BOSTON, Massachusetts, NOV. 14, 2008 (Zenit.org).- The bishops of Massachusetts are defending the institution of marriage in the face of advertising in the state that promotes adultery.
The bishops said they were “compelled to speak in support of marriage” after seeing advertisements of an Internet dating site for married people looking for adulterous relationships.
The statement was published today and signed by Cardinal Sean O’Malley, the archbishop of Boston, Bishop Timothy McDonnell of Springfield, Bishop George Coleman of Fall River and Bishop Robert McManus of Worcester.
“This wrongful enterprise threatens not only the oldest and most foundational of human institutions but also the common good of all,” the bishops said. “Marriage requires honesty, loyalty, trust, self-sacrifice, personal responsibility, respect, and commitment.
“Marriage is a vocation that benefits all of society by building and strengthening human relationships within the family home and beyond with relatives, neighbors and one’s community. Marriage is the basis for the family, the fundamental human society. A healthy committed marriage helps to insure the well-being of children, create social stability and improve the quality of life for all citizens.”
The prelates said the advertising “will not benefit families and the ads send the wrong message to our young.”
“The ad campaign will further erode the unique and important role that marriage has in contributing to the common good,” they said. “Where marriage is weakened the social cost is enormous.”
Commending the media outlets that refused the ads, the bishops asked more to do the same.
“We honor and support those couples who have committed themselves to each other in the vocation of marriage,” they added, “and offer prayers that they remain strong in the face of increasing social pressures to abandon their promise of fidelity.”
