Marriage Initiative Information from State Deputy

January 18, 2008

James R. Scroggin
3303 W. Wellington Ln.
Fresno, CA 93711-1167

Dear Worthy State Deputy and Brother Jim,

The California Catholic Conference has set as one of its legislative priorities the defense and support of “the institution of marriage between a man and a woman as the basic foundation of society.” This principle was approved as law by over 60% of voters in favor of Proposition 22 in the year 2000. However, this law is now at risk of being overturned by the California Supreme Court later this year, when it rules on the question of its constitutionality. Moreover, our state legislature has attempted to pass a law to legalize same-sex marriage, thus thwarting the will of the voters.

For this reason, the Protect Marriage group, which originally filed Proposition 22, has now filed an initiative to amend the California state constitution to define marriage as the union of a man and a woman, thereby granting it immunity from the courts and the legislature. I have been personally supporting a group of Catholics here in San Diego who are working with Protect Marriage to qualify this initiative for the November ballot.

Many things have to happen to make this possible, not the least of which is the collection of 1.1 million signatures by mid-April. The efforts of the Knights of Columbus in our state can be an important factor in making this happen. However, if and to the extent that any signature gathering takes place on parish property, it must, of course, be carried out in accordance with the position and under the direction of the local bishop and parish pastor. This principle must be clearly born in mind and respected.

At the same time, please know that any support which the Knights of Columbus can give to this most critical endeavor would be greatly appreciated by all of us who are working to get the marriage amendment intiative put on the ballot for the election this November.

Taking this occasion to extend to you my sentiments of esteem and best wishes, I remain,

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Rev. Salvatore Cordileone
Auxiliary Bishop of California