The following appeared on the Facebook page of Bishop Joseph Toal, of the Diocese of Motherwell in Scotland. It seems notable to me because he uses this opportunity to remind his flock of the call to chastity among all unmarried Catholics:
STATEMENT FROM BISHOP TOAL: Bishop Toal has shared the following message regarding the pastoral care offered to who experience same-sex attraction. “Some clergy have asked me in recent times about the pastoral care we offer to people who experience same-sex attraction and I have had a number of discussions about possible approaches. One such approach commended to me is to make available the “Courage” ministry/programme – this encourages those who live with same-sex attraction to live a chaste life – which is also expected of all heterosexual Catholics who are not married – supported by the sacramental and prayer life of the Church. Many scoff at this option as unrealistic in today’s societies in which intimate same-sex relationships are condoned and have been afforded the status of marriage in some countries, but that is the way of life proposed in the Church’s tradition and the Church invites her children to abide by it. Whatever situation one finds oneself in in life the Church wishes us to remain close to Our Lord and constantly invites us to seek a life of true fulfilment. Our saints are our models in this journey of faith and life and it is good to be lead by the example of their commitment to fulfilling God’s will rather than our own particular desires. As Catholics we pray always for the wisdom to make wise choices and to be guided by Christ rather than the world around us.”
+ Joseph Toal
Bishop of Motherwell
And today we celebrate...