News and Views

Pope Francis sent his greetings in a July letter to James Martin, S.J.

Even though Francis has repeatedly upheld the church’s official ban on gay men entering seminaries, the remarks seem to be at odds with the pope’s welcoming gestures to the LGBTQ Catholic community—including to gay priests

The pope renewed his support for the global decriminalization of homosexuality, which he called “a human fact,” during an interview with “60 Minutes.”

In this new role, O’Loughlin will assume responsibility for fundraising, strategic planning and overseeing the day-to-day operations of Outreach.

Outreach managing editor Ryan Di Corpo spoke with the director about his relationship to the LGBTQ community and his decision to executive produce “Building a Bridge.”

The declaration opens the door, for the first time, for the official blessings of same-sex couples by ministers of the church—something that has long been desired by LGBTQ Catholics and their families and friends.

The value of this document, however, is that it offers a specific and innovative contribution to the pastoral meaning of blessings, permitting a broadening and enrichment of the classical understanding of blessings.

By multiple accounts, LGBTQ people—at least through their stories and struggles—were present in the Synod hall. But they are noticeably absent from this document.

These papal meetings come amid widespread speculation and significant interest about discussions between Synod delegates on LGBTQ topics.

Pope Francis has expressed his support for Father Martin’s ministry on multiple occasions. Most recently, he sent his greetings to participants in the Outreach LGBTQ Catholic Ministry Conference in June.