Pope Francis said on Sunday that the Catholic Church is open to everyone, including homosexuals, and that it has a duty to accompany them on a personal path of spirituality but within the framework of its rules.
The 86-year-old pope made these remarks on his plane journey back to Rome from Portugal, where he attended the World Youth Day Catholic festival. During a press conference, a reporter asked the Pope about the Church’s stance on granting equal rights to women and homosexuals, considering his previous statement that the Church is open to “everyone, everyone, everyone.” The reporter specifically referred to the fact that women cannot become priests and same-sex couples cannot marry or receive blessings. In response, the Pope explained that while the Church is open to all, there are regulations guiding its internal affairs. Therefore, certain sacraments cannot be bestowed upon those who do not conform to these regulations. However, the Pope emphasized that every individual has their own unique connection with God within the Church.
Pope Francis stressed the importance of ministers in the Church supporting and accompanying all individuals, even those who do not adhere to the Church’s rules, with the compassion and love of a mother. He clarified that women cannot become priests in accordance with the Church’s teachings, as Jesus chose only men as his apostles. Additionally, the Church does not permit same-sex marriage or blessings for same-sex couples. Nonetheless, the Pope supports civil legislation that grants same-sex couples certain rights such as pensions, health insurance, and inheritance. The Church teaches that same-sex attraction is not sinful but engaging in homosexual acts is.
Pope Francis has been striving to create a more inclusive and accepting environment within the Church, including towards the LGBT community. However, he has not advocated for changes in teachings that promote chastity for those with same-sex attraction. During his visit to Portugal, he assured the audience that the Church welcomes everyone, including those who make mistakes or struggle.
Over the past decade, Pope Francis has implemented several reforms within the Church, such as granting greater roles to women, particularly in high-ranking Vatican positions. However, he faces the challenge of finding a balance between appealing to more liberal believers and avoiding conflict with conservative factions within the Church.
Despite his recent surgery for an abdominal hernia, the Pope reassured reporters that his health is good. Although the stitches have been removed, he will continue to wear an abdominal band for the next two or three months until his muscles have strengthened. Finally, he expressed his rejuvenation from the World Youth Day festival, citing the organized nature and impressive turnout of the crowds. The closing Mass alone attracted approximately 1.5 million individuals in the Portuguese capital.
(Reporting by Philip Pullella; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Credit: The Star : News Feed
