New Papal Gay Marriage Attack
by The Associated Press


(Vatican City) Pope John Paul II warned against attempts to tamper with what he called "the irreplaceable" institution of marriage-based family, saying Saturday that such efforts would deeply wound society.

John Paul has been an outspoken opponent of gay marriage.

His speech to participants in a meeting of the Vatican's council on family matters did not mention any specific issues.

But it appeared to refer to moves by some countries and cities to recognize same-sex marriage and to grant social benefits deriving from marriage — such as inheritance or pensions — to cohabiting couples who are not married.