CHARLOTTE  — The Rev. Billy Graham is urging North Carolina voters to support a proposed amendment to the state constitution banning gay marriage.

In comments issued Wednesday from his home in Montreat, Graham said he believes the home and marriage are the foundation of society and must be protected.

The 93-year-old Graham said the Bible is clear in that God's definition of marriage is between a man and a woman. He urged voters to cast ballots for the amendment on May 8.

His complete statement is contained in a full-page ad slated to appear in 14 North Carolina newspapers throughout the weekend.

Graham's son, the Rev. Franklin Graham recorded a message last month in support of the amendment. Franklin Graham's sister, Anne Graham Lotz, has also said she supports the amendment.