The Bishops of Malta and Gozo said today that the divorce referendum is actually a referendum on marriage.

"The teachings of Jesus Christ, expressed through the moral law of the Church, leave no doubt that divorce is the wrong solution – a solution upon which a stable society cannot be built," the bishops said in a pastoral letter being read in all churches this weekend.

"The Christian must always act with reference to our Lord Jesus Christ and his teachings. In taking his decision on how to vote, he must bear in mind that he shall be accountable to Jesus for his choice," Archbishop Paul Cremona and Bishops Mario Grech and Annetto Depasquale said.

"Our choice in the referendum demands much reflection because it carries a great responsibility. It is a decision which will affect not only the present, but also the future. By his vote, the citizen will either build or destroy. A choice in favour of permanent marriage is an act of faith in the family, built upon a bond of love which cannot be severed; whereas a choice in favour of divorce leads to the further destruction of marriage and the family and, as a consequence, the destruction of values and the quality of life. We all shoulder the responsibility for the consequences of our decision."

The bishops also insisted that it is everyone's duty to vote on Saturday.

"We cannot remain indifferent. The referendum deals with a very important matter and any person who may decide not to participate will show a lack of civil and religious maturity."

The bishops underlined the importance of marriage and the family for society. In Malta, they said, there was consensus on the need to invest further so that these may be strengthened.

They said they felt the cries of pain of those whose marriage had failed.

"At the same time, one must acknowledge that when these separated persons speak about their experience, they admit that they feel extremely saddened that their marriage has failed. These people, who are wounded and hurt, show us that, as a nation, we should continue to cherish true marriage. As a gesture of love towards those who are suffering, and towards future generations, we must together try and improve the conditions of marriage and the family in order that these hurts may be diminished."

The full text of the pastoral letter can be found by clicking on the pdf below.

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