In Italy, the very birthplace of Roman Catholicism, a bill that contradicts the teaching of the Bible has been overwhelmingly approved by lawmakers, allowing the civil union of same-sex couples amid widespread strong objections, especially from the church. By 372 votes to 51, with 99 abstentions, the bill passed the strict scrutiny. It is now up to President Sergio Mattarella to decide which side he should choose - the Bible that says marriage is only between a man and a woman, or the bill that accords homosexuals that same right. The bill's approval by Italy's Chamber of Deputies was unexpected, and drew outrage from most Italians who thought their leaders were conservative. Its passage left homosexuals with one last step for victory against the Roman Catholic Church - President Pattarella's support or veto.