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LGBTQ Advocates React to New Vatican Guidelines on Gay Priests

Published

2 weeks ago

January 11, 2025

LGBTQ Advocates React to New Vatican Guidelines on Gay Priests

Vatican Approves New Guidelines Allowing Homosexual Men to Train as Priests with Conditions

The Catholic Church in Italy has adopted new guidelines allowing homosexual men to train as priests, provided they do not actively support what it terms “the so-called gay culture.” The Italian Bishops’ Conference released the 68-page document online on Thursday, emphasizing the Church’s commitment to celibacy while addressing the eligibility of gay men for priestly training.

Key Conditions for Gay Seminary Candidates

The guidelines state that men with “homosexual tendencies” may be admitted to seminaries if their sexual orientation aligns with the Church’s broader expectations of celibacy and chastity. However, it bars those who practice homosexuality, display “deeply rooted homosexual tendencies,” or advocate for gay culture.

“The Church, while profoundly respecting the persons in question, cannot admit to the seminary and to Holy Orders those who practice homosexuality, present deeply rooted homosexual tendencies, or support the so-called gay culture,” the document reads.

The guidelines urge a holistic evaluation of seminary candidates, suggesting that the Church consider a person’s homosexuality as part of the broader context of their personality. This approach aims to assess the individual’s ability to live a chaste and celibate life in harmony with the Church’s expectations.

Pope Francis and LGBTQ Inclusion

The new guidelines reflect Pope Francis’ nuanced stance on LGBTQ issues during his papacy. While maintaining the Church’s traditional teachings that same-sex acts are “intrinsically disordered,” Pope Francis has often advocated for a more inclusive and understanding approach.

In a landmark 2013 statement, Pope Francis remarked, “If someone is gay and is searching for the Lord and has good will, then who am I to judge him?” This inclusive tone has been a hallmark of his tenure, earning him praise from some progressive groups.

However, the Pope’s views have not been without controversy. In June 2024, he reportedly used a derogatory term for gay men during a private meeting with Italian bishops, drawing criticism. Despite this, Francis has consistently called for compassion and understanding in the Church’s dealings with LGBTQ individuals.

Reactions from LGBTQ Advocates

The updated guidelines have sparked a range of reactions. Francis DeBernardo, the head of New Ways Ministry, a U.S.-based Catholic outreach for LGBTQ individuals, described the new rules as a “big step forward.”

“This document clarifies previous ambiguous statements about gay seminary candidates, which viewed them with suspicion. This ambiguity caused lots of fear and discrimination in the Church,” DeBernardo said.

Jesuit priest and LGBTQ advocate James Martin noted that the guidelines signal a shift in the Church’s approach. “For the first time, a Vatican-approved document includes the notion that judging who is eligible to join a seminary cannot simply come down to whether or not he is gay,” Martin told AFP. He added that the document implies that gay men who lead a healthy, chaste, and celibate life may now be considered for the priesthood.

Balancing Tradition and Inclusion

The new guidelines reflect an ongoing effort to balance the Catholic Church’s traditional teachings with Pope Francis’ call for greater inclusivity. They underscore the Church’s focus on celibacy and chastity while addressing the complexities of sexual orientation among its clergy.

While some view the move as a step toward greater inclusivity, critics argue that the conditions attached to the guidelines still reflect discrimination and stigmatization of LGBTQ individuals. As the Church navigates these challenges, the guidelines are likely to fuel further discussions about the role of LGBTQ individuals within the Catholic faith.

society

Pastor Peter Oyediran Achieves Remarkably: A Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University ~Oluwaseun Fabiyi

Published

3 hours ago

January 24, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Pastor Peter Oyediran Achieves Remarkably: A Master of Science in Nursing from Walden University
~Oluwaseun Fabiyi

Pastor Peter Oyediran is an American-based Nigerian-born pastor who serves as resident pastor at RCCG Jesus House Huntsville Alabama and graduated with honors as a Master of Science from Walden University on Friday, January 24th, 2025; he is a resilient and easygoing man of God

Having practiced as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for years and acquired a new degree, he has further solidified his professional standing

As an illustrious figure in Nigeria and America, Pastor Peter Oyediran is celebrated for his remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s development, peace, and the diaspora. His visionary leadership, established many decades ago, has made him a reference point amongst his contemporaries

His tireless endeavors within Christendom represented a crucial turning point in the evolution of his community and the parish, which he guided into an era of advancement

Pastor Peter’s developmental achievements transcended religion, as he also explored physical health and medical practice. He acknowledged the importance of education and economic empowerment and thus established a scholarship scheme and initiated a soft loan program to support women in petty trading.These initiatives established a foundation for sustained growth and improved livelihoods

Pastor Peter’s contributions are equally profound globally, and his pivotal role in Christendom is unmatched

The accomplishments of Pastor Peter continue to stand as a lasting testament to his dedication to progress and peace, leaving a lasting impact on his community, state, the African continent, and the world.

Warmest congratulations are in order for this exceptional and esteemed man of God.

Oluwaseun Fabiyi a seasoned journalist writes from Lagos

society

Jailed for Snooping: Wife Faces Prison for Reading Husband’s WhatsApp Messages”

Published

17 hours ago

January 24, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Jailed for Snooping: Wife Faces Prison for Reading Husband’s WhatsApp Messages

In a case that has sparked heated debates, a young woman, Dumsile Dludlu, is set to serve up to three years in prison after being found guilty of breaching Swaziland’s strict Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act of 2022.

Dludlu was accused of unlawfully accessing her husband’s WhatsApp messages without his consent—a move that landed her in legal trouble under a law designed to protect individuals’ privacy in the digital age.

The Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act criminalizes any unauthorized access to a computer system or digital platform. Violations of this law carry harsh penalties, including fines of up to E500,000 (approximately R500,000) or imprisonment for up to five years.

Dludlu reportedly went through her husband, Samukeliso Matse’s, private WhatsApp conversations, prompting a domestic confrontation. During the altercation, Dludlu allegedly insulted her husband after uncovering messages that upset her.

“I did insult him, but it wasn’t as severe as what’s in the police statement,” Dludlu told the court, pleading not guilty to the charge of unauthorized access but admitting to the verbal altercation.

The case highlights the far-reaching consequences of the Computer Crime and Cybercrime Act, a law aimed at curbing unauthorized access to digital information. Critics argue that the law, though necessary to protect privacy, may be disproportionately punitive in domestic or minor disputes like this one.

The ruling has sparked a conversation about digital privacy and the boundaries of personal relationships in the digital age. Some have expressed support for the husband’s decision to pursue legal action, while others question whether such matters should be handled in court.

A New Era of Privacy

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting digital privacy, even in close relationships. As more countries adopt stringent cybersecurity laws, individuals are urged to be mindful of accessing someone else’s digital devices or accounts without permission.

Dludlu’s sentencing is expected to set a precedent for similar cases under Swaziland’s new cybercrime law, drawing attention to the balance between protecting privacy and navigating the complexities of personal relationships.

society

The Heart’s GPS: Coping with the Emotional Effects of Distance By Femi Oyewale

Published

18 hours ago

January 24, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Love Across Miles: The Psychological Toll and Triumphs of Long-Distance Relationships

Long-distance relationships (LDRs) are a unique test of love, resilience, and patience, often stirring up a whirlwind of emotions. While they can strengthen bonds and build character, they also present a range of psychological challenges. Here’s a closer look at how LDRs impact individuals—both positively and negatively.

The Struggles of Distance

Being apart from a loved one can feel like an emotional labyrinth, with many grappling with:

Loneliness and Isolation: The absence of physical closeness can intensify feelings of solitude, particularly during life’s challenges.
Anxiety and Insecurity: Distance may fuel doubts about the relationship’s stability, leading to worries about infidelity or fading commitment.
Communication Strain: Misunderstandings can easily arise through text or video calls, creating emotional tension.
Emotional Highs and Lows: The anticipation of reunions juxtaposed with the sadness of goodbyes often leaves individuals on an emotional roller coaster.
Depression: Prolonged loneliness and stress may lead to depressive symptoms, affecting overall mental health.
Adapting to Change: Partners may grow apart as they experience personal changes and milestones without each other’s immediate presence.

Silver Linings of Separation

Despite its challenges, an LDR can nurture personal growth and strengthen relationships in surprising ways:

Sharper Communication Skills: Distance encourages partners to express themselves more openly and articulate their feelings effectively.
Deeper Emotional Bonds: Without physical proximity, couples often rely on meaningful conversations and shared emotional intimacy to stay connected.
Fostering Independence: Time apart allows individuals to pursue personal interests, careers, and friendships, fostering a sense of self-reliance.
Cherishing Togetherness: Reunions become cherished moments, helping couples appreciate their time together more deeply.
Focused Goals: Many long-distance couples set clear goals—such as closing the gap geographically—giving their relationship direction and purpose.

Navigating the Distance

Ultimately, the psychological effects of long-distance relationships depend on the couple’s approach. Open communication, trust, and mutual commitment are the cornerstones of thriving despite the distance. While LDRs can be emotionally taxing, they also offer opportunities for growth, resilience, and deeper connection.

Whether miles apart or side by side, love endures when both partners remain dedicated to weathering the journey together.