A federal judge in San Antonio has declared Texas' ban on gay marriage unconstitutional.
U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia, however, also issued a stay, meaning the ban stays in effect for the time being.
One lesbian couple had to go to Massachusetts to get married, and they want Texas to recognize the union.
A second gay couple have a courtship of 17 years and want to get married here in their home state.
Both sued the state in federal court aiming to overturn the ban on same-sex marriage, saying it is unconstitutional.
Granted, any Texas decision would go to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, which is probably not going to be the most open minded group of individuals. But that's seven federal judges in a row to rule in favor of equality since last June's Supreme Court decision striking down parts of DOMA.
Also, Texas. Pretty large state, pretty large number of people potentially affected by this ruling. It's still going to the Supreme Court, but every ruling in favor of equality puts more and more pressure on SCOTUS. But if banning same-sex marriage is losing in Texas, it's only a matter of time before it's legal across the land, and I'm pretty sure both sides know it.
Move the church schedule to those two Saturdays that are left. The election is far enough away (I'm writing in late Feb 2014) so that this can be publicized and as many people as possible can adjust their schedules.
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