Albany, NY Episcopal Bishop Bans Local Same-Sex Marriages

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — The bishop of the Albany, New York Episcopal Diocese has issued a directive banning same-sex marriages in the diocese, saying that the church has been "hijacked by the 'Gay Rights Agenda.'"

The Rev. William Love says that scripture describes same-sex relationships as "sinful." He also says that "Satan is having a heyday bringing division into the church."

His directive Saturday comes three weeks before a resolution that allows same-sex marriages in Episcopal churches nationwide goes into effect.

The Times Union says some parishioners gathered outside St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Albany on Sunday to ceremonially burn Love's letter announcing the directive.

Brunswick resident Richard Fay says he won't completely reject the Episcopal Church, but he is second-guessing going to one in the Albany Diocese.