New York Irish bar defies local opposition to host gay wedding celebrations

yes, thanks to all the commentators here and Molly's for supporting our gay neighbors and friends. It is 4pm here Dec 31 = a happy new year to all , gay str8 bi trangender etc.

Yes there are many good catholics. They are simply absent for all practical purposes in the hierarchy. BTW if a priest goes against the vatican or his bosses, he can be excommunicated, or simply fired from his job.............And also lose his pension rights..................the Terrorization is everywhere. This from a former nun who married a former priest, both to get away from the lies, hypocrisy and yes hatred in the church.

If ye be Irish American was your Irish sense of humour lost in transit? Deleted my comments because you perceive me as anti gay? Get a grip please. I could'nt care less and I certainly don't discriminate against them. Lighten up Francis.

I ever make it to N.Y. I will be sure to visit Molly Blooms

In the United States of America we have this piece of paper that guarantees EVERYONE'S right to practice their own religion. That means that the hardware owner has every right to believe as he does and the police office has a right to his beliefs. It does not mean that anyone has ANY say in what anyone else believes, says or does within the law. Other people do not have to stop exercising their right to seek happiness just because someone might find watching it distasteful. As my high school civics teacher said "In America, one man's rights end when they deny the rights of another man." Everyone wants the right to their own religion but so many are so quick here to deny that right to those of other religions and those of no religion. A hearty Slainte to Mr. Staunton for exercising the true spirit of '76 and Best Wishes to all those who commit themselves to loving another person. And to those who hide their own prejudice behind being a "christian" and a church's official "sins," I suggest that they reread their New Testament with closer attention to the way in which Christ taught us to love our neighbors especially the part about throwing stones. If you believe something is a "sin," do not do it but you have no right to hold it against someone who does not share your beliefs. Remember that it was those who claimed to know God's Word that sent Him to the cross.

“I am worried about what kind of message gay marriage is sending.” Yes, the message of two adults in a committed relationship, striving for the same rights that are routinely abused by opposite sex couples is definitely something you don't want children to see.

I WISH I could support the pub! I'm way south, so I can't but I admire the courage, appreciate the support of the community. Didn't care much for the "reminder" of what Islam thinks. My take on the former police officer's comment "Go back to your home country if you're so against it!!!" Killing innocent people is a sin too - as in 9/ll Mr. Turkey immigrant... AND I'D NEVER BUY THE FIRST PENNY NAIL FROM THE KOREAN hardware store and mark my words, Mr. I'mgonnahidemychildren, you will see what people think of boycottsw... Kudos to the pub and as a straight person, I agree its a civil issue!

Don't like it, don't go there. I'm sure there are other bars in Queens. I applaud Staunton for standing up for what he believes is right and not allowing himself to be bullied into discrimination because of local opposition. @antoman, only you would think about horses' junk. Maybe they were mares. :)

When I saw the initial story before I opened the link I knew it would be Ciaran.I haven't seen him in a while but I know he has always been committed to the right of people to exercise their civil rights whether it be Ireland or America.

I'm only sorry that I live in Chicago rather than Sunnyside. Otherwise, I'd be sure to make Molly Bloom's my local. As an American, I pledge to "liberty and justice for all," not just those conservatives and bigots consider socially acceptable. I believe in democracy, not theocracy.

More power to Staunton, his generosity, and may the couple have a long and happy life together.