I have been away a few months and not able to contribute to this column. I am back, now and eager to address a host of issues that impact our people and communities. There is much to write about. For instance, in a few days we will cast ballots for congressional, gubernatorial and other state and local elections. At stake are control of the Congress and the direction of this nation for the next two years and beyond. I am one who believes the nation desperately needs a change in direction.

With all the issues and challenges facing our state, metropolitan area and nation, I call upon my colleagues and the church to stand up and address a very important one that immediately confronts not only the State of New Jersey, but the nation as well. On October 25, the New Jersey Supreme Court issued a major decision regarding same sex marriage. The Supreme Court decided that persons involved in civil unions are entitled to the same rights and benefits as persons who are married. They also gave the state legislature 180 days to decide whether same sex marriages would be sanctioned by the state. This decision ignited much discussion and debate across the country. Political parties also seek to use the decision as a way to rally their party partisans in this election, while also looking ahead to the national elections in 2008. In particular, conservatives seek to use this decision to rally their base voters and increase voter turnout.

The State of New Jersey now has the task of deciding whether to allow same sex marriage. This will be a major decision not only for us, but also for the nation. Presently the State of Massachusetts is the only state that allows same sex marriage.

I believe the Christian Church must take a position on this issue. It is a controversial issue and to the surprise of some, the church does not have a solid or unified position on the subject. In fact the Episcopal Church threatens to divide over the issue. It allows priests to conduct same sex marriage ceremonies and in fact has ordained a gay Episcopal Bishop.

It my hope that in New Jersey we will seek to influence the General Assembly to oppose and defeat legislation that would legalize same sex marriage. This should be done not on the basis of prejudice or discrimination, which is sinful and immoral, but on the basis of our faith and belief in the Word of God not personal prejudice and bigotry. My reading and understanding of the Bible convinces me that same sex marriage is not the will of God. If those who support same sex marriage can find where the Word of God accepts same sex marriage, they should present it and argue their case. But as for me, I cannot advocate God's Word and make an exception for same sex marriage.

While we should oppose same sex marriage, I believe we should also advocate for those in civil unions to receive benefits. Not to do so would be unjust and wreak harm, not only upon adult partners, but also upon children who are part of these unions.

I am not sure why our Supreme Court gave the General Assembly only 180 days to make this decision. Perhaps it was because it felt that otherwise the legislature would not act. However it is my hope that the upcoming debate will be civil, and shed light, not just fire-up heat. I am aware that for many, issues of faith and scripture are not considerations in their decision making on this issue. This I recognize and respect. Further, it is important for us in the faith community to recognize that not everybody shares our faith. And those who do not share our faith should understand that the term marriage originally derives from scripture and is not secular.

Finally, let those of us who are Christian be vigilant in prayer and trust that God's will be done.