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

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

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

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

While Some Continue to Laud Pope’s Support for Civil Unions, Others Have a Different View

Theologians and LGBTQ Catholics, as well as secular advocates for equality have continued to offer mostly positive appraisals on Pope Francis' reiterated support for civil unions that recognize same-gender couples. Read More

Exuberant Praise for Pope Francis from One Bishop, But from Others, Not So Much

Bishops worldwide, as well as a top official with the Archdiocese of New York, have publicly criticized Pope Francis for his support of civil unions that recognize same-gender couples, though a few exceptions exist. Read More

LGBTQ and Catholic Advocates Worldwide Praise Pope Francis’ Support for Civil Unions

LGBTQ advocates are praising Pope Francis for his most recent statement in support of civil unions recognizing same-gender couples. Read More

The Good and the Bad of Pope Francis’ Support for Civil Unions

Theologian Lisa Fullam writes, "Pope Francis’ recent statement supporting civil unions for lesbian and gay couples is, I think, good news and bad news." Read More