Catholic Charities of Boston has decided that it would rather end adoption services than have to consider gay couples when placing children in adoptive homes. The group has been responsible for more than 700 adoptions (thirteen adoptions by gay couples).

“We find ourselves in a conflict, in which the religious and moral principles of Catholic teaching and practice clash with the political and civil regulations of the state,” said Rev. Bryan Hehir, the president of Catholic Charities of Boston.

In Massachusetts, there are discrimination laws that force adoption agencies to look at all possible parents — a proposition the group says goes against their beliefs. The Vatican has long held that gay adoption is “gravely immoral.”

Related: “Mass. governor seeks adoption exemption for Catholic Charities”