Our Catholic mission calls us to strive to be a community where every person—including those who identify as LGBTQ—are seen, valued, and supported, and the God-given dignity of each individual is upheld.
The Catholic Church’s mission calls all its members to uphold the inherent dignity of every person, recognizing that each individual is created in the image and likeness of God. This foundational belief compels the Church to strive for a community where every person—including those who identify as LGBTQ+—is seen, valued, and supported. Such an inclusive community is not merely a social ideal but a reflection of the Church’s commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ, who reached out to the marginalized and called for love, compassion, and justice.
At the heart of Catholic social teaching is the principle of human dignity. This principle asserts that every person possesses intrinsic worth, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The Second Vatican Council’s document Gaudium et Spes emphasizes that any form of discrimination that undermines human dignity is contrary to God’s will. This teaching has been reaffirmed in various Church documents, which call for the eradication of unjust discrimination and the promotion of the common good for all people, including those who are LGBTQ+.
Pope Francis has been a prominent advocate for a more inclusive Church. His papacy has been marked by efforts to engage with LGBTQ+ individuals in a spirit of pastoral care and accompaniment. While maintaining traditional teachings on marriage and sexuality, Pope Francis has emphasized the importance of welcoming LGBTQ+ persons into the Church community. He has stated that being homosexual is not a crime and has supported civil unions as a means to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. His approach encourages a Church that listens, understands, and offers support to all its members.
The Church’s commitment to inclusion is also reflected in its teachings on solidarity and the preferential option for the poor. These principles call for a focus on those who are most vulnerable and marginalized in society. LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly youth, often face significant challenges, including higher rates of homelessness and discrimination. The Church is called to stand in solidarity with these individuals, offering them support, compassion, and a sense of belonging within the faith community.
In practical terms, this means creating spaces within the Church where LGBTQ+ individuals can worship, find community, and receive pastoral care without fear of judgment or exclusion. It involves training clergy and lay leaders to engage with LGBTQ+ persons in a manner that is respectful, understanding, and supportive. It also requires ongoing dialogue within the Church to address the complex issues surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity, always with a focus on upholding human dignity and fostering an inclusive community.
While the Church’s teachings on marriage and sexuality remain consistent, the call to uphold the dignity of every person necessitates a pastoral approach that is compassionate and inclusive. This approach does not compromise doctrinal beliefs but seeks to embody the love and mercy that are central to the Gospel message. By striving to be a community where every person is seen, valued, and supported, the Church witnesses to the transformative power of God’s love and the inclusive nature of the Christian faith.
Catholic mission to uphold the dignity of every person calls the Church to be a community that is inclusive, compassionate, and supportive of all its members, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. This commitment reflects the Church’s dedication to living out the teachings of Christ and ensuring that every individual experiences the love and grace that are at the heart of the Christian message.
