Ohio judge refuses to marry gay couple over 'Christian beliefs'

theGRIO REPORT - Ohio Municipal Court Judge C. Allen McConnell refused to perform a marriage Monday for 51-year-old Carolyn Wilson and her partner on the grounds of his "personal and Christian beliefs."

Luther Vandross was outed as gay after his death.

Ohio Municipal Court Judge C. Allen McConnell refused to perform a marriage Monday for 51-year-old Carolyn Wilson and her partner on the grounds of his “personal and Christian beliefs.”

The two women were eventually able to get married by another judge after a short delay but felt that the delay was “embarrassing.”

“If he would have taken the time to talk to us, it would have been a little more palatable,” Wilson told Toledo News Now, noting that the judge would not even speak to them about the issue.

On Wednesday, McConnell released a statement explaining his refusal to perform “non-traditional” marriages.

On Monday, July 6, I declined to marry a non-traditional couple during my duties assignment. The declination was based upon my personal and Christian beliefs established over many years. I apologize to the couple for the delay they experienced and wish them the best. The court has implemented a process whereby same sex marriages will be accommodated. I will continue to perform traditional marriages during my duties assignment. I am also seeking advisory opinion from the Supreme Court of Ohio at this time as to whether or not I can opt out of the rotation,” he continued. “Upon receipt of the advisory opinion from Supreme Court, I will abide by its decision.

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