Pastors Urge Virginians to Vote Against Abortion and Same-Sex Marriage Amendments

Over 150 pastors in Virginia have come together to sign an open letter encouraging residents to vote “no” on proposed amendments aimed at enshrining abortion rights and same-sex marriage in the state constitution.

From September 18 to November 3, during the early voting and election period, Virginians will be asked to weigh in on Questions 1 and 2. These amendments, according to the coalition of pastors, are harmful to human well-being and contradict their interpretation of biblical teachings. Question 1 seeks to establish abortion as a constitutional right at any point during pregnancy, while Question 2 aims to change the definition of marriage from a union between one man and one woman to a more inclusive interpretation for any two adults.

“As citizens of Virginia, we have a moral duty to vote for the common good,” the letter states. “We are interconnected for one another’s welfare, and we should not allow these amendments to define our state constitution in ways that could be detrimental.”

The letter points out that voters should especially reject the abortion amendment, arguing that it could lead to further harm to unborn children. Currently, abortion is permitted in Virginia up to 26 weeks and six days into the pregnancy. The proposed amendment would categorize abortion as a “fundamental right” and would authorize women to make a wide range of decisions regarding prenatal care and abortion access during third-trimester pregnancies unless the health of the mother is at stake.

“All human life is sacred and created by God in His image. This includes pre-born babies, the elderly, and those with physical or mental challenges. We must defend and value every human life at all stages,” the pastors wrote. They emphasized that children’s right to life should be safeguarded, and every child, whether born or unborn, should be cherished.

They go on to say that “abortion is the killing of a pre-born child,” framing it as a violation of moral principles and questioning the categorization of abortion as health care. They stress that mothers should nurture the life within them, and medical professionals should take every human life seriously, especially the most vulnerable ones.

They also appeal directly to mothers contemplating abortion, insisting that unborn children have a fundamental right “to be born, to live, and to breathe.” They contend that there is no parental right to end a child’s life and that society should not grant such a right to its most vulnerable members, urging voters to reject Amendment 1.

Regarding the same-sex marriage amendment, the pastors assert that God alone defines gender, and that marriage should be viewed exclusively as the union of one man and one woman, as stated in the Bible. Question 2 seeks to eliminate the ban on same-sex marriage and ensure that all legally recognized marriages receive equal treatment.

“God instituted marriage, and it was designed to reflect the relationship between Christ and the church,” their letter explains. They reinforce that redefining marriage is both presumptuous and misguided.

The pastors express concern that dismissing these truths can harm society on multiple levels. “Denying objective realities can lead to a ripple effect of harm experienced by individuals and communities,” they write.

“We must not reject fundamental truths of creation. Therefore, we call on all voters in Virginia to oppose Amendment 2 as well.” They acknowledge their disagreement with many residents, emphasizing that the truths regarding life and marriage stem from divine authority rather than personal belief.

Love, they argue, must be grounded in truth and should promote the well-being of others, not remain silent during critical moments. They assure readers of their rejection of any hostile actions towards those with differing opinions. This letter is rooted in care for the Commonwealth, they note, acknowledging the human condition and the need for grace through faith in Christ.

In closing, the pastors encourage citizens to explore their faith and seek God, inviting everyone to attend church and engage with the Scriptures. They urge Virginians to unite in prayer for the state, emphasizing the importance of voting “no” on both amendments.

A pastor involved in organizing the letter mentioned that it represents at least 90 churches, which collectively reach over 50,000 congregants throughout Virginia.

This movement follows a significant effort led by Bishop Michael Burbidge from the Diocese of Arlington, who had clergy in many Northern Virginia parishes read letters opposing the amendments during Mass. This initiative built on a prior joint statement he issued with another bishop.