Does Pope Francis’ Civil Union Support “Ring Hollow” or Is It a “Significant Step”?

Commentaries on Pope Francis' remarks last month that reiterated his support for same-gender civil unions have continued to be published. Today's post features a handful of them with links provided for further reading. Read More

Archbishop Responding to Pope’s Civil Union Support: It Begins with the Human Person

A U.S. archbishop has responded to the pope's support for civil unions recognizing same-gender couples in a more positive way, suggesting Francis' approach begins with the human person, not church teaching. But not all church leaders have responded similarly. Read More

Pope Francis’ Theology of Family and Marriage Shows His Support for Civil Unions

What springs to mind when you hear the word “family”? If it’s vulnerability, humility, fidelity, unconditional love, selflessness, mutual support and respect, teaming up with others to support the community, and a welcome to children (in particular those with special needs) and LGBTQ members—and if it comes in many shapes and sizes, including same-sex couples—you have a highly placed ally in the Roman Catholic Church: Pope Francis. Read More

Yayo Grassi, Gay Friend of Pope, Says Francis’ Support for Civil Unions A “Seismic Movement”

Yayo Grassi, a gay friend of Pope Francis, said he was "not surprised at all" by news that the pope had reiterated support for civil unions recognizing same-gender couples, calling it a "seismic movement" in the church. Read More

Vatican Clarification on Pope’s Civil Union Endorsement Changes Little and Causes Confusion

A letter reportedly from the Vatican has attempted to clarify Pope Francis' recent reiterated support for civil unions recognizing same-gender couples. But despite some church officials' attempts, does this purported clarification actually change anything? Read More

What Comes Next After Pope Francis’ Reiterated Support for Civil Unions?

Just under two weeks ago, Pope Francis reiterated his support for civil unions that recognize same-gender couples. Many LGBTQ Catholics and advocates have given the pope at least partial credit for his remarks, but almost all agree more progress is needed. So what impact could Francis' support have in what comes next? Read More

LGBTQ Catholics’ Reactions to Pope Francis’ Support for Civil Unions Are Mixed Bag

Today's post highlights the voices of LGBTQ Catholics, who have had mixed reactions to the pope's words, with almost everyone agreeing that Francis needs to go further. Excerpts are provided here, but you can use the links to read further. Read More

Controversies Swirl Around Pope’s Support for Civil Unions, But Is There Really Much There?

Since news broke that a new documentary showed Pope Francis reiterating his support for same-gender civil unions, in this instance for the first time as pope, there have been controversies about what he actually meant and the film itself. Read More

Archbishop Says Pope’s Civil Union Support a “Reality Check”; Mary McAleese Seeks Doctrinal Change

A top Irish prelate has suggested that Pope Francis' recent comments on civil unions for same-gender couples should be a "reality check" for the church, while Ireland's former president has pushed the pope to reform church teachings about homosexuality. Read More

Fr. James Alison: Support for Civil Unions Reveals Deeper Truth About Pope Francis

Theologian and openly gay priest Fr. James Alison wrote a commentary on Pope Francis' support for civil unions, describing it both as "something not especially new, and yet genuinely 'a big deal'." Read More