In a recent documentary, “The Pope Answers,” Pope Francis has praised the virtues of sex, referring to it as “one of the beautiful things that God has given to the human person.” This statement comes as a surprise to some, given the Catholic Church’s traditional teachings on sex and celibacy.
During the documentary, Francis spoke with ten young people in their early twenties, answering questions on various topics, including LGBT rights, abortion, and sex abuse within the Catholic Church. The pontiff reiterated his stance on welcoming LGBT people into the church, stating that “all persons are the children of God” and that he has “no right to expel anyone from the Church.”
On the topic of abortion, Francis stated that while priests should be merciful towards women who have had abortions, the practice remains unacceptable. He emphasized the importance of calling things by their name, stating that “it is one thing to accompany the person who had one (abortion), quite another to justify the act.”
The pope’s remarks were published by L’Osservatore Romano, the official Vatican newspaper, which described the conversation with the young people as an “open and sincere dialogue.”
Pope Francis’s comments on sex represent a significant shift from the traditional teachings of the Catholic Church. While the church has historically emphasized celibacy and abstinence, Francis’s comments suggest a more accepting and inclusive approach to human sexuality.
The pope’s stance on LGBT rights and welcoming members of the LGBT community into the church also represents a departure from the Catholic Church’s previous teachings. In recent years, the church has faced criticism for its treatment of LGBT people, and many have called for a more accepting and compassionate approach.
While some may view Francis’s comments as controversial, others see them as a positive step towards a more progressive and inclusive Catholic Church. Time will tell how the church responds to these new teachings and whether they will lead to meaningful change.