When a federal
judge cleared the legal path for same-sex marriage in North Carolina earlier
this month, it set off a flurry of weddings and celebrations … mostly in urban
areas of the state. But the joy was
hardly unanimous … particularly among some public officials whose jobs include
performing marriages. At least 6-magistrates
have quit or announced their resignations since same-sex marriages became legal
October 10. Some left 20-year jobs that
paid more than $50,000. Their decisions,
they said, were based on religious convictions.
Rockingham County Magistrate John
Kallam, Jr. said carrying out gay marriages would violate his religious beliefs
and “would desecrate a holy institution established by God Himself.” [Kallam’s last day will be October 31.]
Swain County Magistrate Gilbert
Breedlove expressed the same sentiments, telling WTVD that marrying gay and lesbian couples violates his religious
beliefs. [Breedlove’s last day was October
20.]
The resignations began 1-day after
North Carolina magistrates were ordered to perform civil marriages for same-sex
couples or face suspension or dismissal. The directive came after Elizabeth City
Magistrate Gary Littleton refused to conduct gay marriages.
Chief District Court Judge
Christopher Bean said that if Littleton keeps refusing to issue same-sex
marriage licenses, he must resign or face removal.
North Carolina
Attorney General Roy Cooper said there were no more legal options left and Gov.
Pat McCrory said all state agencies would comply with the federal decision.
Apparently, the
North Carolina Governor and Attorney General having read the U.S. Constitution!
Rev.
Dr. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr.
Chaplain
(Colonel-Ret), U.S. Army
Pastor, Ft. Snelling Memorial Chapel
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