Is the Pope in support of Homosexuals? These are likely Indications

The world’s Catholic bishops on Monday signaled a move toward greater tolerance of gays and lesbians on Monday, an about-face so unexpected that leaders of the Church’s right wing called it a “betrayal.” Noting that gays and lesbians have “gifts and qualities” to offer the Church, the midpoint assessment reflected the impact that Pope Francis seems to be having on the two-week Synod on the Family as he pushes for a more open, less doctrinaire approach.

 “Are we capable of welcoming these people, guaranteeing them a fraternal space in our communities?” said the communique from the nearly 200 bishops and lay delegates. “Often they wish to encounter a Church that offers them a welcoming home.”

“Are our communities capable of providing that, accepting and valuing their sexual orientation, without compromising Catholic doctrine on the family and matrimony?” While they reaffirmed their opposition to gay marriage and same-sex unions, the bishops’ groundbreaking document nonetheless said homosexuality called for “serious reflection” and described it as an “important educative challenge” for the Church.

The bishops also foreshadowed a simpler approach to marriage annulments and responding to cohabitation. The document was presented to the media by Hungarian Cardinal Peter Erdo, the synod’s relator general, flanked by other cardinals.

While no decisions or doctrinal changes were announced, the report was described as an “earthquake” by John Thavis, journalist and author of the best-selling book, “The Vatican Diaries.”

The approach provoked an angry reaction from a dozen bishops before they left the synod hall and a fiery debate between the church’s right and left flanks.

“This is a stunning change in the way the Catholic Church speaks of gay people,” said the Rev. James Martin, a Jesuit author and editor-at-large for the Catholic magazine America.

 “The synod is clearly listening to the complex, real-life experiences of Catholics around the world and seeking to address them with mercy, as Jesus did.”

 While reinforcing marriage between a man and a woman, the bishops noted that gay partnerships had merit — moving toward the more inclusive approach signaled by Pope Francis when he famously responded “Who am I to judge?” when asked about homosexuality.