The issue of faith and values plays very strongly on voters minds in Maine as they consider support for the state’s marriage equality law at the ballot box on November 4. The Maine Sunday Telegram finds active relgious leaders who see religion, scripture and their faith as a reason why to support the freedom to marry.

There is a “strong movement in every religious tradition to rethink family, gender and sexuality,” said the Rev. Dr. Marvin Ellison, a Presbyterian minister and head of the Religious Coalition for the Freedom to Marry.

“Religion is going to be a factor — every religious tradition is concerned about the well-being of persons and the character of our community,” he continued. “Many of us who are deeply religious believe the best way to support all families is to make available the rights and protections all families and all couples deserve.”

[Rabbi Carolyn] Braun [of Temple Beth El in Portland], the rabbi, said that for her, the issue boils down to the concept that God made humans in his image. That’s where she plans to center her sermon for Rosh Hashana, she said.

“God wouldn’t create a being that’s no good; I believe that our sexuality is really part of who we are,” said Braun.

Click here to learn more about what faith leaders are doing to support marriage equality in Maine.