[Episcopal Diocese of Washington] Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington released the following statement on the Supreme Court rulings announced today on the Defense of Marriage Act and the state of California’s constitutional provision banning same-sex marriage:

Scripture teaches us that God shows no partiality. Today our country has moved closer to this vision of equality and unity, and I give thanks for our progress. Now, as always, the ability to create a more just and caring country lies with us. Heartened by today’s decisions, may we recommit ourselves to this difficult but holy work.