Church's billboard supporting gay marriage

The Auckland church that's become the home of the controversial billboard is at it again.

St Matthew-in-the-City is installing a new message on its city property this morning, backing the Marriage Equality Bill.

Picturing a wedding cake with two brides, it reads, "we don't care who's on top".

Reverend Clay Nelson says it shouldn't be a surprise that the church, which has a long history of supporting the gay community, endorses the Bill.

He asks why any church would not endorse two people making a loving commitment to each other.

However, yesterday a joint statement by 70 Catholic and Protestant ministers said the Bill went against Government assurances at the time civil union legislation was passed that traditional marriage would not be meddled with.

The Anglican Church is making it clear it's not on board with the pro-gay marriage stance being taken by Auckland's St Matthew-in-the-City.

Bishop Jim White says that oddly the billboard doesn't clearly convey what St Matthew’s says are the key foundations of a relationship, which are mutuality, fidelity and love.

And Bishop Ross Bay says he's disappointed by the billboard but says he is not surprised as St Matthew’s stance on the issue is well known.

He says it adds nothing new to a good understanding of the issue.

Photo: The billboard's design (supplied)