Fordham University has fully endorsed the marriage of J. Patrick Hornbeck II, professor and chair of the theology department, to his partner Patrick Bergquist, director of children, youth and family ministries at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church. The wedding took place on June 27th at St. Bartholomew’s.

In a statement, Robert Howe, senior director of communications, said “same-sex unions are now the law of the land, and Professor Hornbeck has the same constitutional right to marriage as all Americans.”

Howe made it clear Fordham’s religious identity is not the important factor in Fordham’s decision to support Hornbeck’s marriage. “Professor Hornbeck is a member of the Fordham community, and like all University employees, students and alumni, is entitled to human dignity without regard to race, creed, gender, and sexual orientation.”

In late 2014, Hornbeck had discussed the issues facing LGBTQ Catholics in a Fordham-sponsored “Faith on Tap” event.