MAINE: Bishop Richard Malone Vows He Has Not "Backed Down" On Marriage

Maine's Bishop Richard Malone has penned a letter to the New York Times in which he denies reports that the Catholic Church plans to stay out of the marriage battle this time.

I have not backed down in the church’s defense of marriage. Although not a member of the current political action committee, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland is playing a crucial role in November’s vote, launching a communication and educational effort based on my pastoral letter. This document is intended to educate all people of good will about the truth and beauty of marriage as it has been preserved for millenniums by society and various religions. Objectively, the essence of marriage can only be the union of one man and one woman open to the new life of children, whom they nurture in their irreplaceable roles as father and mother. Faithful Catholics will continue to defend God’s plan for marriage through its preaching and teaching and in the public square.