The Dialog

By George P. Matysek Jr.

Catholic News Service

BALTIMORE — The Maryland Catholic Conference’s executive director, vowing to work with others to bring the measure to a referendum, said the people of the state “will be outraged” at how quickly the bill to legalize same-sex marriage made it through the Legislature to final passage.

The state Senate approved it 25-22 the evening of Feb. 23 after deliberating just 48 hours. The House of Delegates had already approved the bill Feb. 17, and Gov. Martin J. O’Malley, the bill’s sponsor, has pledged to sign it quickly into law.

Read more »

By George P. Matysek Jr.

Catholic Review (Baltimore)

 ANNAPOLIS – Leaders of the Maryland Catholic Conference (MCC) expect no shortage of controversy in the 90-day session of the Maryland General Assembly that begins today, Jan. 11.

Proposals to legalize same-sex marriage, end the death penalty and cut approximately $500 million from the budget are expected to generate passionate debate and dominate much of the session, according to the MCC.

Read more »

By George P. Matysek Jr.

Catholic News Service

BALTIMORE  – Leaders of a newly formed pro-marriage coalition came out swinging against efforts to legalize same-sex marriage in Maryland, pledging in a Nov. 30 news conference to rally citizens across the state to defeat legislation that would alter the traditional definition of marriage.

Gathered at First Apostolic Faith Church International in Baltimore, representatives of the interfaith, nonpartisan Maryland Marriage Alliance said they will not be intimidated by those who would call their position “bigoted.”

Read more »