Posts

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

Anti-LGBTQ Stigma in Court Case Could Lead to Discrimination Based on Race, Gender, Etc.

The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Fulton v. City of Philadelphia yesterday, a case which hinges on whether religious institutions can be exempt from non-discrimination protections. In this case, the specific circumstances involve sexual orientation, but one legal scholar argues Fulton could open the door for other types of discrimination, too. 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

Fulton Case Before SCOTUS Could Be “Crushing Blow” to LGBTQ Rights

Regardless of the U.S. election's outcome, LGBTQ equal rights will remain under attack because "the Supreme Court and the federal judiciary now pose a serious threat to our most basic freedoms," wrote Jamie Manson, the new president of Catholics for Choice. 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

Celebrating LGBTQ History Month on Jesuit Campuses

October is LGBTQ History Month and, like many years, Catholic universities and colleges celebrated on campus. Here are a few reports from Jesuit campuses this semester. Read More