WILLEMSTAD - The Diocese of Willemstad maintains its position that marriage is solely for heterosexual couples, according to a statement by Bishop Luis Secco following the Supreme Court's decision. Since last Friday, same-sex marriage has been legal in Aruba and Curaçao, which the church views as contrary to its principles. According to the Catholic Church, marriage is intended for procreation and the upbringing of offspring. The church believes that God, not the state, instituted marriage. Nonetheless, Secco emphasized that everyone in the world, regardless of sexual orientation, is made in God's image and deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. 

The diocese acknowledges that the ruling has stirred many emotions within the community. To maintain peace, Secco urges all believers to engage in dialogue and listen to others with an open heart.