Why can't Gays be married in the Church?

[Granny_Glo]

Please give me scripture readings and advice on why the Catholic church does not permit Gays marrying in the church. If God loves everyone and creates everyone in his image why does the church not agree to marry them?

Thank you and God bless,

 

[Devon_Caffran]

These links should be helpful for understanding the compassionate and balanced approach Catholicism has to those with same-sex attractions, and how that approach is applied in the issue of homosexual unions. If you have any further questions or concerns that are not answered by these links, please contact Catholic Answers directly.

Recommended Reading:
Special Report: Gay Marriage

Catechism of the Catholic Church on Homosexuality
Early Teachings on Homosexuality
Considerations Regarding Proposals to Give Legal Recognition to Unions Between Homosexual Persons by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith

Out of the Closet and Into Chastity by David C. Morrison
“Gay Marriage”: The Central Issue by Jimmy Akin
Homosexuality by Jim Blackburn
Does the Catholic Church Condemn Homosexuals? By Kenneth J. Howell

COURAGE Chapter Forming Online to Help Homosexuals Lead Chaste and Holy Lives