Several articles in recent issues of The Catholic Messenger reveal that the bishops of Iowa are attempting to persuade the State Legislature to take the initiative toward amending the Iowa Constitution regarding marriage.
The principal stated justification for doing so is that marriage rights for gays and lesbians constitute a threat to traditional marriage and family.
If the bishops are truly intent on preserving marriage and family, emphasis should be placed on dealing with the real threats: adultery, spousal and child abuse, alcoholism, lack of effective communication, neglect, drugs and divorce. These are some of the major things that cause marriages and families to break down.
Denying the civil right of gays and lesbians to marry will not save traditional marriage and family; attacking the real threats will.
Joe Gross
Donahue