PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Roman Catholic Bishop Thomas Tobin says he is "profoundly disappointed" that Rhode Island has become the 10th state in the nation to "legitimize" same-sex marriage, and on Thursday asked Catholics to examine their consciences before deciding to endorse or go to a same-sex marriage ceremony.
He said the church has always viewed homosexual acts as objectively sinful, and had worked "very hard" to oppose "this immoral and unnecessary proposition."
At the same time the bishop said he prays for God's blessings on those who have same-sex attractions that "they will enjoy much health, happiness and peace."
He said, "We also offer our prayerful support to families, especially parents, who often struggle with this issue when it occurs in their own homes."
By Richard C. Dujardin