RI's Catholic bishop calls same-sex marriage compromise bill 'eminently reasonable'

March 14, 2013 11:32 am

By Maria Caporizzo

PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- A day after one of the leading opponents of same-sex marriage in the Senate introduced a bill that would put the question to voters while exempting certain individuals and groups from having to officiate or provide services, the leader of the state's Roman Catholic Church calls the proposal "an eminently reasonable approach."

Sen. Frank Ciccone introduced a bill Wednesday that would potentially allow same-gender couples in Rhode Island to marry, but exempt priests, rabbis, fraternal societies and "any small business" from having to officiate or provide services.

"We will continue to vigorously oppose efforts to redefine the institution of marriage in Rhode Island," the Most Rev. Thomas J. Tobin, bishop of the Diocese of Providence, said in a statement.   To Read More...