Catholic Church’s Views of Homosexuality, Essay Example

The two documents in question are important because they demonstrate the differences in opinion that continue to prevail in modern society regarding the Catholic Church’s views of homosexuality. In spite of the best efforts of some persons to condone these behaviors in their entirety, other factors must also be considered that have an impact on society and its people, using homosexuality as a prime example of inequality between groups. The document “Always our Children” supports the interpretation of different societal norms and expectations that impact individuals and groups in different ways. The attempts to clarify a given position regarding homosexuality also demonstrate the importance of societal influence and perhaps the recognition that some of these statements are worthy of examination. It does not appear that the Catholic Church fully accepts homosexuality and perhaps never will; however, the Church does appear to recognize homosexuals as human beings with the same rights and feelings as everyone else; therefore, they must be treated humanely and with the utmost respect. This is an important step in bridging some of the gaps between existing perspectives and behaviors that have an impact on how societal norms are judged.

The Catholic Church’s interpretation of different perspectives regarding homosexuality is important and highly relevant because it initiates a conversation regarding this topic that must be discussed. Even in the Catholic Church, homosexuality should not be taboo and should not be viewed as a negative response to different events that have occurred throughout history. On the contrary, it is important to identify the needs of these individuals and to treat them respectfully so that they are provided with a level of care and compassion that they deserve. This is instrumental in shaping society and in supporting the development of new approaches to encourage widespread acceptance of these behaviors as part of mainstream society.

These statements also demonstrate the importance of understanding how society perceives homosexuality as an innate behavior and not as a choice. This is an important step in the discovery of new approaches to address homosexuality in the context of the Catholic Church without the traditional condemnation that has existed for many centuries. On the contrary, this approach supports a greater understanding of homosexuals as people with real feelings, thoughts, and emotions, and who love others in the same way as heterosexuals. The Church’s attempt to smooth out some of the wrinkles related to its position on homosexuality has been important because it demonstrates the need for an updated approach and viewpoint regarding homosexuality and related behaviors.

The creation of an environment within the Catholic Church that recognized homosexuality as an innate behavior rather than a lifestyle choice is monumental because it impacts how individuals respond to different ideas and interpretations of this group. At the same time, the Catholic ideal is outdated and unappealing because it does not consider the impact of negative behaviors related to homosexuality that have a significant impact on this group. Other issues must be taken into consideration, including the ability to reflect upon the needs of homosexuals as people, rather than condemning them and excluding them altogether from society. This is an important reminder of the challenges associated with the Catholic Church’s position and how it remains very difficult to accept, although it is a more liberal position than that which has occurred throughout history. As a result, it is important to identify some of these key principles and to recognize the importance of new strategies that support homosexual behaviors as an innate response rather than a lifestyle choice. This liberal use of terminology is quite interesting for the Catholic Church because it appears to recognize that homosexuals do not choose to be homosexual; rather, they are born with it in the same vein as heterosexuals who are born that way.

The creation of an environment within the Catholic Church that supports homosexuality at least appears to be moving forward because a conversation is taking place, rather than ignoring the ever-increasing presence of homosexuality as part of mainstream society. In this context, the Church is at least prepared to recognize this group for their contributions to society as human beings and who deserve respect from others. The Catholic Church has long condemned the mistreatment of homosexuals in mainstream society; however, it has not gone the extra mile in an attempt to be receptive to change and to recognize the importance of this discussion, even if those with the most non-traditional values do not agree. The Catholic Church preaches inclusion for all persons; therefore, it is unacceptable from this perspective to exclude homosexuals from this conversation. Therefore, the statements made in the two texts are relevant in this manner and provide greater support or at least an acknowledgement of the actions that are taking place in mainstream society in which many Catholics reside.

The shame and guilt that many homosexuals experience on a daily basis should not be tolerated under any circumstances, and the Catholic Church should not be one of the key leaders in these activities. Their position should be that of support and guidance rather than persecution. These activities represent a challenge to the status quo and support a greater understanding of the needs of this group and how they might fit into the Catholic Church’s views of society that currently exist. These factors support an ever-increasing acknowledgement of homosexuals as part of mainstream society and how they are viewed by Catholics around the world, including discussions and statements that have been made and will continue to be made from the newest pope and Vatican experts.