Pope Francis affirms queer legacy of hope
The news of Pope Francis’ new declaration, “Fiducia Supplicans,” clarifying that Catholic priests have the ability to bless same-sex unions marks a major shift in the 2,000-year old institution’s praxis.
In the midst of Advent, the pre-Christmas season of deep reflection and anticipation for Catholics and many Christians, Pope Francis chose to embody the season’s call for compassion and liberation in unprecedented ways.
LGBTQ Catholics like myself are stunned. Many of us have labored for much of our careers, following in the footsteps of those who have organized for generations for the rights of LGBTQ people both inside and beyond the walls of the Catholic Church.
Organizations like New Ways Ministry or DignityUSA have been stalwart heroes in this fight for inclusion and dignity. Younger organizations like Vine & Fig have fought to create community for LGBTQ Catholics, while leaders like Father James Martin, Father Bryan Massingale and Sister Luisa Derouen have long suffered in their advocacy for queer and transgender Catholics.
