State news briefs: Feb 2010

Gay-friendly Catholic group invites controversy
A former nun has ordained two women priests and one deacon in Sarasota. The practice is part of a growing and controversial movement claiming to be an offshoot of the Catholic church. The Roman Catholic ‘womenpriests’ movement was born in 2002 in Europe, where a bishop broke Catholic law and ordained seven women. The ordinations were the first in Florida by the group.

Equality Florida launches Council of 1000
Equality Florida is assembling a team of donors focused on supporting candidates who will fight for the LGBT community. Council of 1000 members have committed to donating $1,000 to those candidates’ campaigns. In return, they will receive analysis of key races across the state, invitations to briefing calls where candidates can be questioned, and invitations to candidate events. To join, visit eqfl.org/1000strong.