Evangelicals say religious freedom must be protected after Switzerland backs same-sex marriage

 (Photo: Unsplash/Yannis Papanastasopoulos)

"The freedom of churches must be protected," the Swiss Evangelical Alliance has said after same-sex marriage received overwhelming public support in a referendum. 

Nearly two thirds of Swiss (64.1%) backed the 'Marriage for All' proposal in the nationwide referendum. 

Gay couples have already been able to enter into civil partnerships since 2007. 

Although the proposals have now passed the referendum, it could be several months before the change comes into effect.

Commenting on the result, the Swiss Evangelical Alliance said 'Marriage for All' went "too far" and "places too little weight on the rights of children". 

"The wishes of adults have triumphed over the rights of children," it said. 

It voiced further concerns about the development of further legislation in the future to permit egg donation and surrogacy.

"An extremely dubious instrumentalization of the human body was not given enough consideration," it said. 

The Swiss EA has vowed to stand up for the religious freedom of pastors and churches following the vote.

It said churches must be free to wed only heterosexual couples.

"The Swiss Evangelical Alliance will continue to campaign for freedom of religion and freedom of conscience with regard to church weddings," it said. 

News
Nigerian Christians 'under siege' from constant attacks
Nigerian Christians 'under siege' from constant attacks

Mervyn Thomas said the US was right to redesignate Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” after an "unprecedented rise in insecurity".

Workshops attempt to eliminate endemic domestic violence in Egypt
Workshops attempt to eliminate endemic domestic violence in Egypt

One victim was told domestic violence was her cross to bear.

What is the significance of Thanksgiving for Christians?
What is the significance of Thanksgiving for Christians?

Every fourth Thursday of November, Americans mark Thanksgiving. American Thanksgiving is a relatively modern tradition, but the principle behind it has a long biblical basis and liturgical history. This is the story …