Augustana to allow same-sex weddings

Augustana College in Rock Island will now allow same-sex weddings and "blessings of unions" on campus. President Steven Bahls emailed faculty, staff and students of his decision to allow same-gender ceremonies after a recommendation from campus chaplain Richard Priggie.  The school is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, which leaves decisions to hold same-sex ceremonies up to individual congregations...and in this case...a college president. Illinois Public Radio's Jenna Dooley spoke with Chaplain Priggie about the decision:

 
TAG: That was Jenna Dooley speaking with Augustana College chaplain Richard Priggie. Illinois began allowing civil unions in 2011. The state currently does not allow same-sex marriage. However, couples in Illinois can hold ceremonies including "rites of marriage" or "blessings of unions" by a pastor.