The Episcopal bishop of Massachusetts says priests can now officiate at same-sex weddings.

Bishop Thomas Shaw, a long time supporter of gay rights and same-sex marriage told the Boston Globe that gay couples deserve the "same sacrament of fidelity" as heterosexual couples.

In a letter to the newspaper, Shaw explained that priests can decline to officiate same-sex weddings if they choose.

Shaw said his diocese includes "a significant number of gay and lesbian clergy who are in partnerships," and that "many of our parishes have significant numbers of gay and lesbian people."

Shaw's decision affects close to 200 parishes in eastern Massachusetts.