Statement following the action by the Vermont State Legislature on S-115,
Marriage Equality
The Right Reverend Thomas C. Ely, Bishop of Vermont
April 7, 2009

I appreciate the hard work and commitment of our State Legislature in protecting and providing for the human and civil rights of the citizens of Vermont, especially the gay and lesbian residents of our state, through the final enactment of S-115 today. The spirited and often emotional debate surrounding this legislation was for the most part conducted with respect and decorum. The democratic legislative process has run its course. All voices have been heard. A decision has been reached. Vermont now enters an important chapter in its history during which we will live into this expanded understanding and practice of civil marriage equality, and my sincere hope is that mutual respect and forbearance will prevail.

For many this is a time of profound exhilaration and an affirmation of the equality of their faithful, committed and loving relationships. For others the joy comes in seeing both the tangible and intangible provisions of civil marriage provided to our gay and lesbian neighbors, friends and family members. Yet there are also those who view this change as wrong, hard to understand, and difficult to accept. I urge all citizens of Vermont, and especially people of faith, to exhibit abundant charity and respect toward one another in the days, weeks and months ahead as we experience this new legal reality in our state.

I hope this decision on the part of our State Legislature will inspire other states to enact comparable legislation and that ultimately the legal provisions of full marriage equality will be provided to all citizens of the United States. Meanwhile, my pledge as bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Vermont is to continue our denomination’s historic and strong voice for human and civil rights as an expression of the biblical call to love mercy, do justice, and walk humbly with our God.

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