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Week of June 16, 2024

16Jun

Week of June 16, 2024

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Dear Parishioners,

In late May, Pope Francis said something controversial. Specifically, he stated that there is too much “fagotry” (the Italian word is frociaggine which I am told is derogatory) in the seminary. Many people have criticized him for saying this because it runs contrary to gradual acceptance of homosexuality in Western culture. So, I would like to take a moment to clarify what the Church teaching is on homosexuality, especially in the clergy.

The Holy Father’s statement was especially hurtful to people who expected the Pope to soften the Church’s stance on homosexuals. There are many examples of the Pope being sympathetic to same-sex attracted persons in the past. While commenting on a homosexual who is trying to live chastely, the Pope remarked, “Who am I to judge?” And many took that to mean that homosexual acts are allowed or at least not that bad, ignoring the fact that the person the Pope was talking about was living a chaste life. The Pope has also promoted Fr. James Martin who leads an LGBTQ ministry and has also come out as gay (his term) himself. Lastly, the Pope has allowed non-liturgical blessings of same sex couples. But if one examines what the Church actually teaches, it should not be surprising at all.

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, homosexual acts are contrary to the natural law. The sexual act exists for the union of the spouses and the procreation of children. So, any use of sex outside of those is gravely immoral. (CCC 2357) The Church recognizes that people with same sex attraction have a special cross to bear and encourages them to live a life of chastity and self-mastery. (CCC 2359) They should be treated with “respect, compassion and sensitivity” and should not be the victims of unjust discrimination. (CCC 2358)

Meanwhile the Church has stated in a 2005 instruction the barriers that exist for practicing homosexuals to enter seminary. (See the link below) This instruction tells us that someone who is practicing homosexuality, has deep seated homosexual tendencies or supports “gay culture” cannot be admitted to the seminary. This is distinct from someone who may have had homosexual tendencies in the past and is striving to live chastely. The point is that they need to see themselves as a spiritual father toward the community of the Church. The homosexual lifestyle runs contrary to that vision.

So, overall, I appreciate that the Holy Father is upholding Church teaching even if not stated in the gentlest way possible. This is a truth that we need to hear especially during this month which has been co-opted by the “Pride” movement. Sometimes the truth people don’t want to hear the most is the truth that they most need to hear. Let us pray for the Holy Father and also for all of those struggling with their sexuality. There is hope for all people and it can be found in Our Lord, Jesus Christ.

God Bless!

Fr. Carter