Sixteen states have already passed laws denying recognition of same-sex marriages. The Dutch government plans to give same-sex couples almost identical rights as married people. The Dutch Justice Ministry says a proposed new law will allow gay and lesbian couples to register their relationship with their local municipality. The registration is legally binding. But, gay couples will still not be allowed to adopt children.
Activists say they'll fight for that right as well.
PA Episcopal Diocese Will Bless Gay Unions Pennsylvania's Episcopal Diocese has voted to create a blessing for same-sex unions. At a recent diocesan convention in Philadelphia, clergy and lay leaders voted to create rites for blessing committed gay and lesbian relationships. The blessing would have no legal standing after the state legislature voted earlier this year to ban same-sex marriages. West Virginia Gets New Gay Church Gays and lesbians in Charleston, West Virginia now have a new church to call home. The Appalachian Metropolitan Community Church is one of 300 congregations worldwide affiliated with the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches.