Like many practicing Catholics in the Lewiston-Auburn area, I am saddened by Bishop Malone’s insistent public focus on the November referendum on marriage in Maine.

Jesus Christ, whose life and teachings should be central to our own practice, made radical and encompassing love his mission. He observed that we would all be judged (by God) primarily on the basis of our love and attention to those who need it: the poor, sick and outcast. These societal “others” — as they are often seen — belong to us and are of us, and they offer us God’s own grace if we recognize them as so belonging.

Christ did not harp on social or institutional distinctions and, indeed, he evinced irritation with those who did.

As an adoptive mother, I cherish my family not as a biological entity, but as an opportunity to love, within the secure domestic space that my husband and I (happily) can afford.

I hope that the people of Maine, especially in this time of grievous hardship for so many, can respect all those who want to love and take care of each other as family, and who might be able to extend that loving care to some of Maine’s desperately needy children.

Laurie O’Higgins, Lewiston