Vatican eases tone on gay and lesbian Catholics

By Balitang America Staff, ABS-CBN North America Bureau

June 27, 2014

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – After getting feedback from the faithful about its teachings, the Vatican is taking a softer tone when it comes to the gay and lesbian community.

In a 75-page document released Thursday that compiled the results of a worldwide survey of Catholics, the Vatican said gays and lesbians must be treated with respect and, if requested, their children may be baptized.

The Vatican also admitted that priests are, at times, unsure of how to deal with same-sex couples.

While the church won’t change its teachings and stance against same-sex marriage, the document demonstrates an alignment with Pope Francis’ non-judgemental stance toward gay and lesbian Catholics.