During the Synod on Synodality in Rome, a gathering of Cardinals took part in an event led by Fr. James Martin S.J. and his Outreach group, focusing on the experiences of LGBTQ Catholics. This event, titled “What is the experience of LGBTQ Catholics?”, allowed LGBTQ individuals, particularly those in same-sex marriages, to share their personal narratives and suggest reforms for the Catholic Church regarding its stance towards LGBTQ communities. Reports from LifeSite News indicate that this initiative represents a growing dialogue within the Church about inclusivity and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations.
One of the prominent speakers at the event, Christopher Vella, who leads the LGBT Catholic organization Drachma from Malta and identifies as a bisexual man married to another man, emphasized his desire to eliminate any barriers to the free expression of love within the Church. Vella urged the Cardinals to engage with the authentic lives of LGBTQ individuals, encouraging them to look beyond stereotypes. He stated, “Get to know the real people behind the ‘mask’ who are trying to live a Catholic life,” advocating for an environment where love can be openly expressed without fear of condemnation or rejection by ecclesiastical authorities.
Fr. Martin’s Outreach group, which organized the event, is characterized as an “LGBTQ Catholic Resource” and provides support and information to LGBTQ Catholics navigating their faith. The resources offered include the “Outreach Guide to the Bible and Homosexuality” and “What Church Leaders Can Learn from LGBTQ Catholics.” Co-sponsored by the Jesuit-run America Magazine, the event represents an attempt to create a platform for the voices of LGBTQ Catholics within the broader context of the Church’s future direction, especially as it undergoes discussions regarding acceptance and inclusion.
Another influential attendee was Juan Carlos Cruz, a prominent figure who has previously shared his testimony about being both a sexual abuse victim within the Church and a member of the LGBTQ community. Cruz recounted an important conversation he had with Pope Francis in 2019, where the Pope reassured him about his sexuality, affirming that it was not a barrier to his relationship with God. According to Cruz, the Pope stated, “You know Juan Carlos, that does not matter. God made you like this. God loves you like this,” a declaration that reflects an evolving pastoral approach within the Church concerning LGBTQ members.
The testimonies shared during the event highlighted the personal struggles faced by LGBTQ Catholics and their hopes for a more accepting Church. Participants expressed a strong desire for the Catholic Church to acknowledge their existence and relationships, pushing for institutional changes that would facilitate greater inclusion. This gathering of Cardinals with LGBTQ advocates signifies a vital moment in the Church’s journey toward recognizing the complexities of human love and the need for reform in its traditional doctrines.
Overall, the event served as a notable intersection of faith and personal experience, aimed at fostering understanding and empathy among Church leaders concerning the LGBTQ community. By engaging in these conversations, the Church is potentially paving the way for future reforms that embrace a broader interpretation of love and belonging within its tenets, suggesting a significant shift toward inclusivity as it seeks to reflect the evolving values of its global congregation.