A US marriage clerk who was jailed for refusing to issue gay marriage licences has given thanks to God for her release.
Kim Davis, from Rowan County, Kentucky, has refused to issue marriage licences since marriage was redefined in law by the US Supreme Court in June, stating that her Christian beliefs cannot allow her to do so.
The Supreme Court recently rejected her argument and, after continuing to make a stand, she was jailed for contempt of court.
Personal attack
Mrs Davis, an elected official, was released on Tuesday on the condition that she does not interfere with her deputies as they issue licences.
After the Supreme Court dismissed her religious objection, Davis was the victim of verbal abuse by gay activists who demanded that she perform a U-turn.
Reporters accompanied one gay couple to Davis’ office where they made a personal attack on her.
Conversion
Her opponents have highlighted that she has been married four times.
The clerk came to faith around five years ago, following the death of her mother-in-law, and before she took up office.
Prior to her conversion she had been divorced three times which her opponents have been quick to use to try and undermine her.
When asked under whose authority she was continuing to deny same-sex marriage licences. She said: “Under God’s authority”. She maintains that she holds no ill will against gay people.
Give God the glory
After being released from jail on Tuesday, she addressed thousands of supporters:
“I just want to give God the glory. His people have rallied, and you are a strong people. We serve a living God who knows exactly where each and every one of us is at.”
Davis is due to return to work in the next week.