The three paragraphs in the Catholic Catechism on the subject of homosexuality are some of the most difficult to read, at least for me.  They must have been some of the most difficult to write, no matter how one views this subject.  The Catechism asserts that persons with same sex attraction do not choose this (true, and equally true of heterosexuals), the sexual expression consonant to this attraction is not considered natural, thus “disordered” (because this expression cannot of itself possibly involve conception), that they are due respect like every person, and they are called to fulfill God’s will for them.  In light of this the Church teaches celibacy for every one of these members.  All of this in three paragraphs!

A number of us have sons or daughter, siblings, and friends who are homosexual.  These are fine persons.  It boggles the mind to try to perceive disorder in them.  A demonic aspect is the way in which religion induces a “righteous stigma” against these individuals.  How often have homosexuals been attacked and killed in the name of the Bible or religion?  Hence, the Catechism  has an injunction against “unjust discrimination in their regard” (which is still ambiguous). How do we as Church relate to homosexually-oriented persons?  

First, these persons deserve our love, as family members but also as church members and beyond.  We should be consistent in practicing the Christian value of human dignity here.  We need not be taken aback by the revelation of a person’s orientation, realizing that there are some tricky implications that Catholicism does not allow, even if other denominations do.  Like every baptized person, we are called to holiness.  What does that look like…for the same-sex oriented person?

Second, I hope that there are Catholic scientists taking the lead on research.  This would help better humankind and enlighten the social mores (I hope!).  The Catholic understanding of the revelation of God within nature warrants this.  How is homosexuality normal or not normal in the scientific understanding, and in what way?  Our ethics needs further clarity on this.  

The Catholic understanding of sexual intercourse involves complementarity and natural fecundity (potential of pregnancy).  Regarding the first aspect, at its (normal) best, both parties are honored and loved in their sexual expression.  It therefore can be asked: could this be true in a homosexual relationship?  The outstanding example of homosexual activity in antiquity was temple prostitution (There was also condemnation of heterosexual temple prostitutes for the sake of fertility rites.).  In this case there was a “lesser position/party” who served as a receiver that merited condemnation from Christian sources; often this position was relegated to a boy, to reduce shame.  Is this true today?  Why or why not?  

But the Teaching intimately connects sexuality with fertility/pregnancy.  It’s the way of nature.  But is it contrary to nature not to have this?  In other words, does nature have a variety (plurality, range) of manifestations?  If so, does human sexuality fit this 'range’?  How do we as Catholics probe such answers?

As Church, how do we encourage homosexual men and women to be holy?  How is the Church welcoming?  I realize there are some things we can’t say and do—officially, yet—, but let us probe for the deeper truth of this concern while extending arms of welcome to these children of God.