In what is being described as a dramatic shift in tone and ideology, the Vatican speaks about its attitude towards same-sex couples and marriage.
Just three days ago, on the 11th of October, National Coming Out day was celebrated to raise awareness regarding LGBT+ communities. Meanwhile, members of the Catholic Church gathered together in the Vatican and in a rather surprising statement, discussed if the Church could ever be inclusive to LGBT+ communities and marriage.
While the Church still does not feel positive about same-sex marriage, their message seems less negative and shows hints at same-sex couple’s inclusivity. Although the Church continues to insist that same-sex unions are not on the same level as a marriage between a male and a female, it finally admits that same-sex couples have positive aspects that can be incorporated and recognised in the Christian community. John Thavis, author of The Vatican Diaries, explains how “the document clearly reflects Pope Francis’ desire to adopt a more merciful pastoral approach on marriage and family issues.”
This is as close to a breakthrough in the teachings of the Church and its ideologies. The Church is considering "non-traditional’ family dynamics as an opportunity rather than a threat.
While some are more close-minded than others and need more time to adapt to change, this is certainly a gigantic step forward on behalf of the leaders of the Church.
