By Definition wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:03 AM:I'll define same-sex unions as "marriage" when I see checkerboards with all red squares, weekends with two Saturdays, and light switches with two "on" positions.

sjs wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:14 AM:Get a life! It affects you in no way. To each their own.

Gaydar Overload wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:17 AM:OK, great. Now that you've had your 15 minutes of fame by skipping around and getting your picture in the paper, please resume a life.

Minister wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:23 AM:As commanded by God, I will Not, Shall not or ever preform a same sex marriage. I'm just waiting to see when the first same sex couple will sue me for discrimination. I'm ready, because God will be with me when this happens.

Congrats wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:41 AM:Congratulations to all couples marrying! And to Minister - Your God doesn't rule my world. Get over yourself.

Writing on the wall wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:43 AM:The end is coming soon, save yourself through Jesus Christ now, for we do not know the time he is coming. Live every day as if it is the last. God will take us home soon.

To Congrats wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:46 AM:My God does rule over your world. Accept Jesus as your savior , I promise you won't regret it. God wants all his children to turn away from sin. That includes you too. His door is open to receive you when ever you are ready. God Bless you.

To Minister wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:49 AM:Stand your ground! I will never accept gay marriage.
God is weeping right now.

Good Grief wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:53 AM:Why do gays and lesbians have to strut around and prove to the world they are any different then anyone else? Give me a break. Hopefully that means no more gay parades... Not really particular about seeing men prance the streets in their underwear... Go get a life.

Child of God wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:54 AM:God has the final say.

Isaiah wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:57 AM:The shew of their countenance doth witness against them; and they declare their sin as Sodom, they hide it not. Woe unto their soul! for they have rewarded evil unto themselves.

Not Right wrote on Jun 17, 2008 11:08 AM:This is not right, California voters voted twice on the marriage issue and both times it came back as one man and one women, then a judge decides he knows what the people really want or what is right. This judge should be removed from the bench because his job is to enforce the laws not create laws. If voters had voted in favor it would have been easier to take than having a judge overrule the voice of the majority because of his political ambitions and or bias. Flame me if you want,but you all know the minority got the victory and that is not democracy. By the way, I am a native Californian of 50 years and now California has been flushed down the toilet.

To Minister at wrote on Jun 17, 2008 11:21 AM:I'll stand with you, too, if the state tries to force you to officiate. Until then, you and your church should mind your own business and let me and my family mind ours.

California toilet wrote on Jun 17, 2008 11:22 AM:Love and marriage and truth combine all on one day of freedom and the Jesus freaks think California is being flushed down the toilet. Why did I decide not to be an American Christian? I wonder.

beauty wrote on Jun 17, 2008 11:57 AM:How can anyone not see the human love and happiness evident in gay marriage. Do not let your religion turn you to the dark side.

wife left me wrote on Jun 17, 2008 12:07 PM:I woke up this morning and there were gay people being married on my TV. My wife immediately started packing her bags, mumbling something about "Vegas". My son and daughter switched clothes before going to the mall, telling me not to wait up. I think it is happening. HELP!

Frank wrote on Jun 17, 2008 12:14 PM:The separation of Church and State and the freedom of religion seem to be slightly blurred here.
Shouldn't ministers have the right to refuse to wed someone? They can refuse a hetero couple for not being their denomination or not (in the minister's opinion) being prepared. Ministers and others are not mandated to accommodate everyone are they?

Scripture wrote on Jun 17, 2008 12:18 PM:It is written: The blasphemers among you will write the Law on the wall for all to see, and debase it in the courts of men. Yet the righteous ones will walk soundlessly, two by two, man and man, man and woman, woman and woman, and woman and man, that their footfalls may not drown the Word in the ears of their neighbors.

Janet wrote on Jun 17, 2008 12:20 PM:1.) Refer to the New Testament and the message of Jesus. If you are going to haul out the old testament, then you should obey ALL the rules in it. You can't sit on a chair that a unclean woman (having her period or after childbirth) sat on. There are many more. Try them all for a week. Oh, it also says don't eat pigs (Deuteronomy 14:7). Are are you just picking the teaching that you agree with? Love thy neighbor? Nah, too hard.
2.) This has only to do with civil marriages. No one I have heard of have asserted the right for religious marriages. They want equality under the LAW.
3.) When the courts rule, it is not based on the popularity of a law, but on the meaning and validity of state laws. Otherwise, the majority could cram all kinds of things down the throats of the minority. People in Virginia would probably have voted for slavery, but should blacks have remained slaves if the majority voted for it?

Dear Frank wrote on Jun 17, 2008 12:28 PM:Ministers can refuse anything they want. We are speaking of county employees here Frank.

Good Grief wrote on Jun 17, 2008 12:33 PM:I feel sorry for the children these folk will start adopting. They will grow up all confused...

Religious wrote on Jun 17, 2008 12:48 PM:= brainwashed.

Spiritual wrote on Jun 17, 2008 12:49 PM:= enlightened.

Wait I voted NO wrote on Jun 17, 2008 12:58 PM:Thanks to activist judges, these abominations are allowed to happen. Im not one to judge, thats for God to decide. I pray these individuals that are getting married see the error of their ways and repent to God. You man not believe in God, but he believes in you.

Ecstatic wrote on Jun 17, 2008 1:06 PM:I am so happy for all the people who can finally wed. I pity the fools who can't see that love makes the world go 'round. Congratulations to all who get married and I wish you all the happiness in the world. Hopefully, most voters agree and we shut down this Nov. 3 nonsense.

Let people be happy wrote on Jun 17, 2008 1:07 PM:There is so much fear and hate in the world.

Let these people have some happiness in their lives.

Ivan wrote on Jun 17, 2008 1:22 PM:It is sad to read all of these comments that invoke god or some verse in the bible as justification for denying gays and lesbians equal protection under the law. We are United States citizens and we unite under the U.S. Constitution. Additionally, as California citizens, we unite under the California Constitution. We are not all Christians, and it would be ridiculous to think we could all agree on something set forth in the bible-- a very contentious book.

There are certain protections given to all citizens through these great constitutions, one being equal protection under the law. These protections cannot be taken away from any citizen, without the due process of law. Courts are there to interpret law, not enforce law (like stated above). Enforcement is the job of the executive. The California Supreme Court determined that by prohibiting gays and lesbians into an institution such as marriage--which has been historically economic and political-- California officials were not abiding by California's constitution. Initiatives voted into law by Californians are no exception to the Constitution. These pieces of law must also fall in line with the California Constitution. The Court determined that the Prop 22 initiative did not adhere to the Constitution, thus striking it down as unconstitutional. We have these Constitutions to ensure protections for all citizens. In this system, we all have rights that are protected from the tyranny of the majority.

Just think, if the majority of people were atheists and voted to ban religious practice in the United States, it would be overturned by the court system. Everyone is guaranteed their 1st Amendment rights.

Just think, if the majority of people tried to deny Caucasian citizens the right to vote, that disenfranchisement would be overturned by a court. Through the 15th, 20th, 24th and 26th amendments, all eligible citizens have the right to vote.

Our Constitutions are wonderful and are there to protect us all from the sometimes tyrannic nature of the majority.

The right to equal marriage is nothing different. These individuals just want to have their relationships recognized by the state, so they can receive equal protections married couples currently enjoy. They are not asking your church to recognize their marriage, only the state of California.

If you disagree with this ruling on religious grounds, ensure that your institution isn't going recognize these marriages. However, California is a secular institution, one through which you cannot deny people their basic rights as citizens.

Please go back and take a basic civics course before you leave such inane comments.

Ha wrote on Jun 17, 2008 1:24 PM:"The end is coming soon, save yourself through Jesus Christ now, for we do not know the time he is coming. Live every day as if it is the last. God will take us home soon."

How do you know that the end is near if you don't know when "he" (ha) is coming?

Alf wrote on Jun 17, 2008 1:26 PM:Right on, "Janet" at 12:20PM. Regards, Alf.

A Human wrote on Jun 17, 2008 1:29 PM:Why are the "accepting" Christains judging people, a right reserved for God? Why do they get off?

While I could careless if gays marry or not, to discriminate agasint anyone for any reason is wrong.

I'm willing to bet that if Jesus were to return right now, he'd be more concerned with greater acts of human stupidity than bother with gay marriage.

On a side note, I wonder how the Christians would like it if the people voted to have churches remove nativity scenes in view of the public?

Do unto others folks.

To all against wrote on Jun 17, 2008 1:48 PM:You are the same type of people that told blacks and whites they could not marry. The same BS religious arguements were used back then too. God is the one who judges not you. You as a believer are supposed to love everyone. Church's do not have to marry anyone they do not want to so stop that arguement as well. Get over it.

Congratulations wrote on Jun 17, 2008 1:55 PM:Religious arguments are irrelevant. Only the state regulates marriage. There is nothing inherently religious in it. It's a civil rights issue, not a religious issue.

To Janet wrote on Jun 17, 2008 2:03 PM:3.) When the courts rule, it is not "based on the popularity of a law, but on the meaning and validity of state laws. Otherwise, the majority could cram all kinds of things down the throats of the minority. People in Virginia would probably have voted for slavery, but should blacks have remained slaves if the majority voted for it?" How dare you compare slavery to homosexual marriage. The slaves were beaten and killed, obviously not their choice. In case you don't know, homosexualty is a CHOICE wnd if someone wants to live that lifestyle it is their choice. I should not Have to deal with them fluanting it, when a rich person flaunts their money people look at them as a fool, I see know difference between the flaunting of lifestyles. Study your history they not only voted for it,but fought a war for it, they lost by the way. just in case you are more confused than you appear. Government of the people,by the people, and for the people means that the citizens vote for the laws, not being subject to a bias tyrant who forces his or her biases upon us.

hart wrote on Jun 17, 2008 2:04 PM:Wow. Any good historical fiction worth it's salt will tell you that marriage was initially based not on anything sacred, but on the number of goats, or acres, or other random property that could be gotten from a dowry. Certainly the high divorce rate, the drive-thru wedding chapels in Vegas, do not speak to it's sanctity.
All the church rant, all the right-wing shout out of blasphemy and demoralization, signifies nothing more than fear of human evolution.The bible is a book, like other books. It was written by men. Make make rules. Spirituality, love, the Golden Rule, equality...these are the real truths. No need to lash out, or be afraid, or condemn. My partner of ten years and I will marry as soon as possible. Our children are beautiful, expressive, full of love, and extremely happy. No one is confused. No one is descending into the abysses of Christian hell. Life is as blessed and wonderful as it has always been. Ministers, fundamentalists shaking your fists...look into your own hearts, and ask yourselves why social change should incite so much rage within you, that has nothing to do with you? Live, and let live.

To Minister wrote on Jun 17, 2008 2:07 PM:You think your god will be in court with you? Where was your god when 911 happened? How about when two sets of parents rush to an ER after a car crash and one teenager dies while the other lives. How does "HE" answer one prayer and not the other? Fanatics like you claim The Will of God, well why not here and now? Take your religous crap somewhere, it has no place here.
Live and let live! I am not gay but as long as no one is twisting my arm to watch, I have no problem with any of it.

According to wrote on Jun 17, 2008 2:11 PM:Homosexuals have an average of 500 different sexual partners. According to a 1982 study by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), those with AIDS average 1,000 in their lifetime. Some reported as many as 20,000 such encounters, the CDC said.

OCEANSIDER wrote on Jun 17, 2008 2:16 PM:Here we have a bunch of bible thumpers yapping about how wicked it is to have same sex marriages. These are the same kind of people who opposed marriage between people of different races and who, if they could, would turn this country into a theocracy. You want a theocracy? Go to Iran. There the ayotollah and the mullahs will dictate every detail of your life and force you to accept their religion. That is, when they aren't busy executing dissenters. "The Bible says....blah, blah, blah." Fine. If you want to live by whatever it may say, go right ahead, but don't try to shove it down everybody elses throat! This country was founded so we would be free of somebody dictating a religion to us. Read the Constitution!

Disgusted wrote on Jun 17, 2008 2:28 PM:Unfortunatly this junk doesnt surprise me anymore. I will be ok with gay marriage as soon as a man can be impregnated by another man (and no being a tranny doesnt count) and as soon as a woman can have a a baby from another woman impregnating her. Can anyone say square peg in a round hole? Justify all you want, petaphiles are born that way also...its called sexual peversion, you just chose to act on it!

John wrote on Jun 17, 2008 2:29 PM:All you need is love.

JuanGrande wrote on Jun 17, 2008 2:45 PM:I love the rantings of the alleged christians, screaming that gays are equal to straights, and now they are getting favored. Amazing, for decades all we have heard from the churches is how inferior gays are. Sorry but my karma just ran over your dogma.

Concerned One wrote on Jun 17, 2008 2:58 PM:Again I don't care, but just stop making such a big deal about it. And for heaven's sake, get that damn picture off the web page.

Wait till November wrote on Jun 17, 2008 3:05 PM:This issue is bound to go on the ballot in November or the next election date as a California Constitution Amendment -at which time the silent majority will vote to keep marriage between a man and a woman and hopefully end this nonsense! These marriage licenses won't be worth the paper they are printed on. Go vote in November to keep marriage between and man and a woman!!

To According to wrote on Jun 17, 2008 3:23 PM:So did Wilt Chamberlain ... what's your point?

Interested wrote on Jun 17, 2008 3:26 PM:Minister: When God stands at your side --- assuming as you do that he'll defend your hate ---- I'd like to be there to ask Him a few questions. You and your ilk don't matter.

Omigosh were still married wrote on Jun 17, 2008 3:26 PM:My wife and I celebrated our tenth anniversary last fall. After hearing weeks of dire predictions from the religious right about the destruction of the institution of marriage that would result from gays and lesbians marrying, we woke up this morning to discover that we were still married. Imagine that.

Ivan wrote on Jun 17, 2008 3:30 PM:If you so claim that homosexuality is a choice, ask yourself this: Why would a person choose to be a homosexual? Why would anyone want to live a life where they are constantly subjected to the torment, hatred and disrespect that you and many people in this forum are promulgating? No person would logically or rationally choose to attach himself/herself to such a socially stigmatized group.

Congratulations to all of the couples that have decided to marry. You, just as all other couples in the state, deserve the utmost respect and recognition of your life-long commitment to one another.

Interested wrote on Jun 17, 2008 3:40 PM:Minister: When God stands at your side --- assuming as you do that he'll defend your hate ---- I'd like to be there to ask Him a few questions. We have your opinion. Now I'd like to hear his --- and I'd like you to hear it too. All you need is love...

So Cal Native wrote on Jun 17, 2008 4:12 PM:This is just plain sick! I feel sorry for the kids that will have to go to school and say my mommy is a man. God made Adam and Eve, not Adam & Adam for a reason, TO REPRODUCE. Enjoy it now because, time is running out! The people of California have spoken and we will speak again come November.

dear Concerned One wrote on Jun 17, 2008 4:23 PM:Are you speaking of the "damned picture" on the web page as the one of the two happily married newlyweds? The fact that they are both female really grinds your gourd eh? Why don't you close your eyes?

LOL wrote on Jun 17, 2008 4:23 PM:Jesus never spoke of it, yet we all claim the "anti" position supercedes his greatest commandment "Love thy neighbor...". Jesus reached out to all people. When other wanted to stone a woman for alledged sins, without a word being spoken, he shewed the accusers away then showed her she was covered by his Grace. That is the true sense of God. Where is yours? You want to quote and prech from a Bible it seems you do not practice...for if you did you would have sold your sister into slavery and never eat shell fish because of the abomination. I am willing to bet you don't follow those yet don't stand in protest at a Lobster House. Of course you would claim the Old Covenant was superceded by the New Covenant (Testament) yet you are silenced on why if it was such a heaven rendering issue - Jesus - the one who gave us salvation by grace never spoke of it. Perhaps the time has come that you stand at the pulpit and publicly repent for your non-christian rants here. In fact, step forward in Christ and state your name and your church so we can all attend!

No real marriage wrote on Jun 17, 2008 4:30 PM:Doesn't anyone think its funny that marriage is a religious joining of two, a man and a woman, and that if any gays beleive in their religion at all and still get married are two faced hypocrits. You can't beleive in both. How can you beleive in marriage but not what marriage is.

Strange wrote on Jun 17, 2008 4:33 PM:Why is this on the front of the online newspaper? I really, really don't get why this is so important. I took a look at msnbc(I guess I could choose any other online media outlet) The leads are "Floods put Red Cross in the red," "Celtics’ Pierce stealing the show, " and " Dog from Vick case has his day." Frankly, a dog saved from a NFL quarterback's dogfighting ring and put to good use is much more interesting. I'l even take the Celtic's story of the Gay story... oh well... again tell me if you know why this is so important.

Strange wrote on Jun 17, 2008 4:35 PM:Why is this on the front of the online newspaper? I really, really don't get why this is so important. I took a look at msnbc(I guess I could choose any other online media outlet) The leads are "Floods put Red Cross in the red," "Celtic stealing the show, " and " Dog from case has his day." Frankly, a dog saved from a NFL quarterback's dogfighting ring and put to good use is much more interesting. I'l even take the Celtic's story of the Gay story... oh well... again tell me if you know why this is so important.

Stranger wrote on Jun 17, 2008 4:43 PM:Why don't we prevent you from getting married until you're in your 50s? We'll suddenly let you do it and then ask you if you think it's important

Let he wrote on Jun 17, 2008 4:47 PM:who is without sin cast the first stone. Oh and what ever happened to the seperation of church and state? I think it got lost somewhere in the last century somewhere.

now they can... wrote on Jun 17, 2008 4:47 PM:pay the increased taxes on married folks levied by the family-unfriendly republicans.

Marriage is wrote on Jun 17, 2008 5:13 PM:Between a man and a woman PERIOD!!!
The majority will change the judges ruling come NOVEMBER!

To janet wrote on Jun 17, 2008 5:32 PM:You Don't understand the Holy Scriptures. So don't try to use it to your advantage. The new testament is full of scripture that forbids Homosexual conduct. Jesus did not come to abolish the old testament, but to fullfil it. GO AND SIN NO MORE! I am a sinner who still sins openly, but at least I know what i have to do to be saved.

Irony of Naturalism wrote on Jun 17, 2008 5:42 PM:Question I would LOVE SOMEONE to FINALLY ANSWER ONE OF THESE DAYS:

If you put all the "gays" on an island, how long would they last?

Thank-you... case closed.. nuff said

to let he wrote on Jun 17, 2008 5:49 PM:Gays need to seperate themselves from institutions of the Church. No gays are married, no matter what a piece of paper says. Marriage is defined as an agreement between a man and woman.

Irony of overpopulation wrote on Jun 17, 2008 5:53 PM:"Irony of naturalism" makes a great case for more homosexual couples and fewer heterosexual couples, considering how crowded our schools have gotten.

And wait, I've got another one:

If you put all the "farmers" in front of a computer terminal, how long would they make food?

Thank-you... case closed.. nuff said

To Irony wrote on Jun 17, 2008 5:53 PM:They would probably figure out that their gay lifestyle was wrong all along and realize that only natural relations would keep them going on. Gods will would prevail!

Believer wrote on Jun 17, 2008 6:04 PM:To all my Christian bros and sistaz. Let God take care of his enemies. The word says that people will go from bad to worse until the day that He returns.So make room for God's wrath.
let the evil have their fun now, cause we know what beholds the enemies of God.

big words wrote on Jun 17, 2008 6:16 PM:I love the way the homophobes think their arguments are more persuasive with ALL CAPITAL LETTERS. It kind of makes me wonder whether they're able to use logic at all. No wonder they get confused and start using phrases like PROTECT MARRIAGE to regulate what goes on in other people's lives.

emty words wrote on Jun 17, 2008 6:40 PM:I love the way Homosexuals make up thier own twisted logic to justify their twisted, lustfull lifestyles. No wonder they get confused and get hitched with the SAME SEX.

Thank you Believer wrote on Jun 17, 2008 7:00 PM:Great words of encouragement! Bless You for that.

Whats up with the slide show NCT wrote on Jun 17, 2008 7:02 PM:Like we all want to see a bunch of pictures of people getting married. Where was the slide show in the paper when I got married???????

Oh , thats right, I'm straight and a legal citizen, so I am exempt.

To Christians wrote on Jun 17, 2008 7:02 PM:Your religion says homosexuality is wrong.
My religion embraces it.

Let's call it a draw and go get a beer.

Live and let God(dess).

Hegelian wrote on Jun 17, 2008 7:05 PM:Based upon natural laws and evolutionary science it is very clear that normal sexual behavior is that which functions according to its design. The natural order of all life dictates procreation.

It is erroneous to assert that homosexuals are being discriminated against if denied the right to enter the marriage union when the immovable foundations of tradition, legal precedent, natural laws, human physiology, and social-science evidence dictates that marriage is by definition a heterosexual institution. Current California laws protect the human rights of ALL its citizens.

Limiting marriage to one man and one woman cannot be construed to be discriminatory. It is a necessary condition for marriage as it has always been properly and appropriately discriminatory, as when it denies a man the right to marry his mother, daughter, sister, a child, or someone already married.

The fact is that by definition, marriage is the union between one man and one woman, because men and women are the only categories of human beings that can bring forth the next generation.

Grump wrote on Jun 17, 2008 7:21 PM:Well isn't that picture just thweeet! Andrew Dice Clay said it best, "how can one guy be laying on the beach and see another guy's hairy bum walk bye and say, "oohh, I gatta have that!"

to Minister too wrote on Jun 17, 2008 8:06 PM:You're not going to get sued. No gay or lesbian couple would want you anywhere near their wedding. There are plenty of ministers to marry them. Who are you people trying to kid?

Pastor wrote on Jun 17, 2008 8:11 PM:I agree that if a minister or official doesn't want to perform a ceremony, that's their business, but I do wonder why I see so much hate, and talk of God's wrath (which is a convenient way of concealing hate) on this issue. Christians are quick to say homosexuality is an abomination, but are quick to show grace to the divorced that are re-married (the Bible definitely talks about that...and in the NT no less!) There are 6 verses in the entire Bible that are said to be about homosexuality, 3 in the OT 3 in the NT. The problem is that when you read your BIble, the word homosexual, was not part of the original text. THat word wasn't even around until the early 1900's. The greek word used is very loosley translated as homosexual. As a pastor, I am disappointed at the behavior of Christians towards the gay community. I accept that many Christians believe that homosexuality is sinful, but so is hate. I personally, after a lot of study, wonder if homosexuals in committed relationships are sinning...so I say to the newlyweds, God Bless.

God wrote on Jun 17, 2008 8:12 PM:Who do you so-called Christians think created homosexuals?

Definition Of Marriage wrote on Jun 17, 2008 8:14 PM:HEGELIAN: "The fact is that by definition, marriage is the union between one man and one woman"

It's true that is one definition of the word marriage. Another part of that definition, however, states that marriage is: "any close or intimate association or union" ... That could mean something as simple as peanut butter and jelly or it could mean Bob & Mike or Brenda & Sue. It could also mean John & Stacey ... or song & lyric ... etc, etc.

The word marriage has a definition that allows it to cover so many different relationships that trying to cite this one section as the absolute one and only makes your argument defective at best.

Natural law and evolutionary science (or even creationism) doesn't rule our land. It may rule our species .. but not our land. Given that ... denying the participation in a publically enforced contract based on things such as sex, religion, skin color or sexual orientation is in fact discrimination.

I just spoke... wrote on Jun 17, 2008 8:16 PM:to Jesus and God and they are okay with gay marriage. "Get over it, its a done deal" said Jesus. "To each their own" said God. Well, I'm satisfied.

Christine wrote on Jun 17, 2008 8:32 PM:This is really sad for California. Our Governor needs to stimulate the economy here and this is what he chose. It isn't a matter of just religion but of accepting things that are unnatural and not seeing the mess this will cause. Why couldn't it be named something else and preserve marriage for the old fashion woman and man. This state is loosing all dignity and sense of pride.

Christine wrote on Jun 17, 2008 8:46 PM:I'm having trouble picturing this whole thing! Sure glad I don't have kids to try and explain two guys or two girls...OMG!!!

Diana wrote on Jun 17, 2008 8:47 PM:God hates the SIN - NOT the sinner.

to empty words wrote on Jun 17, 2008 8:49 PM:Homosexual "lifestyle" is no more lustful than hetero. You must be very misinformed.

to good frief wrote on Jun 17, 2008 8:50 PM:What about the children of straight couples who divorce (over 50% do) are they any less confused over their situation?

A proud American... and a Voter-to-be wrote on Jun 17, 2008 9:36 PM:This whole business is downright disgusting!
I hope Escondido will never come to this.

blm wrote on Jun 18, 2008 5:35 AM:The pictures show some very happy people celebrating life in their own way. It doesn't hurt me, and they aren't forcing me to approach life the way they are. So live and let live.

Patrick wrote on Jun 18, 2008 6:49 AM:Who cares? Now get back to work!

The Gay After wrote on Jun 18, 2008 8:05 AM:Gays have married and look... we're all still here, the world didn't come to an end. The evil homosexuals with their dreams of wanting a family and contributing to society didn't make California sink into the ocean...

Really Now wrote on Jun 18, 2008 8:09 AM:God is weeping over gay marriage? I'm almost CERTAIN God has better things to weep over like: war, poverty and hunger. I'm willing to be judged for loving another man, but at least I won't be judged for hating and hurting people.

To PROUD AMERICAN wrote on Jun 18, 2008 8:12 AM:"This whole business is downright disgusting!
I hope Escondido will never come to this." - Proud American And Voter-To-Be

Oh goodness... ummm, Escondido is a part of the state of California, so ummm, it has come to this. Hold off on your voting for a bit ok? Maybe focus a little more on your schooling, largely geography.

Adopted Children wrote on Jun 18, 2008 8:17 AM:I have friends who were raised by same-sex couples both by adoption and by a biological mother and everyone last one of them have grown to be amazing loving people.
I even had a friend who grew up with a heterosexual couple, her mother than married another woman and yes at first she was confused (just as confused as any child during a divorce) BUT she ended up realizing there was real love in her home. And now when her and I talk about the situation she says the love she feels in her home with her mom and her wife is stronger than anything she had experienced.
It doesn't matter who you are marrying, but why you marry. If you truly love them then go for it. And it won't matter if people try to deny you of your love because the feelings you have for each other is stronger than any hate strangers have towards you.

Radman wrote on Jun 18, 2008 8:23 AM:Why don't you bible thumpers follow the scriptures below.

DEUTERONOMY 22:13-21
If it is discovered that a bride is not a virgin, the Bible demands that she be executed by stoning immediately.
DEUTERONOMY 22:22
If a married person has sex with someone else's husband or wife, the Bible commands that both adulterers be stoned to death.
MARK 10:1-12
Divorce is strictly forbidden in both Testaments, as is remarriage of anyone who has been divorced.
LEVITICUS 18:19
The Bible forbids a married couple from having sexual intercourse during a woman's period. If they disobey, both shall be executed.
MARK 12:18-27
If a man dies childless, his widow is ordered by biblical law to have intercourse with each of his brothers in turn until she bears her deceased husband a male heir.
DEUTERONOMY 25:11-12
If a man gets into a fight with another man and his wife seeks to rescue her husband by grabbing the enemy's genitals, her hand shall be cut off and no pity shall be shown her.

You pick the ones you like?

Mike wrote on Jun 18, 2008 8:25 AM:Now that anyone can get married there is no need to have domestic partner health care coverage or any other similar benefit.

To Ha et. al. wrote on Jun 18, 2008 8:25 AM:Ha wrote at 1:24PM, "How do you know that the end is near if you don't know when "he" (ha) is coming?" The signs were foretold and are there for those willing to look: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. In the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, where is this 'coming' he promised? Ever since our fathers died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation." With the Lord a day is like a thousand years and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping a promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentence. By everyone, he does mean all of us, you and me.

CR wrote on Jun 18, 2008 8:28 AM:What a sad day for Californians--as we become one of the two worst states in the U.S. Just because a few wacko judges can overturn the will of millions of voters, it WILL change this November. Those judges may say these "pseudo-marriages" are recognized here, but they NEVER will be by me!

Buford T. wrote on Jun 18, 2008 9:13 AM:Thanks NC Times for throwing the "former Marine" slam on the first line of your article. I didn't see that you referred to anyone else as a "former" anything. Like is was at all relevant to the "news" you were reporting. Just trying to bring the human element by making it appeal to your local audience???? Inferring what - that they are all gay at Camp Pendleton????? Wrong! Unsat, a cheap shot and just plain wrong.

andy wrote on Jun 18, 2008 9:18 AM:I can't believe the ignorance and stupidity on this board. Keep your religion to yourself! These so called christian nuts give a christ a bad name and are starting to sound like the taliban. Ivy league educated here, and making over 300k, in a committed relationship for 16 years, I have a blessed life, and frankly I feel sorry for you poor deluded souls. I really do. Your life must be something terrible.

yes radman wrote on Jun 18, 2008 9:25 AM:Evil christian people, why don't you follow all the other tenants of the bible? Why are you allowed to pick and choose? What hypocrites!

flip wrote on Jun 18, 2008 9:32 AM:It seems like a lot of people on this blog are just incensed at the idea that a M-M or W-W relationship could could go by the same name as a M-W relationship. So maybe we should call the same-sex version "garriage." Better yet, let's look up the Aramaic or ancient Hebrew or Greek word for M-W marriage and offer that word as an option for newlywed straights who don't want to be mistaken for gay couples.

Hegelian wrote on Jun 18, 2008 9:37 AM:The decision made by California activist judges was no minor adjustment or a slight change in degree that just extends benefits or rights to a larger class, but was a substantive change in the essence of the institution of marriage. It does not merely expand marriage; it alters its core meaning, for to redefine marriage so that it is not intrinsically related to the relationship between fathers, mothers, and children formally severs the institution from its nature and purpose. For thousands of years, on the basis of experience, tradition, and legal precedent, every society and every major religious faith have upheld marriage as a unique relationship by which a man and a woman are joined together for the primary purpose of forming and maintaining a family. This overwhelming consensus results from the fact that the union of man and woman is apparent and manifest in the most basic and evident truths of human nature.

Expanding marriage supposedly to make it more inclusive, no matter what we call the new arrangement, necessarily ends marriage as we now know it by remaking the institution into something different: a mere contract between any two individuals. The long term legal, and social, ramifications will be profound as the basic fabric of society is torn in two.

Bro Rufus wrote on Jun 18, 2008 9:44 AM:Well, this is an odd headline, isn't it? Aren't nearly all newlyweds happy and gay? To avoid confusion and also corruption of our language, shouldn't the headline make reference instead to "HOMOSEXUAL COUPLES"? The sense I get from reading about these people is that they are proud to be homosexuals, so at least acknowledge the fact, please. And please stop corrupting my language.

Move away then.. wrote on Jun 18, 2008 9:49 AM:If you think that California is so messed up (CR 8:28a.m.)move to another state that has yet to approve of "same sex marriage" How does same sex marriage affect you whiners?? It does not!!You all speak about how GOD would be weeping because of same sex marriages and quoting the bible. I don't see it anywhere in the bible giving a priest (a man of the cloth) the "RIGHT" to molest innocent children.HYPOCRITES INDEED!!!

liberaljim wrote on Jun 18, 2008 10:01 AM:In a democracy it is the duty of the courts to protect the constitutional rights of minorities from obliteration by the majority. Massachusetts allows same-sex marriage and has the lowest divorce rate in the nation. Appartently the only thing same-sex marriage threatens is the sanctity of divorce.

Beth wrote on Jun 18, 2008 10:16 AM:I am in support of the idea to, “Pray to save marriage”. I do this every day- now. I believe that the people that speak these words should apply it to themselves before they attempt to hinder other people. The divorce rate, adultery occurrences, and the instances of child and spousal abuse are well documented among marriages between men and women. These folks would be better served to use their efforts help themselves, rather than to hurt other people.
Proponents of keeping marriage between a man and a woman advocate that this is based, in part, on the fact that the goal of marriage is procreation. Then these people should also try to stop older folks past the age of child bearing to marry. And prevent the young men and women to marry, that for whatever reason cannot or choose not to have children. As long as they’re at it, how about a decree that states once men and women that are married stop having sexual relations that they be mandated to divorce? Perhaps we should all stop and think that marriage is simply about love.
I have never heard God say: gay marriage is forbidden. For that matter, I do not believe anyone has actually heard this utterance. People throughout time have integrated their personal views and beliefs into events that have taken place many years ago, often time without merit or credence. This has only severed to do damage and divide people, rather than God’s intention of everyone loving and supporting one another, regardless of personal differences. If Jesus were here today, the question could be asked, “What would Jesus do?” I think He would marry anyone who presented themselves for the lifetime commitment of love.

CR wrote on Jun 18, 2008 10:33 AM:To all the pro-gay "pseudo-marriage" people writing in that pretend to be religious, you pick and choose what part of the Bible you chose to believe. You set yourself up as "god"--if you don't believe it all, don't pretend you believe it at all! We'll see who has the last laugh in November. I would gladly move to another more sane state if my work was there!

To Hegelian wrote on Jun 18, 2008 10:57 AM:When it comes to the public rights & responsibilities of a marriage it has never been anything more than a mere contract between adults. Marriage doesn't take on any 'spiritual' meaning until it's put in a religious setting and no one is forcing a church to participate in something they don't feel is part of their tenets. Government offices, however, don't have that luxury. Government must treat all legal, law abiding & tax paying citizens the same ... period.

Flaming straight guy wrote on Jun 18, 2008 11:34 AM:It's time for the "protect marriage" people to start acting like big boys and girls. Right now, you look like a bunch of whiners, like a 3-year-old who starts crying when he suddenly has to share the attention with a newborn sibling.

Why do we care wrote on Jun 18, 2008 11:45 AM:Why is this so important, why the lead story? A couple of guys who can get the day off to get married is news. Ok, they legalized gay marriage. How many people does this effect?

Insane wrote on Jun 18, 2008 11:46 AM:It is June 18th, one day since same-sex couples have been given equal marriage rights. Oddly, we are still all here. I was expecting California to fall into an abyss or sink into the Pacific Ocean. At least that is what I've been told would happen if gays and lesbians had equal rights.

Lori wrote on Jun 18, 2008 12:00 PM:Is the North County Times running out of things to write about? These same articles have been the paper for DAYS now! We get the picture. Gays can marry. Move on!!

Hart wrote on Jun 18, 2008 12:09 PM:The ignorance just goes on and on...
truly amazing, the number of fundamentalist Christians who can't spell or tie together a complete sentence, let alone grasp the basic concept of love as a universal right. Yes, what a heinous, apocalyptic mess the world is, today, as a result of same sex couples committing to each other on a piece of paper, yesterday. Clearly, the floods, the earthquakes, the violence of the world, all ensue due to the loving relationships between gay people. This makes perfect sense. You poor, sad, unevolved, small-minded miscreants. Do you really think any of us care whether you support our lifestyles, or not?

Sorry Lori - this is history wrote on Jun 18, 2008 12:36 PM:Thanks for the great coverage, this is truly history in the making. Congratulations to everyone, straight and gay!!!

Former Marine wrote on Jun 18, 2008 12:40 PM:The fact that the guy was a Marine is news. Sort of like man bites dog? Maybe in Kalamzoo it would not be news, but in San Diego county it is news.

Focal Point wrote on Jun 18, 2008 1:16 PM:CR[-] wrote on Jun 18, 2008 8:28 AM: Are you of so much importance?

Focal Point wrote on Jun 18, 2008 1:18 PM:To Minister[-] wrote on Jun 17, 2008 10:49 AM: God does not weep. He is a pure spirit. Quit apply human finite bodily characteristics to Almighty God.

Oh boo hoo wrote on Jun 18, 2008 1:20 PM:The tide is turning in favor of tolerance. Better get used to it, church-o's.

Hey Scoffers wrote on Jun 18, 2008 1:35 PM:All of you having fun pulling up verses from Deuteronomy are missing something: Christians are not subject to Old Testament Law. We are under grace thanks to the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ. But understand this: God's moral standards never change. What was sin then is sin now. We all sin, and we all need Jesus to justify ourselves before God. On the other hand, you are free to believe that we are merely complex collections of molecules that have mutated and evolved over millions of years. In such a case morality is meaningless, and your molecules truly are free to behave as molecules do, with no particular regard to other molecules. In that case go ahead and mock us, mock our God and mock the Bible if it feels good. We are used to it.

ToNCT wrote on Jun 18, 2008 1:39 PM:I understand, If I was a homosexual censer for the NCT I would not post my comments either, It's OK, I'm not mad. I feel sorry for your pettiness, But I'm not mad.

Wow wrote on Jun 18, 2008 1:44 PM:Is it just me or do most of those against gay marriage use improper English in the posts? Apparently ignorance and a lack of education can lead people to believe they are better than others.

Assumption wrote on Jun 18, 2008 1:53 PM:California toilet, you presume too much.
[-] wrote on Jun 17, 2008 11:22 AM:
Love and marriage and truth combine all on one day of freedom and the Jesus freaks think California is being flushed down the toilet. Why did I decide not to be an American Christian? I wonder.
I never mentioned anything about religion, I said that the majority voted against it only to have it forced on us anyway. If we lose an election we deal with it, if you lose you buy someone off to get your way.If you don't like this system of majority rules government maybe you should move to the middle east where human rights abound.

to CR wrote on Jun 18, 2008 2:19 PM:So you're saying that you follow everything in the BIble? Even the Old Testament? I am sure that you "pick and choose" which Levitical laws to follow. The Christians that moan the loudest about Gays being an abomination follow very few of the Levitical laws, so really THEY pick and choose a lot more than those Christians who choose to treat human beings with love instead of hate. And I am not pretending to be religious, I am a pastor in a mainstream denomination.

noway wrote on Jun 18, 2008 2:38 PM:I don't know why they are wasting their time and money on getting married. it WILL get overturned in November anyways! Its wrong. morally, its wrong. God did not mean for same sexes to marry- if he did, then they would be able to procreate!

Three D wrote on Jun 18, 2008 2:44 PM:To: Hey Scoffers at 1:35 p.m.
Actually, the references to the Bible forbidding pork and shrimp cited are not from Deuteronomy, but from Leviticus chapter 11. And yes, eating these are not merely matters of law, but they are called abomination. It seems strange that the same Christians who repeatedly cite Leviticus regarding homosexuality dismiss it when it talks about dietary laws or ritual purification after menstruation.
And you talk about not being under the Law, and the renegade "apostle" Paul taught, but Jesus, whom you seem to reject, taught in Matthew 5:18 that not one dot or iota of the Law would be exempt from compliance until ALL THINGS are fulfilled and "heaven and earth pass away," and I assume the word "all" includes all the prophecies about the end times stuff, especially since heaven and earth have not passed away yet.
And, by the way, please explain how killing an innocent man through a bloody ritual of human sacrifice does anything to "justify" you. It seems the followers of Paul (against Jesus) want the "lazy man's way to salvation" instead of the way that Jesus taught, through universal compassionate DEEDS towards neighbors, enemies and the "hard to love" he called the "least of these" (including homosexuals?), as he stated repeatedly, but most clearly in Matt 25:31-46, where that is the sole standard of salvation with NO OTHER QUALIFICATION.

to Hey wrote on Jun 18, 2008 3:06 PM:How does it follow that