Prominent official involved same sex marriage controversy

Rick Estridge, the Vice-President for overseas finance of Catholic Relief Services (CRS), a charity organisation owned by the Catholic church, has resigned.

He resigned from the organisation because he got married to his same sex partner.

Sources say he was put under pressure to resign, by a conservative Roman Catholic organisation known as Lepanto Institute, so he did.

The official statement released by the spokesperson of the Catholic charity organisation, said "He entered into a same-sex civil marriage two years ago when doing so became legal in Maryland. Because of the stress this situation has caused Mr. Estridge and his family, he has made the decision to leave CRS. CRS respects Mr. Estridge¹s decision and thanks him for his service. He has done a tremendous job during his years at CRS and will be missed. We are grateful that he has agreed to be available as needed for consultation to ensure a smooth transition."

Speaking on the matter, embattled Estridge said 'This is the right decision for me, and I thank CRS' leadership for providing me with the space to make this determination during this difficult time. I continue to have full faith in CRS' leadership and the organisation as a whole. I thank my team and the global finance community for their hard work and dedication and have every belief that they will continue to serve with excellence.'