Once again, we read of Paul Madore denouncing civil rights for the gay and lesbian community. Though this time I’m surprised to find myself agreeing with him on one point anyway. The Rev. Michael Seavey should not wear a Roman collar in a public forum while voicing his personal opinion. To do so implies that he is speaking for the Catholic Church.

This being said, I must say I agree with Seavey’s personal opinion. This law, specifically limited to discrimination and specifically excluding gay marriage, is a secular law designed to provide equal treatment for a community historically discriminated against.

I am currently taking a course on the New Testament, and I cannot find a single instance where Jesus or any of the disciples or apostles lobbied the Roman government so that Roman law would reflect the teachings of Jesus. Yet, I find numerous instances where Jesus took the priests, Pharisees and Sadducees to task for their interpretation of Mosaic law while having little regard for mercy or forgiveness. But probably the most important revelation I have had while studying Paul’s letters concerns the use of the Bible. The Bible is not a weapon with which to beat someone up; it’s a tool with which you measure yourself.

Yes, we do need to obey God and follow his law. But we need to do it of our own accord because we fear and love our God, not because there will be civil penalties if we don’t.

John West, Lewiston