It is out of step with the continent’s values, many bishops say, and threatens to derail expansion in the church’s fastest growing region in the world.
Tag: Same-Sex Marriage, Civil Unions and Domestic Partnerships
Blessing of Same-Sex Couples Rankles Africa’s Catholics
It is out of step with the continent’s values, many bishops say, and threatens to derail expansion in the church’s fastest growing region in the world.
Vatican Defends Gay Blessings, but Offers Critics Some Leeway
The clarification on a declaration issued in December seemed designed to soothe critics while also showing that this is the way forward.
Inside Pope Francis’ Shift on Catholic Blessings of Same-Sex Couples
Pope Francis spoke with L.G.B.T.Q. Catholics and their supporters for years before letting priests bless same-sex couples. But the move’s timing also owed something to its conservative opponents.
Pope Francis Allows Priests to Bless Same-Sex Couples
A church official said the blessings amounted to “a real development” that nevertheless did not amend “the traditional doctrine of the church about marriage.”
Vatican Says Transgender People Can Be Baptized and Become Godparents
A document approved by Pope Francis lays out nuanced guidance in keeping with his vision of a more inclusive church, but it does not amount to a policy change in the church, the Vatican says.
India’s Top Court Rejects Gay Marriage, While Voicing Sympathy
Though it expanded the definition of discrimination, the ruling was a sharp setback for petitioners seeking a landmark victory on marriage equality.
Catholic Conservatives Criticize Pope Francis’ Synod
As bishops and laypeople from around the world prepared to gather at the Vatican, traditionalist Catholics who would not be among them staged their own show.
Vatican Synod Puts Catholic Church’s Most Sensitive Issues on the Table
Pope Francis’ calls for open-minded discussion will be tested this week as bishops meet with lay people, including women, to debate topics such as married priests and the blessing of gay couples.
What Is a Synod in the Catholic Church? And Why Does This One Matter?
A seemingly obscure meeting could be the culmination of Francis’ papacy and lay the groundwork for lasting change on issues like married priests and the blessing of gay unions.