leave faith out of it and just go for the political value of inclusion. We are doing what we do because we politically want to do it, regardless of God. That sometimes happens and I share the conservative's objection to a godless politics.

On the other hand, we may claim that LGBTQ inclusion is the will of God. I decidedly want to make a case for that, as I did partially in Live From Anatolia I post. But the conservatives object that this invocation of God stigmatizes them, shuts down dissent, and cuts off conversation. True, these liberals are speaking in the language of Amos and Hosea, but Amos and Hosea were not the kind of guys you could have a beer with and talk things over.

I believe that it is incumbent upon us as Christians to seek God's will and act upon it in all things, most especially relationship matters like marriage. We have to make a theological case for same gender marriage if we are going to do it. The fact that it's legal doesn't mean we have to honor it religiously. We choose to honor and bless same gender marriages not because the state says so but because we believe God calls us to do so.

However, it is irreverent to claim too much certainty about God's will. God is an infinite mystery so we may have a sense of God's will but we cannot have certainty. The danger is doing what we want and drafting God to support our position. I am often tempted to do just that and I suspect that others may face the same temptation.

So the challenge of Christian tolerance, according to Reinhold Niebuhr, is to boldly proclaim God's truth as best we know it, but at the same time hold the humility to remember we could be wrong. That keeps the door open for conversation with people who disagree with us. In conversation, we are quite likely to learn things, to build relationships, to grow in grace. That is not possible if we do not say what we believe with a "Thus sayeth the Lord" boldness. A know-nothing shrug of the shoulders does not evoke conversational response. But on the other hand, we need the humility to listen to someone else and try to understand their perspective.

"Winning" a Supreme Court case and "winning" a General Convention proposal for same gender marriage is not the end of the conversation. It should be the beginning in which we continue to respect those who disagree and listen with open hearts to their concerns. I am deeply convinced that life will be richer for all concerned if we continue our dialogue grounded in a Christ-based mutuality of care and respect. The thing we really need to win is each other for Christ.

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On the right to marry. A statement from the Rt. Rev. Michael Hanley of the Diocese of Oregon

My sisters and brothers in Christ:

"I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13: 34-35

As we celebrate the Supreme Court's decision on equal rights to marry, I find myself deeply grateful for the love of my spouse and, consequently, glad that lesbian and gay sisters and brothers long denied this basic human right now find that their commitment to love and fidelity has been affirmed in all of the United States of America. This is the time to celebrate the triumph of love over the forces of indifference and hate.

Jesus calls us to the hard work of loving each other with God's radical love for God's people. This love endures no matter the challenges, no matter the consequences, no matter the struggle. In a world filled with a constant barrage of violence and hatred, it is good to recall that God is love and that love abides. I pray in thanksgiving for the love you have found and share with others this day.

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