Friday’s historic ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States in favor of the legalization of same-sex marriage nationwide caused a stir around the world and here in Vicksburg.

Clergy members from around town shared their reaction to the ruling and what they believe it means for the country.

“The ruling really does not affect us directly in any way as Christians,” Rev. R.D. Bernard of King Solomon Baptist Church said.

He said it would not change the obligations and responsibilities of Christians, because they are under the authority of scripture. The ruling did not surprise him, however, he did find how close the 5-4 ruling was to be a surprise.

He compared Friday’s ruling to when prayer was taken out of public schools saying that ruling “didn’t change the Christian’s obligation to pray.”

He said Christians are not for discrimination, and they don’t hate people in same-sex relationships or anyone involved in sexually immoral practices.

Father P.J. Curley, with St. Michael Catholic Church, said he had been thinking about the ruling that day. He thought it would be great if everyone had the mind and heart of Pope Francis when he said, “who am I to judge?” Curley also said people could look to God’s example.

“If we could have the mind and heart of our God, who created every single one of us in his image and in his likeness, the Bible says, now if we are to think like that, these questions would never come up,” Curley said.

“Concerned” is the word pastor Bill Talbert of Solid Rock Church used to describe his reaction to the ruling. He quoted Psalm 11:3 “When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?”

Talbert believes Christians make up the majority of the population, and he is worried that a small minority can cause “an avalanche of popular acceptance.” He said the nation was founded on the principle of majority rule.

“It’s really concerning the direction that our country is going,” Talbert said.

Because America is a free country, he said the gay community could do what they want and make their own choices. More than same-sex marriage itself, Talbert said he is upset about the institution being forced on the nation through legislation and in schools.

“It should be their own choice, but the fact that they’re pushing their agenda so forcefully upon the whole nation is a bit of a concerning fact,” Talbert said.

He is going to accept the ruling because federal law mandates it and there is no other option, but his solution to “the foundations being destroyed” is to not change his values.

“We need to continue doing what’s right in spite of whatever else is wrong,” Talbert said.