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Rome Synod Final Report — Breaking

On gay policy, a huge defeat for liberal bishops

Here, via Rorate Caeli, is the final version of the Synod report, in Italian. The paragraphs about homosexual orientation reflect a definite win for the orthodox. From Google translate, and me:

Some families live the experience of having those with homosexual orientation among them. In this regard, we have based our approach to pastoral care by referring to what the Church teaches: “There is no foundation whatsoever to assimilate or to establish even remotely analogous, including same-sex unions and the plan of God for marriage and the family.” Nevertheless, men and women with homosexual tendencies must be accepted with respect and sensitivity. “In their regard should be avoided every sign of unjust discrimination” (Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Considerations Regarding Proposals to Give Legal Recognition to Unions Between Homosexual Persons).

It is totally unacceptable that the Pastors of the Church suffer the pressures in this matter, and that international bodies make financial aid to poor countries contingent on the introduction of laws that establish the “marriage” between persons of the same sex.

At first glance, this appears to be a significant repudiation of liberals and reformers. I’ll wait for the English translation, and commentary from those in a better position to judge. I don’t know for sure what the text says on communion for divorced and remarried people. Updates to follow.

UPDATE: Here’s John L. Allen’s report. The news is not as good for the orthodox as it first seemed. The paragraphs on LGBT (above) and divorced Catholics did not receive a 2/3 majority vote of the Synod. The bishops are more divided than we might have thought. This is going to be a long, difficult struggle for orthodox Catholics.

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