Virginia Pastors Release Open Letter Opposing Proposed Constitutional Amendments on Abortion and Marriage

Pastors from multiple churches in Virginia have issued an open letter addressed to the Commonwealth expressing concern over two proposed amendments to the Virginia Constitution. The document addresses an ongoing vote scheduled from September 18 through November 3 and urges voters to reject both measures. The letter outlines positions rooted in the signatories' interpretation of biblical texts regarding human life and the institution of marriage.

The first section of the letter focuses on Amendment 1 and argues that it would result in greater destruction of human life in the womb. Authors reference the belief that all human life holds sacred value as created in God's image according to Genesis 1:27. They describe abortion as the killing of a pre-born child and caution against framing it as healthcare or a fundamental right.

The letter calls on mothers considering abortion to choose life and emphasizes the role of medical professionals in protecting vulnerable individuals. It states that human life should not be devalued based on factors such as size development environment or dependency. Voters are advised to reject the amendment to avoid constitutional protection for the destruction of innocent life.

On Amendment 2 the letter maintains that God creates each person as male or female with gender tied to biological sex. Marriage receives definition solely as the union of one man and one woman as presented in Scripture with reference to teachings from Jesus in Matthew 19:6. The authors describe redefinition of these concepts as contrary to divine design and potentially harmful to individuals and society.

The document affirms that every person merits love kindness respect dignity and compassion while rejecting hateful or harassing conduct. It notes that truth originates from God and that love involves communicating such truth. Redemption and restoration through Jesus Christ are presented as available to those who confess sin and seek forgiveness.

Multiple initial signatories are listed including leaders from churches in Manassas Woodbridge Chantilly Springfield Gainesville Henrico Dumfries Warrenton Arlington Alexandria Fort Valley Chesterfield South Boston Virginia Beach Richmond and Lynchburg. Additional signatories have been added over time with a process for further pastors to participate if they affirm specific creeds and Reformation principles.

The letter encourages sharing the message with congregations and suggests it could be submitted as an op-ed to local news organizations. A PDF version is referenced for distribution. The overall message seeks the good of Virginia through prayer and informed voting decisions.

https://virginiapastors.org/

Alexandria is an independent city in Northern Virginia.

Lynchburg is an independent city in Central Virginia.

Richmond is an independent city in the Richmond region.

Virginia Beach is an independent city in Hampton Roads.