By Richard C. Dujardin
PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Acknowledging that there may be clergy in his diocese who will disagree with him, Rhode Island Episcopal Bishop W. Nicholas Knisely came out in support Friday for same-sex marriage in in Rhode Island.
"The Episcopal Church has been blessed for many years by the life and ministry of gay and lesbian couples, both lay and ordained," he said in a letter to clergy.
"I have seen how they contribute to the common good of a congregation and a community by creating stable, loving homes. As a new citizen of Rhode Island" -- Knisely was installed Nov. 17 -- "I am eager to see our state legislature join many others across the country in passing legislation to ensure civil marriage equality."