The Catholic Church’s teachings on LGBT issues, particularly its stance on homosexual marriages, can sometimes be a source of deep pain and confusion, especially for parents of transgender and gay children. It is understandable that some parents might feel that the Church is judging or condemning their children, but it is essential to understand that the Church’s teachings, though often difficult to reconcile with contemporary views, are rooted in love—a love that extends to all people, including transgender children.
The Church’s Teachings and the Dignity of the Human Person
At the heart of the Church’s teachings is the belief in the inherent dignity of every human being, created in the image and likeness of God. This belief is central to Catholic doctrine and forms the basis of the Church’s approach to all moral and social issues. While the Church upholds a traditional understanding of marriage as a union between a man and a woman, it also affirms that every person, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, is loved by God and deserving of respect, compassion, and care.
The Church distinguishes between the person and the actions or inclinations that might be considered contrary to its teachings. This means that while the Church may teach that certain behaviors are not in accordance with its understanding of natural law, this does not diminish the worth or dignity of the person. The Church calls on all its members to treat others with love and to avoid any form of unjust discrimination.
The Church’s Pastoral Approach to Transgender Children
For parents of transgender children, it is crucial to know that the Church’s approach is not one of rejection but of pastoral care. Pope Francis has spoken about the importance of accompanying individuals with love, especially those who may feel marginalized or misunderstood. The Church recognizes the complexities of gender identity and the profound challenges that transgender individuals and their families face.
The Church’s call to love and accompany does not mean that it condones all actions or choices; rather, it emphasizes the need to walk alongside individuals with compassion and understanding, offering guidance and support. The Church encourages parents to remain close to their children, to listen to them, and to seek to understand their experiences. This pastoral approach is about meeting people where they are, offering the love of Christ, and helping them to discern God’s will in their lives.
The Authentic Love of the Church
For some, the Church’s teachings on LGBT issues may seem at odds with the notion of love. However, the Church’s concept of love is rooted in the belief that true love seeks the good of the other. This means that the Church’s teachings, though challenging, are ultimately aimed at guiding people toward what it believes is the path to true happiness and fulfillment in God’s plan.
Parents may worry that the Church’s teachings could lead to their children feeling unloved or rejected. It is important to emphasize that the Church, in its authentic love, desires the best for every person. This includes recognizing the unique struggles that transgender individuals face and responding with care, sensitivity, and respect. The Church’s mission is to bring the light of Christ’s love into every situation, to offer hope, and to help people find their true identity as beloved children of God.
A Call to Trust and Dialogue
To parents who fear that the Church is judging or condemning their gay or transgender children, the Church offers a message of hope and trust. Trust that God’s love is greater than any struggle, and that the Church, despite its challenging teachings, seeks to walk with you and your children in faith. The Church invites you to engage in open and honest dialogue, to ask questions, and to seek understanding.
The Church’s teachings on gender and sexuality are complex and deeply rooted in its theological and philosophical traditions. However, this does not diminish the Church’s commitment to loving every person as Christ loves them. The Church’s pastoral care is about creating spaces where individuals and families can encounter this love, even amid difficult and painful situations.
Conclusion
The Catholic Church’s stance on LGBT issues, including its prohibition on homosexual marriages, is often a source of confusion and pain for many families. However, it is important to understand that these teachings are not meant to judge or condemn but to guide and to accompany. The Church’s authentic love for transgender children and all people is rooted in the belief in the dignity of every human person and the call to love as Christ loves.
As parents, you are called to be the primary witnesses of God’s love to your children. The Church stands with you in this mission, offering support, guidance, and a compassionate heart. In the end, the message is clear: the Church loves your children, and it seeks to help them—and you—experience the fullness of that love.
You may also want to read “What Do You Do When You’re a Catholic Parent With a Transgender Child?”
Jocelyn Soriano is the author of the book Defending My Catholic Faith.
“Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.” – 1 Peter 3:15 (NABRE)
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The thing about hope is that it’s a positive force that shines the most when it’s dark. When everything’s going well, we hardly notice it’s there. But when things go against us, when our dreams fade and when we see no immediate reprieve from our troubles, that’s when hope does its best work for us.
"Where Hope Can Be Found"