Vt. Clergy
Members Support Marriage Equality

One hundred eighty-two clergy members representing nine religious denominations have signed a declaration in support of same-sex marriage in Vermont.

An excerpt of the declaration reads, "As religious people, clergy, and leaders, we commit ourselves to public action, visibility, and education to support the right and freedom of same-gender couples to participate in civil marriage. We oppose the application of sacred texts and religious traditions for the purpose of denying legal and social equity to same-gender couples."

Though many clergy members had the support of their congregations, they did not necessarily have the support of their churches' governing bodies.

The Vermont senate judiciary committee will begin hearings on marriage equality legislation next Monday in Montpelier.