Pope Francis: A Man of Inclusivity

Senator Gustavo Rivera, a forever advocate for equal rights for all with Sal Conforto and Lewis Goldstein.

Senator Gustavo Rivera, a forever advocate for equal rights for all with Sal Conforto and Lewis Goldstein.

It was with great joy that I read the preliminary statement from the Vatican regarding a progressive change in the manner in which gays and other non-traditional couples are to be accepted and welcomed as members of the Roman Catholic Church. From the onset of his Papacy Pope Francis has shown his love for all as he said when asked about homosexuality said: “If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will who am I to judge?”. The statement recognizes the “…positive aspects of civil unions and cohabitation”. What I find most positive was the statement “… some gay couples provide each other mutual aid to the point of sacrifice” and “precious support in the life of the partners”. Hopefully this will lead to gay couples and other non-traditional couples to not having to fear isolation from their loved one when hospitalized or in near death situations. Archbishop Bruno Forte said: “The fundamental idea is the centrality of the person independently of sexual orientation”.

It is hoped that a new position will mean that gays who come out and are active in the Roman Catholic Church will not be disallowed from teaching, being members of choirs, being denied entry in Catholic school and not be forbidden the religious rites of the Church. It is hoped that the words of the Rev. James martin, editor at large of America the Jesuit magazine will be accepted by all. He said: “…. Even though this is an interim document, it represents a revolution in the way the church speaks about our gas and lesbian brothers and sisters.” The Vatican expert and papal biographer Marco Politi said “This is a turning point. It’s a complete reversal with regard to the line of Popes Benedict and John Paul II,”

Eunic Ortiz, President of Stonewall Democratic Club of New York City said: “The news out of the Vatican yesterday is a step in the right direction. The Catholic Church is finally recognizing that there is nothing wrong with loving same-sex couples and families. We must continue to educate and work with our leaders in clergy to make sure LGBT Catholics and beyond are treated equally and welcomed in their communities rather than shunned under false beliefs.”

Senator Gustavo Rivera commented: “I commend the Catholic Church and Pope Francis for the release of a working document that shows a clear commitment by the Church toward becoming more understanding and inclusive of the LGBT community. I applaud this historic moment and hope that the Church, under the leadership of Pope Francis, continues to takes steps to become more tolerant and make the world a more equal place for countless of individuals around the world.”

As a gay Jewish kid from the Bronx I was not sure if I should write an article about the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. My decision to write this column was based on several considerations. One was my total respect and admiration for Pope Francis from the beginning of his Papacy. He is more than worthy of a Nobel Peace Prize. I know how many of my gay Catholic friends feel and how the want to be even more active in the Church. One very close friend of over 50 years is a practicing Catholic. He goes to church every Sunday. He has been in a loving relationship with another man for 15 years. It is encouraging to see that the church will finally be as accepting of him as he is of the Roman Catholic Church.”

Eunic Ortiz, President, Stonewall Democratic Club of New York City and her life Partner Melanie La Rocca.

Eunic Ortiz, President, Stonewall Democratic Club of New York City and her life Partner Melanie La Rocca.

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