In the Ref re Same Sex Marriage case, what distinction was made regarding officials performing marriage ceremonies?

In the Ref re Same Sex Marriage case, the distinction made is that religious officials have the right to choose whether or not they will perform marriage ceremonies for same-sex couples based on their beliefs. This recognition acknowledges the autonomy of religious institutions to make decisions aligned with their doctrinal teachings. The Supreme Court of Canada emphasized the importance of balancing the rights of same-sex couples to marry with the freedom of religion, thus allowing individual religious officials to deny performing ceremonies if it contradicts their faith.

This nuanced approach differentiates between civil marriage, which is mandated by law to be inclusive, and religious marriage, which can involve personal beliefs and practices. Consequently, while civil officials are required by law to perform marriages for same-sex couples, religious officials have the discretion to refuse based on their religious convictions. This reflects a broader commitment to uphold both equality principles and religious freedoms within the Canadian legal framework.