TORONTO, May 12, 2005 – A rally to defend marriage will be held at the provincial legislature at Queen’s Park Monday, May 23 from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Speakers will include Bishop Pearse Lacey, retired bishop of Toronto.

The rally, called “It Is Time to Draw the Line”, is being organized by Equipping Christians for the Public Square Centre (ECP), and supported by the Defend Marriage partners (Campaign Life Coalition, Canada Family Action Coalition, Catholic Civil Rights League and REAL Women of Canada), the Knights of Columbus, March4Marriage and the Jubilee Centre for Christian Social Action

“We are honoured to have his Excellency, Bishop Lacey, attend and speak at this rally,” said ECP Centre executive director Rev. Tristan Emmanuel. “Catholic Bishops are providing leadership across Canada. Bishop Pearce Lacy and Bishop Fred Henry of Calgary represent the type of moral clarity and leadership that is so needed today. That is why we are delighted to have him, and all Catholics, join us in this monumental rally,” said Rev. Emmanuel.

“It is important that we draw the line. We want Dalton McGuinty and Paul Martin to know that the large majority of Ontarians – and Canadians – will not rest until they (or another government) do the right thing and defend the only true definition of marriage, one man and one woman.” said Rev. Emmanuel.

For more information on the rally and how you can participate and support the event, please visit the website: www.tristanemmanuel.com.