Pope Francis On LGBTQ: Pope Francis conveyed on Sunday that the Catholic Church maintains an inclusive stance, welcoming all individuals, including those from the gay community. He emphasized the church’s responsibility to guide them along a personal journey of spirituality, while still adhering to established framework of its principles.
speaking with reporters during his return flight from Portugal to Rome, Pope Francis also provided an update of his health, expressing that he had recovered well from his abdominal hernia surgery in June. Although his stitches had been removed, he shared that he would continue to wear an abdominal band for additional two to three months to strengthen his muscles.
Following the World Youth Day Catholic festival in Portugal, the 86-year-old pontiff appeared in good spirits as he engaged in a candid press conference, fielding question for approximately thirty minutes from his seat at the forefront of the plane’s reporter section.
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one journalist reminded him of his previous statemen during the trip, in which he had declared the Church ‘s openness to “everyone, everyone, everyone.” The reporter inquired whether it was contradictory that certain groups, such as women and gain individuals, did not possess the same rights and access to certain sacraments.
This reference alluded to the prohibition of women from becoming priests through the sacrament of Holy Orders, as well as the Church’s stance against same-sex marriage and blessings for same-sex couples, both of which are considered sacramental matters.
“The Church is inclusive, yet it adheres to regulations governing its internal life,” Pope Francis responded. He urged that as per these regulations, certain sacraments may be restricted. However, he clarified that this should not be interpreted as the Church being exclusive. He highlighted the individual’s unique connection with God within the Church.
Pope Francis underscored that Church ministers are tasked with supporting all individuals, including those whose choices may not align with the established rules, exhibiting the patience and compassion akin to that of a mother.
