THE MARRIAGE LAW.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 20056, 20 September 1920, Page 8

THE MARRIAGE LAW.

COUNCIL AMENDMENTS CONDEMNED, STRONG RESOLUTIONS. [Per Press Association*.] , HAWEIIA, September 20. Tiie Catholic congregation unanimous“Pivi tle follmvill g resolutions:— Whereas no power has authority o nrejwc the bond of Christian inuinago, duly contracted and truly consummated, and repudiation 'hf this, bond is an outrage against nature, a crime against society, and a sin against God; whereas the civil law has been giving new facilities, and therefore new encouragements, for the violation of the nuirnago hour!; ami whereas tho Legislative Assembly made an immoral and iniquitous amendment to the Marriage Law intended to compel Christians to approve of immoral conduct; It is resolved that the Catholics of Hawera request the Government to remember that marriage is an ordinance of God against which the .State is powerless; and that tho Government be advised to keep within its own fimiere, be content with regulating tho civil effects of marriage, and not degrade the Dominion by accepting tile amendments of the Gpner Chamber, which are without precedent. "It is resolved, further, that in case these amendments become law the active help of this congregation be at the disposal of our bishops; that no threat, fine or imprisonment shall drive Us to act the part of dumb dogs in the face of the pernicious code of public morality that is eating into the life of the nation,, that wc will stand by the Church hi her conflict with the State, and will gladlv suffer imprisonment. even death, to uphold tho Catholic reverence for the Holv Sacrament of marriage, and for the lajvs of the Church that wisely protect ‘it from profanation.”