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WASHINGTON - More than 100 pastors and faith leaders voiced their support for same-sex marriage in D.C., standing in stark contrast to protests a month earlier by other pastors.

The pastors, mostly from African American churches, wanted a referendum reversing the D.C. council vote recognizing same-sex unions from other states. The latest protest, pastors from a range of denomination, support same sex marriage and say civil rights should not be put to a vote.

"God is love and love is for everyone," said Rev. Dennis and Christine Wiley, Covenant Baptist Church.

At Ward 8 inside Covenant Baptist Church, dozens of clergy members united. "We come to you this day asking for your blessing on our endeavors," said Mari Castellanos.

From baptists to unitarians all across the District, they are showing their support for same-sex marriage. "And we are glad to be the miracle on South Capitol Street and we want the world to know about it," said Wiley.

Their support is in response to similar events held by those who oppose same-sex marriage. "Not on our watch. Marriage must be between a man and a woman," said Bishop Harry Jackson.

Jackson, of Hope Christian Church in Beltsville, Md., is most outspoken. "I'd rather be biblically courageous than politically correct."

Now, faith leaders are criticizing Jackson and D.C. council member Marion Barry for describing the debate over marriage as a 'civil war.' "And I believe it is wrong to use the language of war to talk about a matter of love," said Rev. Robert Hardies, All Souls Church Unitarian.

They are also challenging the notion that the African American community is united again same-sex marriage. "Because those of us who have been oppressed ought to be the last ones to oppress," said Wiley.

At least 137 faith leaders have signed a declaration of support for full marriage equality, but they also say the state should not require any religious group to officiate or bless same-sex marriages.

"Allow each church and denomination to decide whether they would perform the ritual or not," said Rev. Rainey Cheeks, Inner Light Ministries.

They say the 'vitriolic' exchanges on Freedom Plaza and inside the Wilson Building have been painful. Now, they promise to take their message to their political leaders and congregation, even conservative colleagues.

"Love always finds a way. It is a sacred truth," said Rev. Alton Pollard, Howard University School of Divinity.

On the local level, Jackson is trying to organize a referendum on marriage in D.C. On the federal level, he is working with members of Congress in an effort to reverse the action taken by the D.C. council and Mayor Adrian Fenty, recognizing same-sex marriage.

NewsChannel 8 didn’t get a response from Hope Christian Church and Bishop Jackson in regards to the latest support for same-sex marriage from other clergy members.

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