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Catholic Gay Activists Denied Communion in Chicago

Priests denied Holy Communion on Sunday to a group of rainbow sash-wearing gay activists who showed up to protest a directive from Chicago's prelate that they violated church teachings by advertising their homosexuality.

There is a lot that can be learned by studying the long-term ramifications of this stand by the Catholic church. For those agreeing that the Bible and God forbid homosexuality, this action may be looked upon as good - a public stand by the church is being taken against those who publicly oppose the Bible's clear teaching.

I'm wondering, however, if there is not a pastoral element missing that would be designed to bring these church members back into communion with God. While a public witness against these individuals appears necessary, the censure should have been proceeded by a ruling against each person rather than homosexuals in general. Consider the Rules for Discipline of Presbyterian Church in America:

When any member or officer of the Church shall be found guilty of an offense the court shall proceed with all tenderness and shall deal with its offending brother in the spirit of meekness, the members considering themselves lest they also be tempted.

Posted by tim at May 31, 2004 11:13 AM

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