Spokane’s Catholic bishop is urging members of his diocese to vote against the same-sex marriage law that will appear on the Nov. 6 ballot. In a letter to parishioners available at weekend services, the Rev. Blase Cupich, pictured, contends that if Referendum 74 passes, it will redefine marriage and create “a major shift in an institution that serves as the foundation stone of society.” He called same-sex marriage a passionate issue and called for respectful debate that would “generate light rather than heat.” Zach Silk, campaign manager for the pro-referendum group Washington United for Marriage, said Cupich’s letter comes as no surprise because the U.S. Council of Catholic Bishops has a long-standing opposition to same-sex marriage. Seattle Archbishop J. Peter Sartain urged Catholics in that archdiocese to sign the petitions to put Referendum 74 on the ballot, Silk noted/Jim Camden, SR. More here. (Photo: Catholic Diocese of Spokane)

Question: How much influence does a religious leader like Rev. Cupich have on controversial political issues like this?