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>>Madeleine Beard: Thank you Mr. Chairman and members of the committee,
I am Madeleine Beard the coordinator for public policy for the
Episcopal diesis of Maryland. The Episcopal church has wrestled for
many years with the question of marriage and in 2006 we agreed there is
an asperity to promote conversation between persons of different
experiences and perspectives, while acknowledging the churches
teachings on the sanctity of marriage. While the whole Episcopal church
is not one mind on the question; the church adheres and has opposed and
will continue to oppose any effort to prohibit same sex marriage.
Earlier in 2000, the Episcopal church acknowledged that while issues of
human sexuality are not resolved, there are currently couples in the
body of Christ and in this church who are living in marriage and
couples in the body of Christ and in this church who are living in
other lifelong committed relationships. We expect such relationships,
although characterized by fidelity, monogamy, mutual affection, and
respect, careful and honest communication, and the holy law with
enables those in such relationships to see in each other the image of
God. To that end, the Episcopal church today is committed to creation
of liturgies that are used to bless same sex couples. It states where
same sex marriages are legal, Episcopal clergies have the option of
offering a pastoral response to couples who seek a blessing from the
church. Marylanders deserve the same legal opportunity. We share with
you that it is critically important to protect religious freedom and we
fully intend that the marriage bill goes through. Accordingly, the
public policy office of the diesis of Maryland asks the committee to
send the Bill to the Senate with an affirmative recommendation that the
senate approve the Bill and send it to the House of Delegates, and that
it reaches the Governors desk for signature.