Local UCC supports same-sex marriage

MEXICO — Delegates from the Oxford-Union Association United Church of Christ voted to support same-sex marriage during its semi-annual meeting, held in Mexico October 21.

Question 1, a referendum to allow the state to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, is on the November 6 ballot.

Delegates felt that marriage strengthened family bonds, benefited communities and promoted the welfare of children and believed all individuals should have the right to marry in Maine.

"Theologically and Biblically, there is no justification for denying any convented couples the blessing of the church or equal protection  under the law that marriage provides," said Jane Chandler, the Association's scribe, in a press release. 

"All individuals have a right to have a civil marriage licenses recognized and respected by all civil entities."

"Therefore, the delegates ... stand in support of Referendum 1 in the Nov. 6 election, affirming the right for all to marry."

The Oxford Union Association is part of the Maine Conference United Church of Christ.

Churches in Oxford, Norway, West Paris, Harrison, Sumner, Waterford, Poland and Mechanic Falls are represented in the Association, according to the Maine Conference, UCC website.

United Church of Christ became the first mainline Christian denomination to support same-sex marriage officially when its general synod passed a resolution in 2005 affirming "equal marriage rights for couples regardless of gender."