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

"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
When ‘my truth’ replaces the truth
When ‘my truth’ replaces the truth

We live in changing times, where feelings about how we “identify” now hold more authority than facts.

Christian pro-life volunteer denies five fresh charges in abortion buffer zone case
Christian pro-life volunteer denies five fresh charges in abortion buffer zone case

A Christian charity volunteer has pleaded not guilty to five charges of breaching an abortion clinic buffer zone in Birmingham, as her lawyers challenge whether the prosecution should proceed.

Can we really think ourselves happy?
Can we really think ourselves happy?

There is growing evidence that people living with neglected tropical diseases, including leprosy, experience significantly higher rates of depression and anxiety, with discrimination and social exclusion among the factors contributing to this burden.

Proposed SNP conversion therapy ban could 'weaken trust' within the home
Proposed SNP conversion therapy ban could 'weaken trust' within the home

Parents and pastors may be required by law to affirm only one view.