Another U.S. diocese has issued new restrictive policies regarding LGBTQ issues in Catholic schools, and its new directives compare being openly transgender with sexual abuse.
The Roman Catholic Church is having an internal dialogue on how to welcome LGBTQIA people into the Church on a parish level; Pope Francis prefers this pastoral/theological over an ideological/ political approach. I refer here to the Synod of Bishops that will meet in Rome to discuss issues that are germane to the common good.
The Diocese of Green Bay, Wisconsin, joins a minority number of U.S. dioceses that have issued sharply anti-LGBTQ policies in recent years, often targeting young people who are most vulnerable. In the past two years, restrictive policies have been announced throughout the Midwest.
These policies are out of touch with contemporary science and theological developments. Comparing trans identities to sexual abuse is nonsensical and immoral. But, more importantly, please do not confuse the pope's pastoral manner with the homophobic and transphobic view of this minority of bishops.
I realize that many have been deeply hurt by the promotion of such anti-trans and anti-LGBTQAI policies, and will leave the Church. However, I would caution them not to throw out the baby with the bathwater and advise prayer.
Clearly, Bishop David Ricken speaks only for his diocese of Green Bay, and Pope Francis speaks for the Universal Church. The pope was elected to the chair of Peter; Bishop Ricken wasn't.
Joe Murray
Executive Director
Rainbow Sash Movement (LGBTQAI+ Roman Catholics)