Part 1 - Archbishop John Nienstedt 's Message to Catholics on Marriage

This is Part 1 of a two-part educational program on preserving marriage in Minnesota sent to Catholic households throughout the state. Bishops of Minnesota's six dioceses have launched this educational program in response to legislation, introduced earlier this year in the Minnesota state legislature that would change the definition of marriage.

The educational materials include an introductory letter from each local bishop and a DVD video. The video features a brief statement from The Most Reverend John Nienstedt, Archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, that reviews Catholic teaching on marriage and describes current challenges to this centuries' old institution.

It also includes a 12 minute program entitled "One Man, One Woman-Marriage and the Common Good "produced by the Knights of Columbus.

"Thirty one states have adopted constitutional amendments preserving the definition of marriage as being between one man and one woman", explained Christopher Leifeld, Executive Director of the Minnesota Catholic Conference. "Protecting marriage in this way benefits children, families and the common good of society itself. The Minnesota Catholic Bishops agree that Minnesota should follow this lead and let the people of Minnesota decide this issue rather than judges or legislatures."

The six bishops of Minnesota support and have endorsed this educational effort begun today, teaching the fullness of the Catholic tradition and faith regarding marriage , which is both their obligation and privilege " Leifeld continued. " They bear witness to a truth that is given by God in the natural order of creation and confirmed by divine revelation in scripture, namely that marriage has always been and should continue to be a union of one man and one woman."

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