Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Chicago (Agenzia Fides) - Representatives of three Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Illinois (Springfield, Peoria and Joliet) have filed a lawsuit against the state, at the court of Sangamon County, following the enactment of the law on civil unions on June 1, which sets conditions for adoptions and promotes services to children. The "State of Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Unions Act", became law on June 1, 2011, and does not allow the agencies concerned with the welfare of children to limit their adoption and encourage heterosexual married couples, even where these agencies interact with religious groups. Rather than violate the teachings of the Catholic Church, the three dioceses, along with that of Rockford which has not sued the state, have chosen to suspend all adoptions funded by the state and promote supported accommodation.
"The proponents of the welfare of children know that it is in the best interests of children in Illinois that the Catholic organization is involved in this program", said the head of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Springfield in a statement released by the Catholic News Agency. "It is absurd to accepting the fact of needlessly destroying the lives of thousands of vulnerable children", he added.
The attorneys of the Thomas More Society, however, have stated that the Illinois Human Rights Act exempts religious agencies involved in adoptions in the law on civil unions and married couples who are civilly free to choose among so many other organizations. Catholic Charities have been assisting thousands of children and families since 1921 and manages about 20% of adoptions and aid services to children of Illinois. "Religious institutions should not consider membership status when it comes to helping children and families in need in the country", said Tom Brejcha of the Thomas More Society. Catholic Charities have the full right to continue their dedicated commitment to the spirit of the Gospel, while remaining faithful to the principles of the Catholic faith. We will continue to protect the Catholic Charities social service in their mission". (AP) (Agenzia Fides 11/06/2011)
