Cleveland Bishop Richard Lennon among those opposing Marijuana monopoly
Citing the teachings of the Catholic Church, Cleveland Catholic Bishop, Richard Lennon joined the Bishops from the other five dioceses of Ohio in opposing the statewide ballot initiative that would legalize the production and sale of marijuana in Ohio.
The bishops are asking Ohioans to vote ?NO? on State Issue 3.
Bishop Lennon and his fellow bishops cited The Catechism of the Catholic Church which warns that non-therapeutic use of drugs inflicts very grave damage on human health and life (#2291). Practicing the virtue of temperance disposes one to avoid every kind of excess, including drunkenness and substance abuse. Bishop Lennon added, ?The Catechism teaches us life and physical health are precious gifts entrusted to us by God. We must take reasonable care of them, taking into account the needs of others and the common good.? (#2288)
The bishops also believe the scope of Issue 3 is not well-conceived and its scope is overly broad. If marijuana is to be used for medicinal purposes, then laws can be written to legalize its use by prescription, not within a constitutional amendment.
Media Contact: Robert Tayek, Diocese of Cleveland Communications Department:
216-696-6525 ext. 4460 or rtayek@dioceseofcleveland.org
October 7, 2015
