Gay relationships are not ‘positive’, warn Catholic bishops
Catholic bishops in Rome have moved to quash speculation of a dramatic new approach to viewing gay relationships.
The document said gay people have “gifts and qualities to offer the Christian community.”
John Thavis, a Vatican expert, called the document “an earthquake” in the Church’s attitude towards same-sex couples.
“The document clearly reflects Pope Francis’ desire to adopt a more merciful pastoral approach on marriage and family issues,” he said.
But on Tuesday several bishops warned against reading too much into a call for a change in tone.
Homosexuality remains a sin in the eyes of the Catholic Church and would not been seen as “positive”.
Italian news agency ANSA reports a joint statement read: “In relation to homosexuals, moreover, the need for a welcome was highlighted, but with the right care, in order not to create the impression of a positive evaluation of this approach on the part of the Church. The same attention had been called for in respect of cohabitation.”
In March, Pope Francis declared: “matrimony is between a man and a woman”.
