AT ISSUE: PROPOSITION 8
The measure, on the Nov. 4 ballot, asks voters to amend the state constitution to say that only marriage between a man and a woman would be valid in California. In May, the state Supreme Court overturned a similarly worded statewide ban on same-sex marriage passed by voters in 2000 and a law enacted by the Legislature in 1977. The measure needs a simple majority for passage.

Pro: Faith-based backers argue that same-sex marriage goes against the Bible. Although they say gays must be treated with respect, they point out that 61 percent of California voters agreed to ban same-sex marriages in 2000.

Con: Faith-based opponents argue that same-sex marriage falls under the Bible's teachings about justice. Although not all allow clergy to perform same-sex marriages, they say gays at least have a right to a civil marriage.

A battle over 'God's will': People of faith line up for and against a ban on same-sex marriage

By Sandi Dolbee
SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE RELIGION & ETHICS EDITOR
September 14, 2008