The Bishops of Malta and Gozo in their first reaction to a Bill on same-sex partnerships said today that MPs should continue to take measures that strengthen the family built upon marriage between a man and a woman.

“Considering that the family constituted by the unit in the difference between a man and a woman remains the first and principle builder of society, we encourage all those who are convinced of this truth to treasure the family and continue expressing their high regard towards this natural institution,” the bishops said.

They also noted that the new law will give partners in a civil union the right to adopt children.

This, they said, was a very delicate issue, as was every issue which involved the child’s best interest.

Since there were many contrasting views on the issue, the Bishops said it would be wise if the legislators took the necessary time to take the right decisions.

“Children should preferably be brought up by their parents, a man and a woman,” they said.

The Bishop said they trusted that in their debate in Parliament, MPs would do their best to show respect to the persons affected by this legislation and at the same time consider the common good.

See the full text of the statement by clicking the pdf below.