No PASTOR/CLERGY should be forced to marry a same-sex couple.  Freedom of Religion is a sacred right in this nation.  We are asking lawmakers to help secure this right for ordained Clergy, Priests, Rabbi, Pastors and other Religious Leaders in the state of North Carolina.  Protecting them so they may freely have the right to deny services in the area of solemnizing marriage and the use of Religious facilities when this is a conflict for their deep convictions and Religious beliefs. No Pastor/Clergy should be forced to perform or recognize a marriage that contradicts his or her sincere religious beliefs.  This is a necessary step to keep this out of the reach of government or coercion by the courts.  In the face of an ever extending arm of violence against religious leaders, we must show that all people have rights to expressing freedom of religion, including those who teach, preach, and lead in this arena.  Several states have already made action to protect their ministers and we ask for support for the same here in North Carolina.