(JTA) — A Jewish newspaper in New Jersey said its first same-sex engagement announcement will be its last one.
The decision by the Jewish Standard was announced in a statement that came a week after the newspaper published its first same-sex announcement.
The newspaper did not expect the large volume of comments it received both against and in favor of publishing such announcements, the statement said.
"A group of rabbis has reached out to us and conveyed the deep sensitivities within the traditional/Orthodox community to this issue," it said. "Our subsequent discussions with representatives from that community have made us aware that publication of the announcement caused pain and consternation, and we apologize for any pain we may have caused.
"The Jewish Standard has always striven to draw the community together, rather than drive its many segments apart. We have decided, therefore, since this is such a divisive issue, not to run such announcements in the future."
The state of New Jersey recognizes civil unions, which extends to same-sex marriages.
The newspaper has been roundly criticized on pro-gay and lesbian and liberal websites since Monday’s statement.
