Well, this thread is not about the sinfulness of homosexuality per se. One can agree homosexuality is sinful yet still agree the American church in its various outlets and expressions devotes too much time to it in a way that is unproductive, especially when it could be figuring out how to better bring homosexual persons into the fold.
I was responding to an individual who said that it was incomprehensible for an openly gay person to be actively/publicly involved in the Church.
Does that mean you are not going to answer the question? Its not that hard-do you accept the Church’s teachings on the sinfulness of homosexual behavior? I do.
I didn’t think there was a dispute about that. Anyone who publicly persists in grave sin can not be involved in church ministries.
Reminds me of the time when Jesus ate with the tax collectors!
Not really. The spectrum of “scandal” is not black and white, either/or.
Unless, I misunderstood, the OP was saying that the local Church was “obsessing” with homosexuality because she would not let those living openly as active homosexual persons or persons in SS “marriages” in positions of ministry and leadership which turning a blind eye to those who were contracepting, cohabitating and remarried after divorce. My response was relevant as a counter to that claim.
I have answered that question many times on the forums. I was prompted to start this thread partly because of my current understanding and position. I describe myself with a “Catholic tendency” in my religious affiliation above because although I am born and baptized Catholic and believe in many parts of the faith, I have not been able to accept this teaching for quite some time.
Define terms. An openly homosexual person who is living according to Church teaching should not in any way be barred from ministry or other involvement in the Church.
No you are right; this is basically what I was getting at.
THIS is a good step.It’s just, many people are living a life not in accord with Church teaching, and they are still active in the Church and want to be part of the Church. I have a deep desire to remain Catholic and be part of this church, but I also want a family life too. Do you see my dilemma?
Of course it is. If its not known it cant be a scandal.
Your premise is wrong to begin with. The Church is not obsessed with homosexuality. It comes up so often only because of those who disagree with the Church’s teachings on homosexuality. We don’t often have Catholics say they disagree with church teaching on adultery, or incest or most other sexual sins. Only with the sin of homosexuality are we bombarded with constant disagreements and demands that those who engage in homosexual behavior be treated differently than others who engage is other serious sins. And of course when we respond to those who attack the Church’s views we are told we are obsessed with homosexuality.
If that is the OFFICIAL statement it could be correct because MOST Catholic women use Natural Family Planning and the statement does not say what kind of contraception was used.
Maybe there is good reason for this.
Which is?
Maybe these people have close family and friends who are gay.
Yes, I do see your dilemma.
If a parish is letting parishioners who are publicly living a life not in accord with Church teaching take on active and leadership roles, that pastor is not doing his job.
It’s just, many people are living a life not in accord with Church teaching, and they are still active in the Church and want to be part of the Church.
Nothing in the Church is stopping you from doing so. If there is a barrier or a conflict, it’s internal. I know many, many people who are active in the Church and have a strong family life.
Though how would attempts to treat this spiritual illness be received by those arguing it is not wrong, and that they have an equal right to pursue a sexual relationship with whomever they love? Does it not seem likely the “patient” will sign himself out ?