The Manhattan Declaration

Before I go any further in developing the theological argument for traditional marriage, I want to introduce the Manhattan Declaration.  This short document written last year draws a line in the sand.  I will use a lot of information from this document, therefore this post is dedicated to introducing it!

The Manhattan Declaration is the work of one hundred fifty prominent Christian clergy, ministry leaders and scholars who had growing concerns regarding life, marriage, and freedom of religion.  It was released at a press conference in Washington, D.C. on November 20, 2009.  The signers include

• 15 Archbishops and 30 Bishops including Rodi of Mobile, Rigali of Philadelphia, Wuerl of D.C., Chaput of Denver and Dolan of New York
• Dr. Peter Kreeft
• Maggie Gallagher (president) and Brian Brown (director) of the National Organization of Marriage (NOM)
• Jim Daily (President and CEO) and Dr. James Dobson (founder) of Focus on the Family
• Chuck Colson and Kay Authur
• Father Fessio of Ignatius Press
• Thomas Gilson- director of Campus Crusades for Christ
• and more!

They write:

It is important to understand that the Manhattan Declaration is a call of Christian Conscience.  It speaks to the church just as much as it speaks to the larger culture.  In fact it is a clarion call to the church to take a stand on three vital issues: the sanctity of life, the dignity of marriage as the union of one man and one woman, and religious liberty.  (Manhattan Declaration, emphasis mine)

Why must we take a stand? 

Psalm 78:1-8 speaks of the heritage we must leave our children.  We must keep the commandments of God so that we can teach them to our children so that they may know and worship the Lord.  We have been given a legacy, and we must protect it for future generations.

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."  Hebrews 12:1-2

More next week from this amazing document!