Conservative synagogue performs same-sex marriage
A gay couple in Winnipeg ties the knot in what is believed to be a first in Canada: a same-sex marriage performed at a conservative synagogue.
The Shaarey Zedek synagogue is one of the oldest in Western Canada and is known for its strong ties to tradition.
Arthur Blankstein told CBC News Friday, on the eve of his ceremony, that while the event will be historic it will also be like any other wedding ceremony.
"There's nothing like being in a room full of family and friends and declaring to everybody that you love another person and that's the person you want to live with," Blankstein said.
The couple were married in a civil ceremony eight years ago and are looking forward to a religious ceremony.
"I'm pleased that we are making history. Because somebody has to do it," Blankstein added. "I'm going to have the same apprehension I had eight years ago as to whether I'm doing the right thing. But I'm also going to have the same joy."
Orthodox synagogues do not acknowledge gay marriage. Reform synagogues endorse it and conservative synagogues like Shaarey Zedek fall in the middle.
Executive director Ian Staniloff said attitudes are changing, especially towards the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered (GLBT) community.
"We wanted to display to our GLBT members, and we would be naive to think we wouldn't have any, that this is a warm welcoming affirming community," Staniloff said.
