GREAT VIDEO: See What Marylanders Really Think About Same-Sex "Marriage"

Thousands of traditional marriage supporters held a rally at the Maryland Statehouse in Annapolis on Monday, January 30, to oppose the recent push by the Governor and State Legislature to legalize same-sex "marriage." Between speeches, the lively crowd chanted, "one man, one woman" and "kill the bill" and "Adam and Eve: YES! Adam and Steve: NO!"

The rally was sponsored by the Maryland Marriage Alliance and featured prominent religious leaders and several members of the House of Delegates. TFP Student Action volunteers attended the rally and displayed an array of signs. For example: "Catholics reject same-sex 'marriage,' and "Every child needs a mother & father," among others.

Gov. Martin O'Malley, a Catholic, has made the legalization of same-sex "marriage" a priority, sparking outrage from faithful Catholics and Ten Commandment Americans.

Homosexual "marriage" advocates are modeling their efforts on New York, where Governor Andrew Cuomo strong-armed several conservative members of the state senate, behind closed doors, to vote in favor of a pseudo-marriage bill without any public referendum.

May God protect true marriage in Maryland and in every state where it is being threatened.

Homosexual Practice and Religious Persecution

Written by Luiz Sérgio Solimeo

Raymond Leo Cardinal Burke stated that it is “critical at this time that Christians stand up for the natural moral law,” especially in defense of life and the family, in an interview with CNA/EWTN News on November 28, 2011.¹

The Prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura warned about the possibility of religious persecution in the United States. Asked if he could envision U.S. Catholics even being arrested for preaching their faith, he replied: “I can see it happening, yes.” According to the high-ranking prelate, the Church could be accused of “engaging in illegal activity, for instance, in its teaching on human sexuality.”

However, the combative cardinal does not want Catholics to do nothing in face of this. He emphasizes that Christians must “stand strong, give a strong witness and insist on what is right and good for us both as individuals and society.”

Is Religion Opposed to “Human Rights”?
That persecution has already manifested itself in many ways, for example, by obliging several dioceses to give up child adoption services because they are unable to agree with adoption by same-sex couples — a betrayal of Catholic principles on the immorality of homosexual practice.

The Secretary of State has now given a specific doctrinal reason to justify religious persecution by claiming that the Church is an obstacle to the implementation of human rights! Indeed, if “human rights” are identified with the “rights of homosexuals,” by condemning homosexual practice the Church would be setting up obstacles to respecting “human rights.”

These concepts are found in the Remarks in Recognition of International Human Rights Day, presented by the Secretary of State to the United Nations’ Human Rights Commission in Geneva on December 6, 2011.² The document affirms that “gay rights and human rights... are one and the same.”

For the Secretary of State, “obstacles standing in the way of protecting the human rights of LGBT people rest on deeply held personal, political, cultural, and religious beliefs.” The Remarks argue that alleging religious principles to reject the “rights” of homosexuals “is not unlike the justification offered for violent practices towards women like honor killings, widow burning, or female genital mutilation.” Thus, the Remarks say, “slavery… was once justified as sanctioned by God [all emphasis ours].”

The Secretary of State continues: “[N]o practice or tradition trumps the human rights that belong to all of us. And this holds true for inflicting violence on LGBT people, criminalizing their status or behavior, expelling them from their families and communities, or tacitly or explicitly accepting their killing.”

Therefore, religion is supposedly a factor of persecution and violence. Furthermore, when religion is seen as opposed to “human rights,” it begins to be looked at as inhuman and thus unnatural. Thus, the struggle on behalf of human rights presumably requires combating religion – any religion – regardless of is doctrines and practices.

A Religion Closed Up in Church
The Remarks by the Secretary of State distinguish between religious belief and practice: while there is freedom to believe in religious precepts, putting them into practice requires conformity with the new “human rights” theory, that is, the person must resign himself to accepting the legitimacy of homosexual behavior.

Indeed, the Remarks read,

“Universal human rights include freedom of expression and freedom of belief, even if our words or beliefs denigrate the humanity of others. Yet, while we are each free to believe whatever we choose, we cannot do whatever we choose, not in a world where we protect the human rights of all.”

Religion is thus reduced to mere interior beliefs without consequences in real life.

Now then, to the Catholic religion in particular, this distinction is an absurdity. The reason is that morals – that is, the set of principles that regulate human behavior before God and neighbor – are not dissociable from dogma. Indeed, it is in his practical life that man bears testimony to his faith and leads his life according to the Law of God. On the other hand, revealed morals is an explicitation of natural law, accessible to man through the light of reason, which also originates in God, the Creator of all things.

As a consequence, not only moral theology would no longer make any sense but also the moral philosophy and ethics found in every manual of philosophy beginning with the Greek and Roman pagans.

Can Homosexual Behavior Be Equated with Race?
At the same time, the Remarks liken LGBT people to “races” and “religious minorities.”

“Like being a woman, like being a racial, religious, tribal, or ethnic minority, being LGBT does not make you less human. And that is why gay rights are human rights, and human rights are gay rights.”

“Costs are incurred whenever any group is treated as lesser or the other, whether they are women, racial, or religious minorities, or the LGBT.”

However, a behavior such as the practice of homosexuality cannot be equated with a physical type or a cultural standard. While ethnic characteristics are inherited with the genetic patrimony and cultural features passed on with upbringing, individual behavior depends on the person’s free will. There is no such thing as a scientific proof of the existence of a homosexual gene that would lead people compulsively to act in a homosexual fashion. Nor is the anatomy or physiology of homosexuals different from those of other human beings.

The same God Who revealed truths on what we must believe also revealed truths on how we are to live. Footnotes 1. David Kerr, “Cardinal Burke reflects on his first year in the Sacred College,” http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/cardinal-burke-reflects-on-his-first-year-in-the-sacred-college/. [back] 2. Hillary Rodham Clinton, “Remarks in Recognition of International Human Rights Day,” Dec. 6, 2011, http://www.state.gov/secretary/rm/2011/12/178368.htm. [back] 3. 1 John 2:16. [back] 4. Cf. Romans 8:21. [back]

The Liberty of the Children of God
We Catholics belong to a militant Church. Militant, because She is in this world and must face the “world” in the spiritual sense of the word, that is, “the concupiscence of the flesh, and the concupiscence of the eyes, and the pride of life, which is not of the Father, but is of the world.”³

By heeding Cardinal Burke’s appeal, we will bear a “strong witness” to our faith according to the laws of God and to the just laws of men in order to ensure the true liberty of the children of God.⁴

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How Can the Leading Archbishop in the U.K. Supports Civil Unions?

The Archbishop of Westminster, leading cleric in England and Wales, said the following words at a recent press conference following the Bishops' meeting:

'We would want to emphasise that civil partnerships actually provide a structure in which people of the same sex who want a lifelong relationship [and] a lifelong partnership can find their place and protection and legal provision.

Full story here:

http://rorate-caeli.blogspot.com/2011/11/abp-nichols-civil-partnerships-provide.html

Scene From an Exciting Traditional Marriage Rally: You Can Do One Too!

Here are some pictures from a traditional marriage rally carried out on Sunday, November 20, by young teenage Catholics in Rockford, Il. The public reception to the campaign was truly overwhelmingly favorable and encouraging.

If you would like a banner, like the one shown below, and do a rally like the one shown in these photos, please call Alexander McKay at 717-225-7147, ext. 228.

Same-sex “Marriage”: Accept it or Resign!

Writen by John Horvat II

When the New York state legislature rammed through a law “legalizing” same-sex “marriage” this last summer, countless New Yorkers disagreed with the decision. Among them were Christian town clerks who could not in good conscience sign marriage licenses for a union they consider sinful.

Clauses were written in the law that supposedly protect clergy from being forced to act against their faith. However, such clauses do not apply to town clerks or any other government official.

Clerks are told point blank, either accept the law, or resign. Town clerk Rose Marie Belforti of Ledyard, New York found out the hard way. When the law passed, Belforti, a dairy owner and cheese maker, decided her Christian conscience would not allow her to sign same-sex “marriage” licenses. She did not deny them a license but merely asked that another official sign such licenses in her place. Since that other official is not always in, applicants are now asked to make an appointment.

When two applicants of the same sex did indeed ask for a license, the arrangement did not satisfy them. They were outraged by the inconvenience of making an appointment with the clerk’s substitute who now signs all licenses. The case has raised a tempest among the homosexual network nationwide. Indignant cries of religious bigotry and disregard for the law have been leveled against Rose Marie Belforti. Her dairy’s Facebook page now has abusive comments charging her with homophobia where once there were compliments about her bleu cheese.

In the sleepy town of less than 500 families, the local town clerk that normally issued ten licenses a year has been put in the national spotlight. Lawyers are threatening lawsuits against the unassuming dairy farmer. People for the American Way and the law firm Proskauer Rose are now co-representing the two applicants as they demand that Belforti either issue the marriage licenses against her conscience or resign. Online petitions are circulating asking that the clerk be dismissed.

Public officials can’t pick and choose the laws they want to follow,” cries an indignant Michael Keegan, President of People For the American Way Foundation. “If a public official simply decides to shirk the obligations of her office, then she should resign and be replaced by someone who will do the job and carry out state law.”

Drew Courtney, a spokesman for People for the American Way points out: "She has a job to do. That job is to administer the paperwork and licenses of marriages in accordance with the state laws that govern it."

However, it seems the do-your-job-or-resign option only works one way. When it comes to the promotion of the homosexual cause, it appears officials can pick and choose which laws they want to defend. However, there is no indignation from offended liberals when these public officials refuse to do their job and carry out the law.

The most obvious case is the February decision of the Obama Administration’s decision that its Justice Department will no longer defend the constitutionality of Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) banning federal recognition of same-sex “marriage.” The House of Representatives was forced to assume the responsibility for defending the abandoned law signed by then-President Bill Clinton in 1996.

The constitutionality of laws is, of course, determined by the courts -- not by the executive branch. However, in this case favoring the homosexual agenda, it seems the public official can shirk the responsibility of the office and flatly refuse to defend the law of the land.

A second case in point is that of Proposition 8 in California. Voters across the state decided to amend the State Constitution and recognize marriage as between one man and one woman. Since the constitution is the law of the state, state officials are obliged to defend that law despite their personal opinions. However, when the amendment was challenged, then-California Attorney General Jerry Brown and then-Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger refused to defend the amendment which is part of the State Constitution. Defenders of traditional marriage are now petitioning to ask if they can defend the disregarded rights of the majority that voted for Proposition 8.

In the case of Rose Marie Belforti, she has not refused to carry out the law or grant licenses. She merely delegated it to others. However, in the case of DOMA and Proposition 8, the elected executives have unilaterally decided not to uphold the present law. No one from People For the American Way is calling for these elected officials to resign.

There is a double standard here that must be addressed. Obviously the uproar in New York is not about the principle of law that is supposedly being transgressed. It is about an agenda that tramples upon the conscience of officeholders, disregards laws and constitutions and ignores the opinions of majorities. It is agenda that forces itself upon the nation and is definitely not part of the American Way.

NEW VIDEO: Statewide Tour for Traditional Marriage Meets Incredible Support in Illinois

In a new effort to protect true marriage in Illinois, ten young TFP volunteers departed from Pennsylvania to Chicago on August 19 for an action-packed 18-stop tour.

“Where the rubber hits to road” is a good way to describe the Saint Joseph Caravan in defense of traditional marriage. Before reaching Chicago, our first destination, leaking trailer tires forced us to stop for repairs. Back on the road, torrential rain mixed with hail forced us to pull off the highway again, and only 740 miles later we were graciously welcomed by a family near Chicago. They fed us a delicious dinner, generously provided lodging, and in the morning, saw us off after a hearty round of German pancakes.

Spiritually fortified by the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at St. John Cantius in Chicago, we prepared for an intense week.

First stop: Downtown Chicago

Our first campaign stop on August 22 was at Daley Plaza, downtown Chicago, a location with plenty of pedestrian traffic. Although a few passersby stopped to argue, most were vocal in their support of authentic marriage. In addition to our usual compliment of banners, fliers and bagpipes, our campaign was enhanced by the presence of local pro-family volunteers.

Daley Plaza, downtown Chicago.

Our next stops for the day were at the Thompson Center, the Art Institute and Union Station. The amount of people walking the sidewalks was incredible making it easy to distribute fliers, 10 Reasons Why Homosexual “Marriage” is Harmful and Must Be Opposed.

“I’ve seen you at the March for Life in Washington, D.C.,” remarked several passersby who were enthusiastic to see us on the streets opposing the culture of death in their hometown. Seconds later, an angry pedestrian yelled “go home!” But two men within earshot immediately came to our defense: “No! Don’t go home,” they said, “we need you to stay here.” And we stayed, of course.

TFP volunteer explains why true marriage must be protected.

One man approached each TFP volunteer, repeating: “Your ignorance and hate is not appreciated.” When asked why he was not demonstrating tolerance, he shot back: “I do not tolerate the Church!” What a revealing comment.

The anti-family bully at Union Station

At Union Station, a self-proclaimed homosexual who claimed to be a Notre Dame graduate, class of 1982, rudely interrupted our final prayer with loud shouts. As we peacefully recited the Hail Mary on the street corner, he attempted to disturb our prayer: “Why won’t you talk to me?! You straight stalkers!” He continued: “I’ve been ‘married’ to my ‘husband’ long than you’ve been alive…”

About fifty people waiting at the crosswalk just stared and listened in various degrees of shock. As soon as a TFP volunteer offered a reply, the anti-family advocate simply raised his agitated voice: “These guys want to tell us how to live.” He obviously wanted to turn the pedestrians against us, but his plan backfired.

“You don’t know anything. You aren’t even married?” he continued. TFP member Preston Noell replied: “As single men, we live celibate lives and we cherish the virtue of chastity.” When he heard that, he was momentarily struck dumb. Then a middle-age man stepped out of the crowd, and said: “I’m married to a woman and support their message.” By now, a sizable crown had gathered, reaching out for fliers and information about the campaign. It was great. We got out a record amount of fliers in no time. Moments later, two ladies walked forward and confronted the yelling pro-homosexual individual toe to toe, making a strong case for traditional marriage with passion and courage.

Another TFP volunteer chimed in. “It’s interesting how the homosexual movement shut down Catholic Charities’ adoption program in Washington, D.C., which served thousands of children, for refusing to place children with same-sex couples. Why do they put their agenda above the good of children and persecute those with moral convictions?”

No answer…

Wearied by a long yet successful day we returned to our host family’s home for a very welcome rest.


Non-Stop Honking for God’s Marriage on the South side of Chicago

August 23: Today’s first campaign was on the South side of Chicago on Stoney Island Ave. Here, support was overwhelming. During the entire campaign there were no more then perhaps ten negative reactions, while non-stop horn honking by about 90% of those driving past the intersection was so, so loud that is was almost impossible to hold a conversation on the sidewalk without shouting. Local pro-family leaders joined the campaign, multiplying the number of pro-traditional marriage signs and “Honk for Traditional Marriage” posters on display.

WOW! So many people honked their support for traditional marriage on the south side of Chicago that is was vitually impossible to hear oneself talk.

Reporters from Chicago’s Channel 5, who just happened to be driving by, were so impressed with the sight that they decided to pull over to film the event, even though they were on a different assignment.

In the afternoon, we campaigned in the Pilsen Neighborhood, where our Spanish version of the flier was a big hit. At this location, a Catholic priest joined us and several policemen kept a watchful eye on the intersection. “Where are you going next?” asked one of the officers. “We want to make sure you’re protected.”


Stops in Springfield and Peoria

August 24: Today’s first campaign was in Springfield, the capitol of Illinois. Again, more outstanding pro-family defenders joined us.

A Catholic priest paused at the intersection near the Old Capitol for a long while to read our banner and signs. “Are you getting a lot of support?” he asked. “Yes. Just listen to all those honks,” responded a TFP volunteer. “That’s good,” he continued: “I’ve become bolder in my old age. Now, when I see evil, I confront it. To give you an idea just how bad things have gotten at my parish, I had to stop giving the sign of peace at Mass because same-sex couples would make out in Church,” he said with concern. “Now, instead, I just bow to the Cross and say ‘may God have mercy on us.’”

From the Old Capitol, we marched about six blocks to the current Capitol building. On the steps of the complex, in front of the large statue of Abraham Lincoln, we resumed our campaign. As the sound of bagpipes echoed across the green, we held our “Honk for Traditional Marriage” signs high, and distributed flyers. Wearied by the heat, but with enthusiasm undiminished, we proceeded into the domed capitol. Entering the rotunda, the sound of Amazing Grace on the bagpipes reverberated in the dome. A final prayer was said and we left to our next destination: Peoria.

In Peoria we campaigned at two locations: Bradley University and the Court House. Local pro-life volunteers with the Family Resources Center joined both these rallies for traditional marriage, which garnered radio and television coverage.

Please pray for us as we move forward on this crusade to defend traditional marriage.


Campaigning in Joliet, Aurora, and Naperville

August 25: Today’s campaigns, along busy roadways and intersections, brought some of the most polarized reactions yet.

On the positive side, we received countless expressions of thanks, encouragement, applause, and support. Especially in Aurora, the number of young people who honked in support was noticeable. With a broad smile, a motorist remarked: “I’ve never seen so many people honk for a sign.”

Aurora: Many young adults supported the campaign at this location.

From his car, a veteran said: “I was in the Army, and that’s what we believe; one man, one woman. Thank you!”

“Are you going to get in front of my car so that I can run you over?” was how another man reacted after erupting into a string of overused profanities and direct verbal attacks against God. “If you ran me over,” responded TFP member John Ritchie, “it would be a crime.” Without hesitation, the pro-homosexual individual loudly retorted: “No, it wouldn’t be a crime, you half-breed, zombie God-worshiper.”

In the first such incident of the caravan, TFP volunteer Joseph Jordan was the victim of a criminal assault. A full can of soda was hurled with significant force from a passing car driving at about 35 mph. Fortunately, the sign he was holding deflected most of the impact. If the soda had hit him on the head, for example, it would have caused considerable harm. Before the day was out, another soda can, this one empty, came our way. This second projectile was dodged, and clattered harmlessly on the sidewalk.

Despite these displays of “tolerance” from pro-homosexual individuals, the campaigns continued with enthusiasm. Contrary to what many people have been led to believe, those who know God’s Law, and wish to see it respected, are a clear majority.


Great Turn Out for Traditional Marriage in Rockford

Our first stop today, August 26, was Rockford, where we were joined by almost 20 local pro-lifers. With our ranks thus swelled, we were able to take our message to the public more visibly than ever.

TV interview in Chicago. To support TFP Student Action's work, please consider sending a donation here.

“I’m surprised how much support you’re getting,” commented one motorist. “Most people agree with you. The problem is that the politicians are out of touch,” he lamented. “What do we do about that?”

Another: “Thank you so much. You give us hope for the youth!”

Our next two stops were in Crystal Lake and Palatine, northwest of Chicago. Again, support was excellent. A reporter with the Daily Herald covered the campaign in Palatine.

And after we wrapped up with a prayer, dismantled our standard and rolled up our banner, we directed our steps to the van. As we crossed the busy cross walk, a gentleman in his car honked and joyfully said: “You cleaned up pretty well.”

The tour is now over, but the spiritual crusade continues.

May God protect America from the homosexual agenda and continue to fortify those who defend the sacred institution of marriage from redefinition.

New York Town Clerk Quits over Same-sex "Marriage" Licenses

A town clerk in western New York has resigned to avoid being forced to sign marriage licenses for homosexual couples, citing religious objections to same-sex "marriage."

Laura Fotusky, the town clerk in Barker, New York, said in her resignation letter that she will step down on July 21, three days before such unions become legal.

Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the same sex "marriage" law last month after the bill narrowly passed the Republican-led state Senate.

The new law exempts religious groups from performing same-sex "marriages" but does not extend those protections to individuals, including government employees.

Fotusky wrote in her letter, dated July 11, she said she believes the Bible takes precedence over man-made laws.

"The Bible clearly teaches that God created marriage between male and female as a divine gift that preserves families and cultures. Since I love and follow Him, I cannot put my signature on something that is against God," she wrote.

"I would be compromising my moral conscience if I participated in the licensing procedure," she wrote.

New York Same-Sex “Marriage”: Did Catholic Bishops “Shrink from the Fight?”

Written by Luiz Sérgio Solimeo

After intense lobbying and propaganda by the homosexual movement, and thanks to the earnest efforts of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and some last-minute turncoat Republicans, same-sex “marriage” was approved and signed into law in the Empire State. The Omission of Catholic Bishops Nevertheless, neither the efforts by Governor Cuomo—who takes pride in being a Catholic in good standing with the bishops[1]—nor the other factors mentioned above would have sufficed to approve a law that tramples upon natural law and Revelation. It was necessary to neutralize the main power that could prevent such approval—the Holy, Roman, Catholic and Apostolic Church. It was necessary to ensure that the hierarchy would not mobilize the faithful to stand up in defense of the Faith and morals. And the truth is that the Catholic Church was largely absent during this fight. This absence is recognized by none other than the ultra secular New York Times, which clearly campaigned for the law’s approval. On June 25, 2011, under the title, “Behind N.Y. Gay Marriage, an Unlikely Mix of Forces,” Michael Barbaro published in the Times a long and detailed analysis on how the approval of same sex “marriage” was made possible. He explains the role played by millionaire contributors to the Republican Party who supported the law, the intense behind-the-scenes maneuvering in political and other circles, and states, “The Catholic Church, arguably the only institution with the authority and reach to derail same-sex marriage, seemed to shrink from the fight.”[2] He notes that Archbishop Dolan refrained from going to Albany during the polemic and traveled to Seattle on the very week when the issue was coming to a vote. And when the archbishop did make a statement against same sex “marriage,” almost in extremis, “it was over the phone to an Albany-area radio show.” This omission was all the more serious since, as the religious chronicler of USA Today writes, the “key vote” that enabled the law’s approval was that of a Catholic senator, Mark Grisanti (Rep.-Erie and Niagara counties).[3] Whoever Conquers Public Opinion, Takes the Prize Unfortunately, the Catholic bishops seemed to have lost sight of the principle that political struggles are not won in backstage maneuvering but by winning over public opinion; and that a few statements, albeit well articulated, are not enough to achieve this. The public wants leadership and is moved above all by example, concrete actions and symbolic gestures. On their own initiative, some organizations of lay Catholics, including the American TFP, took to the streets to influence public opinion directly. Many Protestant and Jewish leaders promoted rallies in Albany and New York City, particularly Senator Ruben Diaz (Dem.-Bronx), a great defender of true marriage. Yet, the bishops failed to rally Catholics and encourage them to struggle vigorously against the looming threat, which denies the very principle of morality that “good must be done, and evil must be avoided.” Nor is there any record of their summoning priests to speak out earnestly and repeatedly from the Sunday pulpits; of engaging the media with a barrage of interviews, op-eds, articles and speeches; of marshalling men and women religious and the laity itself for an intense campaign of prayer, sacrifice, fasting and public witness to prevent the collective sin of legalized same-sex “marriage” in the Empire State, a great offense and challenge to God. Remember Sodom and Gomorrah The nature of marriage as the fertile and stable union between a man and a woman derives from natural law, from human nature itself. It is the cornerstone of the family, itself the basic building block of society. In addition to having been elevated by Our Lord to the level of a sacrament, the conjugal union of one man and one woman reflects the fundamental moral principles of the Decalogue. The commandments, “do not sin against chastity” and “do not commit adultery” stem from the First Commandment, “love God above all things.” If disobeying God’s Law does not matter, and if it is indifferent to marry according to the laws of nature and Christian Revelation or to enter into a same-sex “marriage” which is its complete opposite, then God either does not exist or He does not take things seriously, which is the same thing (a non-serious God is a contradiction in terms.) If in addition to following natural law we also prize, as we should, the gift par excellence of the Faith, then we cannot see the punishment of Sodom and Gomorrah as a fairy tale. While God obviously does not send punishments like that of Sodom and Gomorrah all the time, there is no doubt that He wanted to turn the punishment of those cities, immersed as they were in the sin against nature, into an example for the whole history of mankind. He wanted to show the seriousness of that sin and His revulsion for it. Obedient and Respectful Laity, Yet Enjoying the Freedom of Children of God With the above considerations, we do not intend to issue a judgment on the attitude of the Archbishop of New York or the other bishops of the Empire State but rather to manifest our anguish as faithful and obedient Catholics (who nonetheless enjoy the freedom of the children of God[4]) and register our protest and inconformity with New York’s legalization of same-sex “marriage.” We pray for our Shepherds and hope that, with God’s grace, they will follow Saint Paul’s advice to Titus: “Preach the word: be instant in season, out of season: reprove, entreat, rebuke in all patience and doctrine.”[5] “To Thee Have I Lifted up my Eyes, who Dwellest in Heaven” Like the Prophet David, in our anguish we turn our eyes to God, beseeching His help and protection,“To thee have I lifted up my eyes, who dwellest in heaven.”[6] And as followers of the spiritual school of Saint Louis Marie de Montfort, we turn particularly to Mary Most Holy, Comforter of the Afflicted, and reiterate our certainty in the victory foreseen at Fatima: “Finally, my Immaculate Heart will triumph!” [1] “One of Andrew Cuomo's first acts after his inauguration as New York's governor…he went to Mass and received communion. …he attended the Jan. 2 Mass with his live-in girlfriend, Sandra Lee…who is also Catholic and divorced…at Albany's Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception—presided over by the local bishop, Howard Hubbard.” (David Gibson, “Andrew Cuomo Takes Communion and Revives the 'Good Catholic' Debate,” Politics Daily, Jan. 7, 2011, http://www.politicsdaily.com/2011/01/07/andrew-cuomo-takes-communion-and-revives-the-good-catholic-deb/print/; “…a photograph of Mr. Cuomo shaking hands with Archbishop Dolan hangs in the governor’s private office.” (Michael Barbaro, “Behind N.Y. Gay Marriage, an Unlikely Mix of Forces” The New York Times, June 25, 2011, http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/26/nyregion/the-road-to-gay-marriage-in-new-york.html?_r=1&pagewanted=print). [2] Barbaro, “Behind N.Y. Gay Marriage.” (Our emphasis.) [3] Cathy Lynn Grossman, “Key vote for N.Y. gay marriage 'not just Catholic',” USA Today, June 26, 2011, http://content.usatoday.com/communities/Religion/post/2011/06/gay-marriage-passes-ny-religion-/1. [4] Cf. Rom. 8:21; Gal. 2:4. [5] 2 Timothy 4:2. [6] Psalms 122/123

VIDEO: What New Yorkers Really Think about Same-Sex “Marriage”

You won’t find this type of candid footage on CNN, MSNBC, CBS, ABC or even Fox News, but it shows you what the liberal media would like to hide: New Yorkers do not want the sacred institution of marriage -- ordained by God -- redefined, tampered or destroyed.

In Albany for Traditional Marriage

We campaigned in downtown Albany, near the capitol building. It was excellent. However, we saw billboards around Albany that promote homosexuality. One reads: “I am gay and I am here to stay.” We also noticed rainbow flags hanging from a Lutheran church and various shops.

Defending true marriage in downtown Albany, near the state capitol.

“This is the classiest protest I’ve ever seen,” remarked a businessman with a smile. At this location, one could more easily have one-on-one discussions and share pro-family literature. Passing cars honked too. In fact, when CBS 6 arrived to cover the campaign, the camera man could hardly concentrate on his interview questions due to all the honking.

Compromise = failure

“We need to give in a little bit to show goodwill,” said a man who stopped to talk. “Take a step in favor of same-sex ‘marriage’ and you will attract more people to your cause…” His centrist tone was calculated to discourage but easy to detect. “If each successive generation gives in a little, where will society end up?” asked TFP volunteer Matthew Shibler. Compromise on non-negotiable issues only leads to defeat. As we can clearly see, successive concessions have only placed society on the slippery slope of moral decay and self-destruction. Contraception leads to abortion, abortion and promiscuity leads to same-sex “marriage, and so on.

Then TFP member Norman Fulkerson chimed in: “History is not made by the masses, but by small groups of principled and dedicated men who defend what is right, even when it’s unpopular or politically incorrect.”

TFP member Norman Fulkerson talks about the need to defend marriage.

Visit to the State House

After praying in the beautiful historic church of St. Mary’s, TFP volunteers directed their steps to the State House. In teams of two, we visited the office of every New York state leader, delivering handouts in favor of God-ordained marriage. Reactions were mixed.

Our youngest TFP volunteer, James, a New York resident, was actually expelled from one of the offices by a yelling woman who displayed a rainbow flag on her desk. “Get out of my office,” she repeated, and so vociferously, that other TFP volunteers heard the shouts from the outside corridor. James, only 15, was rather shocked by this uncivil reaction.

Campaign despite rain and hail

Rush-hour traffic on Central Ave. near Colonie Mall was congested and sluggish, perfect for a campaign. The sheer volume of traffic meant that our message would reach a large audience and be very effective.

Dark clouds soon precipitated a heavy downpour, giving us a good soaking, which was not completely unwelcome since the blistering sun was intense. The scene was rather dramatic: rain, bumper-to-bumper traffic, loud and constant honking for traditional marriage, and an occasional insult. Then, moments after praying our customary three Hail Marys to wrap up for the day, the rain turned into hail the size of small ice cubes. The wind picked up too, hurling shopping carts across the parking lot like little toys. Almost drenched to the bone, we loaded our vehicles after a very successful day of campaigns in defense of God’s eternal law.

Hail the size of small ice cubes pelted us at the end of the day.

May God grant us victory

May our small sacrifices and efforts to save traditional marriage in New York be pleasing to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and, through the maternal intercession of Our Lady, attract God’s blessing and yet another victory for the family.

Please continue to pray for triumph of true marriage in New York and thank you so much for all your support.

A Talk with the Bronx's Lone Marriage Supporter

Written by John Horvat

June 16, 2011

Members of the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property (TFP) recently campaigned on the streets of the Bronx in favor of traditional marriage. As is our custom, our members gathered at busy intersections with signs clearly stating our position. As a means of engaging the motorists, signs ask them to “honk for traditional marriage.” Often overwhelming numbers do honk in a symphony of support that is impressive and encouraging. During this particular campaign in the Bronx, a man walked up to the members in the street with a very interesting story. He said that he had just past our campaign in his car. He had read the sign and had even honked his support. However, as he passed he had some doubts. So many people were honking that he feared that he had misread the signs. He turned around, parked his car and went to the campaign site to make sure he got it right. He was very happy to see that he had. He told our members that the reason for his doubt was that, despite the clearly visible message on the signs, he thought it was impossible that so many people had honked in favor of traditional marriage. The public pressure is so intense that he felt he was “the only person that supported traditional marriage in the whole Bronx.” Now he saw that thousands and thousands of his fellow New Yorkers in the Bronx thought like him. The story is highly revealing. New Yorkers and Americans in general, are feeling the pressure to adopt a politically correct position on this issue. The media is bombarding the public with news items about gay pride marches, rainbow flag raisings and celebrity endorsements for same-sex “marriage.” Pro-family events hardly get a decent mention. In the workplace, the schools and even the churches there is a steady stream of pro-homosexual propaganda that discourages anyone to speak out. Anyone who offers a contrary opinion risks being intolerantly labeled “intolerant” or being called a “bigot.” Thus, there is a silence around the issue since many reason it is easier to simply be silent than speak out. This silence manages to convey the idea that each traditional marriage supporter is alone. No one thinks like they do. One has to ask how many lonely other Bronx marriage supporters are out there waiting to find others who think as they do. That is why it is important that traditional marriage supporters speak out. Every protest in the streets shows just how false this impression is. Every referendum (now numbering 31) to enshrine traditional marriage in state constitutions shows just how unpopular the same-sex “marriage” message is. When marriage supporters are vocal, they will see amazing support. They will see that friends, neighbors and fellow citizens who they never imagined would favor marriage are on their side. If you have any doubts, ask the only traditional marriage supporter in the Bronx.

VIDEO: Pro-Homosexual Advocate Destroys Traditional Marriage Banner in New York

TFP Student Action members were assaulted while peacefully demonstrating for traditional marriage in Fairport, New York, on June 2.

As young TFP volunteers stood at the corner of Main Street and Church Street with signs, a pro-homosexualist hurled himself against the group’s thirteen foot long banner inscribed with “God’s Marriage = 1 Man & 1 Woman.” The banner, held by three volunteers, was knocked down and violently torn to pieces.

Pro-homosexual advocate violently tears up TFP banner in Fairport, New York.

The assailant also threatened to destroy the group’s cameras used to document their campaigns for moral values. “I’ll smash your camera,” he said. Approaching another TFP volunteer who was holding a sign that read “Honk for Traditional Marriage,” the aggressor said: “Are you going to give me your sign, or do I need to rip it up too!?”

Assault with glass bottle

In a separate incident at the same demonstration, another supporter of "gay marriage" threw a beer bottle at TFP volunteer Michael Shibler from a moving vehicle. The glass bottle hit him on the forehead, causing it to swell and bleed. Local police are investigating both incidents.

“These bully tactics do not even slightly dampen my resolve to continue promoting the truth about marriage in charity. Our cause is noble and we will win,” said Shibler.

“Some say that same-sex ‘marriage’ doesn’t harm or affect anybody. Well, I think my throbbing forehead is a good example of how it does harm people. Anti-family proponents would like to completely silence my first amendment right to free speech,” he said. “While demanding tolerance for what they call 'diversity,' they are utterly intolerant of opposing viewpoints.”

TFP volunteers and members of Citizens for a Decent Community joined forces in Rochester, New York, to defend true marriage.

On their tour for traditional marriage, TFP Student Action members are distributing flyers titled 10 Reasons Why Homosexual "Marriage" Is Harmful and Must Be Opposed. It calls on New Yorkers to firmly and peacefully resist the advance of the so-called gay-rights movement.

Help us stay on the road

To help us stay on the road for traditional marriage, please consider filling our gas tank. With an intense travel schedule, our fifteen passenger van consumes about one tank of gasoline per day. Your gift of $79.00 will keep us going for 330 miles.

Sponsor 1 Tank (330 miles) = $79
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Sponsor 3 Tanks (990 miles) = $237

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If you want to contact us on the tour, please call 717-495-5427. God bless you.

Tolerance?

TFP Student Action is again on the road as they support traditional marriage in New York state.

Yesterday, they gathered at a street corner near Rochester holding a large banner reading "God's marriage = 1 man + 1 woman." marriage."

As usual, many drivers honked and gave the men a thumbs-up while a few shouted profanities, threw objects and made vulgar gestures as they drove past.

However, police responded to the scene when a young man charged TFP members tore the banner to pieces and attempted unsuccessfully to light it on fire.

The picture, which we have titled "Tolerance," is one of the piece of the TFP banner.

TFP Student Action brought two extra banners.

Video: Thousands March to Save Marriage in New York City

By the time the sun rose on the morning of May 15th, members of the American Society for the Defense of Tradition, Family and Property (TFP) were already at work, preparing for the day’s activities. Our vehicles were soon rolling to their destination: The heart of New York City – the Bronx. Our purpose: to join a march for traditional marriage organized by State Sen. Ruben Diaz (D-Bronx) and other pro-family leaders.

"We support traditional marriage between one man and one woman."

Under a light drizzle, we disembarked at 149th St and 3rd Ave and assembled the Holy Choirs of Angels Corps marching band. Invited to lead off the march, we positioned ourselves accordingly. Soon, thousands of traditional marriage supporters surged forward to the sound of God Bless America, holding signs that read: “Adam & Eve = Family,” and “Don’t Change Marriage.”

As the TFP band played stirring marches and patriotic music, people lined the streets and leaned out of windows to see the parade. Although a few passers-by were quite vocal in their opposition, the overall response was positive.

Thousands of traditional marriage supporters gather at the Courthouse.

After marching the twelve blocks to the Bronx County Courthouse located on the Grand Concourse, a line-up of speakers addressed thousands of people from the court house steps, voicing their commitment to the cause of marriage. The national anthem was sung followed by a rendition of God Bless America by the TFP band. In his speech, Sen. Diaz mentioned how he had received death threats from pro-homosexual advocates for simply defending the institution of God-ordained marriage. Other speakers included Fr. Peter West, Associate Director of Priests for Life, and Brian Brown, President of the National Organization for Marriage.

The TFP band kicked off the march with patriotic music.

Our banner, visible to the assembled thousands, boldly proclaimed: “God’s Marriage = One Man + One Woman.” Our flyer, 10 Reasons Why Homosexual “Marriage” is Harmful and Must Be Opposed, was very well received in both English and Spanish.

For the good of the family, let us continue to pray that more and more souls will stand up and peacefully oppose the homosexual agenda, especially in its latest effort to impose same-sex “marriage” on the state of New York.

2+2=5: The Case for Number Equality

by John Horvat II

There are so many politically correct causes out there that it would not surprise me that even the most basic truths might be called into question.

For example, I was taught in my arithmetic class in primary school that 2+3=5 and any other answer would defeat the arithmetic purpose of counting. However, I could imagine confronting an activist that would contest this primary truth and proudly proclaim that 2+2=5.

The activist would affirm that in the name of “number equality” there is no real reason why 2 and 2 cannot add up to 5. All numbers are equal and they can pretty much add up to what we want them to mean. As long as we can add them together, why not allow them to equal 5?

Of course, my reply would be that 2+2 is simply not 5 no matter how much you wish it to be so. If you do this, you will destroy arithmetic. As soon as I say this, I already expect to hear the indignant response of the number equality activist almost shouting at me:

Why can’t 2+2=5? How concretely does my believing this hurt you? You are free to believe 2+3=5. Why do you hate those who proclaim the contrary? How does this destroy arithmetic?

Of course, the fact that my activist opponent believes that 2+2=5 does not really concretely hurt me. It will not directly destroy arithmetic. There are plenty of individuals out there who believe crazy things and this one would merely join the crowd of flat earthers.

However, the problem starts when the activist’s ideas start gaining acceptance and spreading around. Suddenly, merchants will be confronted by number equality activists who insist upon paying $4 for five dollar purchases. If the merchant refuses, he finds himself surrounded by activists screaming discrimination and insisting upon receiving five-dollar goods.

While even this might not destroy arithmetic, it certainly would cause major mathematical problems and agitation inside all areas of society where numbers have importance. As time goes on it would start to wear upon society.

The next phase, however, is where the real problems start. Suffering from the discrimination of merchants and other number-intensive trades (engineers for example), the activists will seek to have their cause recognized by the state. For too long, 2+3=5 has dominated arithmetic. In the name of equality and diversity, the 2+2 crowd will demand recognition and acceptance for number equality and arithmetic rights. They might even put some provisions in the law to punish those mathematically incorrect who refuse this recognition.

Even at this point, the activist will insist that the 2+3 people have nothing to fear. They are still free to believe in their cause as a kind of parallel universe where numbers don’t merely add up but serve a function in society.

Then we reach the final phase of the number equality agenda and here we return full circle to where it all begins. With state recognition of 2+2=5, the primary schools would be forced to teach that both 2+2 AND 2+3 are equal to 5. The children are free to choose which option or options they feel more comfortable with. And here, yes, arithmetic is destroyed since it can no longer fulfill its function of counting.

I am reminded of the number equality activists in the same-sex “marriage” debate. One man and one woman equal marriage. It has a specific function in society of procreation, the mutual affection of spouses and the education of children. The minute you introduce another formation which features a naturally contraceptive union, it is not marriage no matter how much marriage “equality” activists insist that it is. The minute you get state recognition for this new formula and insist that it be equally taught to children as marriage, marriage is destroyed.

It is something that should be as obvious as 2+3=5.

Defending the Citadel of Marriage

It is one of those strange contradictions of the liberals that they change their position when it suits them.

It was back in the sixties when they began their brutal attack on marriage. Feminists hated the institution because they said it enslaved them. Sexual liberation was to be extended to all consenting parties.

Everything was done to take away the prestige and esteem of this cherished institution. Soon it became fashionable for couples simply to live together. The results are well known. The institution of marriage has suffered immense damage. We see the consequences of free love in the proliferation of single-parent households, no-fault divorce, abortion, contraception, sexually transmitted diseases and deviant sexual lifestyles of all sorts.

The only way marriage could valiantly defend itself was by not yielding and insisting that it remain a permanent union of exclusion admitting no others. Brave husbands and wives have resisted the free love onslaught of the sexual revolution and, although battered by the cultural war, the sacred standard of marriage still waves from the citadel despite everything.

Now it seems those who were so anti-marriage have become pro-marriage.

When marriage becomes an insurmountable obstacle for the sexual revolutionary agenda of free love, liberals have no problem of trying to turn marriage into an institution to promote their agenda in the form of same-sex “marriage.”

That is why the same people who promote the whole range of sexual revolutionary positions can now be found extolling the wonders of same-sex “marriage.”

When marriage becomes an insurmountable obstacle for the sexual revolutionary agenda of free love, those same people who were so anti-marriage, now promote their agenda in the form of same-sex “marriage.”

Those same people who called marriage enslaving in the sixties, now insist upon their “right to marry” today.

They have not changed their positions on abortion, contraception, divorce or free love. They still enthusiastically support these anti-marriage positions. We will find these liberals fleeing from chastity, abstinence, modesty and virginity like bats flee from light.

However, they take this new position because they know that, as long as the sacred standard of indissoluble marriage waves from the citadel, society recognizes the fact that morality still exists. As long as a morality still is perceived to exist, the agenda of free love suffers restraint which they find unbearable.

That is why they want to destroy the citadel not from outside marriage but from within. They seek to tear away the bonds of exclusivity that makes marriage what it is. That exclusivity that marked marriage as a fruitful and permanent union of one man and one woman now must become inclusive and sterile.

It is in the nature of the unbridled passions to accept no restraints and decry all morality. Thus, the new “defenders” of marriage will not be happy until the sacred standard of indissoluble marriage is wrenched down and the rainbow flag is hoisted in its place.

They will not be happy until any and all sexual relationships, “genders” and lifestyles are accepted. That is to say, they will never be happy because unbridled sexuality never brings happiness but only frustration, anxiety and disillusionment.

Video: In the Hornet's Nest At Brown University

What we faced today at Brown University, an Ivy League university, had the flavor of a religious persecution. As we peacefully campaigned, about 250 frenzied pro-homosexual students gathered to scream, spit, taunt, insult, assault, and even attempt to destroy our traditional marriage banner. Only with supernatural protection, and a strong police presence, did TFP volunteers manage to complete the campaign without serious injury.

On the front lines for traditional marriage

Situated in the heart of campus, Brown's central quad looked like a good spot to set up our campaign. As we strolled onto campus, the silence was shattered by a long, loud "Nooooooo, not at Brown!" After raising the American flag, TFP Standard and banner on the central quad, dozens of students gathered to take in the sight and snap photos on their cell phones. Also, one could not miss a large rainbow flag hanging from one of the campus buildings nearby. It was like a mini-Berkeley.

Suddenly, a loud thud-rip noise was heard. I looked up and saw a pro-homosexual student literally crashing through our traditional marriage banner, attempting to destroy it. Running at top speed, he flung himself into it and ripped one side loose. Some students watching from a distance approvingly cheered the act of violence. Then two women kissed in front of our banner to the applause of liberal onlookers.

"Why are you here?" many students asked. We politely told them how the TFP was on a state-wide tour defending traditional marriage. They would just stand there in a sort of daze, and repeat the question again: "But why are you here?" Some of them just couldn't believe it.

Soon, two campus police officers asked us to move to the public sidewalk, forty yards away. We promptly complied with their request and continued the campaign on the intersection of Waterman and Brown.

Student: No objection to pedophilia

TFP volunteer Mr. Danniel Pribble debated with one pro-homosexual student, illustrating how the acceptance of homosexual vice leads to the acceptance of pedophilia. In fact, during a recent session in Canadian parliament, experts claimed that pedophilia is a "sexual orientation."

"What moral grounds do you stand on to oppose pedophilia, once you've accepted homosexual behavior?" asked Mr. Pribble. "You're right," answered the student. "I don't have any substantive objection with pedophilia."

More police officers arrived and playfully told Mr. Charles Sulzen, our bagpiper: "You can stay as long as you keep playing the bagpipes..."

Students repeatedly approached our members with the same comment: "You're very brave for coming here." Watching the out-of-control behavior of dozens of pro-homosexual students, a gentleman on the sidewalk remarked: "They want tolerance. But they can swear, spit and scream all they want..."

As Mr. James Bascom distributed pro-family literature, a woman with a rainbow ribbon on her lapel said: "You're being so intolerant!"

"Why don't you tolerate us?" inquired Mr. Bascom. "So tolerance is a one-way street, then?"

"Yes, yes. It is," said the woman. It became amply clear that free speech at Brown University is not free and that the opposition would do everything they could to silence our message of truth: that marriage is between one man, and one woman.

He spat in TFP volunteer's face

Last week, pro-homosexual students held a protest against traditional marriage at the same location where we were now standing. Most of their signs included the word "equality." However, they clearly wanted to impede our right to equally assemble. "...They had their event last week," observed one of the police officers, "so what's wrong with your being here? I am totally with you."

By now, the number of pro-homosexual students increased to about 250. The pitch of their screaming intensified too, and in the chaos, one of our youngest volunteers, Zachariah Long, 17, was spat upon in the face. "What do I do with this on my face?" asked Zachariah. "Get it out of your eyes," said Mr. John Miller. He wiped the spittle off his face, then reported the incident to a police officer standing nearby. "Yea, I can tell," said the policeman. "It looks pretty bad. If you point him out to me right now, I will lock him up immediately." But the aggressor ran away. Patting Zachariah on the shoulder, the officer continued: "Let's file a report. We'll get him."

Approaching Zachariah, one student said: "Can I shake your hand? Because it takes a lot of courage to be out here." Another added: "This is great! But, I'm going to go right now before something happens. Keep up the good fight. Thanks for being here. It takes a lot of guts. It's really brave."

More debates...

Brown student: "Don't take their flier. The Catholic Church is against it."

TFP volunteer: "If you're Catholic, you'd know what the Church teaches. The 10 Commandments didn't change."

Brown: "No! That's outdated. Religion is just for the masses."

TFP: "Well, I guess you agree with Karl Marx."

Brown: "If you talk to Father so and so, he'll tell you that he's in favor of same-sex 'marriage.'"

TFP: "If he does, then he's not faithful to the teachings of the Church."

On the other side of the intersection, Mr. Leo Fitzsimmons, a TFP supporter, explained why marriage is important: "marriage produces children. And there's no future without marriage. Same-sex 'marriage' does not produce children." This simple reality befuddled the student who responded with profanities. "God bless America," responded Mr. Fitszimmons. The young student, who looked like an American, was so upset that she yelled, "I'm not American!"

Police escort to our vans

Seeing the violent attitude of the pro-homosexual students, the police chief wanted to escort us to our van and ensure our safe departure. After completing the 1 hour and 30 minute rally in its entirety, we prayed three Hail Marys, shouted our motto "Tradition Family Property – America" and left. Policemen surrounded us on all sides and were assisted by a patrol vehicle on the street. A rowdy group of approximately 250 pro-homosexual advocates attempted to break through the perimeter to harass us. Without ceasing, they screamed obscenities and yelled in chorus over and over again: "God loves gays!"

I never saw a more frenzied collection of students before.

Thank God, the police protected us as we packed our vans. But when we pulled away from the curb, many pro-homosexual students closed in to hit the sides of our vehicles with their fists or palms. A hard object, maybe a rock, was thrown against one of the vans.

Salve Regina at the feet of Our Lady

The International Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima is visiting churches in Rhode Island, giving us the opportunity to see her on several occasions. After such an intense campaign at Brown University, we were able to pray at her feet once again and sing the Salve Regina. I could think of no better way to end the day.

The International Pilgrim Virgin statue of Our Lady of Fatima

"Are you with TFP Student Action?" asked a lady crossing the church parking lot with small children in tow. "Yes," I answered. "I'm following your tour, watching the videos, seeing what abuses you endure and I truly admire what you are doing. Your valor makes us so happy. And we love the bagpipes.

There may have been 250 people yelling at you today at Brown, but I want you to know that there are many more families like ours supporting you and praying for you. There are a lot of people following behind your tall banner." Gathering her children around her, the lady continued: "These men are real Catholic men. They do what all Catholics should be doing. They are Catholic heroes. They stand on the street corners [for traditional marriage] and endure being spit upon and get things thrown at them. We need to give them our prayers and our thanks."

We thank Our Lady for granting us the grace to defend traditional marriage, certain that her victory predicted at Fatima will be accomplished: "Finally, my Immaculate Heart will triumph!"

Pro-Homosexuals Attempt to Rip TFP Sign in Newport

Five minutes after we began campaigning on the waterfront in Newport, the police arrived and verified that our demonstration for traditional marriage was being conducted, as usual, in an orderly fashion on the public sidewalk. But it didn’t take too long before a group of pro-homosexual individuals arrived, attempting to silence our free speech. They bullied us. They cursed. And they spat at us.

Free speech under attack

The Newport waterfront is lined with small, upscale shops and restaurants and other attractions and a fair amount of people strolled about enjoying the sunny, brisk sea breeze. When the TFP campaign started, the bagpipes attracted a lot of interest. They seemed to make the evening even more enjoyable for the families walking on the sidewalk. But the calmness of the afternoon did not last very long.

A man with a British accent approached, yelling: “Bigots! Haters!” He told TFP volunteers to go home and “get out of town.” It was kind of strange to hear someone with a distinct foreign accent telling corn-fed Americans to go home. A while later, other pro-homosexual agitators spilled out of a restaurant to harass us. One of them physically pushed us, another attempted to rip our traditional marriage sign, and a third screamed and spat at us. Without exception, they all used obscene language and vulgar insults.

Hearing the pro-homosexual advocates hurling invectives, a puzzled pedestrian who was on the fence regarding traditional marriage, asked: “Did they just say what I thought they did?” TFP volunteer Mr. Charles Sulzen replied: “Yes, they did, we get that all the time.” The insults instantly turned the undecided pedestrian into a traditional marriage supporter.

The police arrived and established some order. But even they were harassed by the pro-homosexual advocates who insisted that our freedom of speech be silenced and that we be thrown out of town. It was fairly clear who was bullying who and the police allowed us to remain where we were as long as we wished. In fact, two police officers remained nearby for the duration of the campaign.

Newport, Rhode Island: Campaigning for true marriage.

You can’t be both Catholic and Pro-Homosexual

Two emotionally charged parents stopped to discuss the issue. “We’re good Catholics. Our son is gay and it’s not wrong. You want us to hate our son?” A TFP volunteer explained how one must hate the sin, but love the sinner. “We must hate the sin, love the sinner and pray that your son returns to the path of virtue.”

The parents disagreed: “No. We don’t hate the sin. Our priest told us it’s OK.”
“Catholic teaching is very clear. You cannot be a good Catholic and support homosexual acts,” replied the TFP member. “Homosexuality is like abortion, it’s part of the culture of death.”
“No it’s not. Abortion is a choice,” said the couple and then began cursing as they turned away.

From yells to a handshake

Something unusual happened next. A young lady stopped to debate, using more insults and clichés than reason. When I first saw her, she was practically yelling. After about ten minutes listening to Mr. John Miller, I looked back and saw her shaking his hand in a friendly manner. Her attitude had completely changed. “Well, thank you for talking to me,” she said. “I apologize for what I said earlier. I’m sorry. Now, I’m going to read your flier. Thank you! ”

Please continue to pray for the victory of traditional marriage in Rhode Island, and for the TFP volunteers who are now traveling from city to city, campus to campus, defending God’s law.

God bless you!

Victory for God’s Marriage in Maryland

By the grace of God, a bill that would have legalized same-sex “marriage” in Maryland failed on Friday. Although the fight for traditional marriage is far from over, the bill effectively died in the House of Delegates, lacking the votes needed for passage. The bill’s unexpected defeat stunned pro-homosexual activists.

Before the House proceedings started, TFP volunteers were at the doors of the Maryland State House peacefully demonstrating and praying. It was our ninth day on campaign and the atmosphere was highly charged. Anticipation loomed.

Good and evil: Two worlds apart

On arrival, we found our usual street corner occupied by a group of pro-homosexual activists. They held ambiguous signs with phrases meant to sound “normal” such as “protect all families.” The saddest scene was a baby stroller with two small infants flanked by two women. Over the babies heads was a sign: “Too young to hate.” The media flocked to them and ignored the pro-family supporters.

The police directed us to position ourselves down the street in a more obscure part of the Capitol complex. We complied, and joined a group of traditional marriage supporters chanting “Save marriage! Vote no.”

The honking kept up at a good rate for God’s marriage, although interspersed with a few obscene gestures and hateful screams. After a short while, a group of pro-homosexual individuals tried to take control of our location and push us further down the street, but their attempt earned them a rebuke from the police.

A ranting troublemaker

After a few hours, the homosexual activists abandoned their corner to hear the proceedings inside the State House. At an invitation from the police we moved our campaign to the much more advantageous position left empty by the opposition. At this location the honking drastically increased, but the display of hatred also escalated.

In fact, a pro-homosexual man blocked part of our banner with a sign that read “These people are BIGOTS.” Every other word out of his mouth was foul. When TFP volunteer William Stover asked him why he wanted to impose his viewpoint on others, he menacingly snapped: “I’m going to punch your teeth all the way down your ******* throat.”

A very sweet, motherly lady standing with us was his next target. He verbally insulted her with such obscene violence that she began weeping. Finally, a policeman escorted him away.

We fought the good fight and the Blessed Mother won

Soon, we received the first indication of victory. Pro-traditional marriage delegates approached the street corner with the joyful news that the bill had been sent back to committee and was therefore dead, for this year at least. We were also told that a number of junior Maryland delegates received tremendous pressure to favor the homosexual agenda, including personal phone calls from Dick Cheney and Hillary Clinton to legalize same-sex “marriage.”

After receiving many expressions of gratitude from traditional marriage supporters and delegates, we packed up the campaign, and departed, grateful for this great victory, which was won only with God’s grace, through the maternal intersession of Our Lady.

• TFP Rally Disrupted by Pro-Homosexual Blasphemers Yelling "God is Dead"

In Frederick for God's Marriage

Written by John Ritchie

This morning, in the bitter cold, we campaigned at two locations in Frederick – downtown and on Rt. 40 near Giant. Pedestrian traffic downtown gave us the opportunity to distribute 10 Reasons Why Homosexual “Marriage” is Harmful and Must be Opposed fliers and have some face-to-face discussions.



Few people are undecided on the issue. They either love or hate the campaign. And the reactions are instantaneous. There’s no hesitation.

A young U.S. Marine rolled his car window down and said: “The U.S. Military agrees with you. We’re against homosexuality too. Semper Fi!” Moments later, a pro-homosexual woman crossing the intersection spit at us. Luckily, the spittle did not land on anyone.

After lunch, the caravan stopped in Germantown for another campaign. Here, at a busy intersection, the HPM (honks per minute) were excellent.

Please continue to pray for the victory of traditional marriage in Maryland. And pray for us as we travel from city to city.



Help us stay on the road

To help us stay on the road for traditional marriage, please consider filling our gas tank. With an intense travel schedule, our fifteen passenger van consumes about one tank of gasoline per day. Your gift of $79.00 will keep us going for 330 miles.

Sponsor 1 Tank (330 miles) = $79
Sponsor 2 Tanks (660 miles) = $158
Sponsor 3 Tanks (990 miles) = $237

If you want to contact us on the tour, please call 717-495-5427. God bless you.

The Gazette published a story on the campaign:

http://www.gazette.net/stories/03072011/frednew131927_32556.php