NEW ORLEANS (June 21, 2012)--A day after electing their first African-American president, Southern Baptist messengers, meeting in New Orleans, passed a resolution opposing the idea that same-sex marriage is a civil rights issue.

Thousands of messengers at the denomination's annual meeting in New Orleans Wednesday were nearly unanimous in their approval of the resolution, which affirms Southern Baptist belief that marriage is "the exclusive union of one man and one woman" and that "all sexual behavior outside of marriage is sinful."

It acknowledges that gays and lesbians sometimes experience "unique struggles" but declares that they lack the "distinguishing features of classes entitled to special protections."

The nation's largest Protestant denomination is attempting to broaden its appeal beyond its traditional white Southern base.

At the same time, leaders said they feel it is important to take a public stand on their opposition to same-sex marriage.