Contact: Kenneth Chan, National Religious Broadcasters, 703-331-4520, press@nrb.org
MANASSAS, Va., June 26, 2015 /Christian Newswire/ -- NRB is repulsed by the Supreme Court's decision today to undermine the institution of marriage by imposing "gay marriage" nationwide. Moreover, taking note of Chief Justice John Roberts' dissenting opinion, NRB is concerned about the Court's intentions for the clearly delineated guarantee in the U.S. Constitution that citizens may freely exercise their religion.
Dr. Jerry A. Johnson, President & CEO of NRB, declared, "This judicial activism is a slap at democratic governance and shows disdain for a holy institution that has been the bedrock of human society for millennia."
While the Court's majority ruling, written by Justice Anthony Kennedy, does not completely ignore the First Amendment, its wording is alarming. Justice Kennedy emphasizes that people of faith "may continue to advocate with utmost, sincere conviction that, by divine precepts, same-sex marriage should not be condoned" and that the Constitution protects them "as they seek to teach the principles that are so fulfilling and so central to their lives and faiths."
However, in his dissenting opinion, Chief Justice John Roberts warns that "accommodations" for the faithful are at risk. He cautions, "The majority graciously suggests that religious believers may continue to 'advocate' and 'teach' their views of marriage…. The First Amendment guarantees, however, the freedom to 'exercise' religion. Ominously, that is not a word the majority uses."
"Christians citizens must be free to believe, free to speak, and free to obey what the Bible says about marriage – in and out of church, seven days a week," stated Dr. Johnson. "Especially after the Obama Administration's shocking admission to the Court, which somehow did not dissuade this ruling, we need the First Amendment Defense Act."
During oral arguments in Obergefell v. Hodges before the Supreme Court, when asked if a ruling imposing "gay marriage" nationwide could lead to a college potentially losing its tax-exempt status for adhering to its convictions on marriage, U.S. Solicitor General Donald Verrilli stated, "…it's certainly going to be an issue…. I don't deny that, Justice Alito. It is – it is going to be an issue."
NRB supports the First Amendment Defense Act (S. 1598, H.R. 2802) and similar state legislation that would bar the government from threatening the tax treatment, grant, contract, license, or certification of individuals or organizations that uphold their religious conviction that marriage is the union of one man and one woman.
"Roe did not end the debate on abortion; rather it sparked new energy in the battle to defend the sanctity of human life. This ruling will not be the end for marriage," Dr. Johnson proclaimed.
About NRB
The National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) is a non-partisan, international association of Christian communicators whose member organizations represent millions of listeners, viewers, and readers. Our mission is to advance biblical truth; to promote media excellence; and to defend free speech. In addition to promoting standards of excellence, integrity, and accountability, NRB provides networking, educational, ministry, and fellowship opportunities for its members. Learn more at www.nrb.org.
About the NRB Convention
The annual NRB International Christian Media Convention is the largest nationally and internationally recognized event dedicated solely to assist those in the field of Christian communications. The dynamic Exposition consists of around 200 companies and is an active marketplace for those seeking tools and services to expand their organizations. NRB 2016 will be held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, TN, February 23-26, 2016. For more information, go to www.nrbconvention.org.
