CHICAGO – The fight to legalize gay marriage in Illinois received another boost Sunday, with an open letter from more than 200 pastors and rabbis in the state saying marriage rights for all people is a matter of justice and equality.

The group planned to send the letter to lawmakers, who are expected to take up the matter when they reconvene early next month in Springfield.

“The sacred writings and traditions that we follow carry the messages of love, justice and inclusion. The very basis of marriage is to protect the family, strengthen our communities and advocate compassion,” the letter reads. “No couple should be excluded from that.”