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Statement on the Supreme Court Ruling on Same-Sex Marriage

June 27, 2015

COLLEYVILLE, TX. June 27, 2015 -- After the Supreme Court ruling on same-sex marriage, His Grace is releasing the following message.

"Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" (Isaiah 5:20)

The Supreme Court decision on Friday, June 26, 2015, sanctioning same-sex marriages in all fifty states is the result of years of desensitization, which has sadly now culminated in the poorest spiritual and social aberrance in the history of the American judicial system. The moral conscience of our society has gone awry.

Advocates for same-sex marriages parade their high regard for the concept of marriage, but neglect to acknowledge that in most religions, marriage is not merely a political right, but a spiritual union between one man and one woman consecrated by God. God is the Author of marital law.

It is perplexing that many leaders of various religious institutions have kept their peace regarding this matter. People have chosen to remain silent, not because they applaud this decision, but lest they are perceived to be intolerant is a risk many do not wish to take. Thus, conservative Christians are commonly attacked or ostracized for taking a stand against same-sex marriages or other deviances.

After this infamous ruling of the Supreme Court, we are praying for our country that the Lord may enlighten the eyes and hearts of our leaders to not be in opposition to God's will, but rather to return and follow the teachings of the Holy Scripture so that God may bless our country with prosperity and peace.

All Christians ought to dedicate a special fast and offer solemn prayers and supplications for all people of our nation so that God may lead all of us to repentance and the sincere desire to do what is good and pleasing in His eyes.

Bishop Youssef
Bishop, Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States