Rorate Caeli

Relatio Synodi - rejected paragraphs on communion for divorced and homosexuals - in English

This is our tentative translation done in a rush, so it has no official value whatsoever, just for the record (the references to past Church documents, however, come from the official translations).

The paragraphs on "persons with homosexual orientation" (not "homosexuals", as in the partial relatio) in particular are absolutely different from the stunningly scandalous Forte-Spadaro paragraphs of the first relatio, and no reference is made in them for a "deeper" study in the upcoming year, as in the paragraphs on communion for "remarried divorcees". But not even like this they became part of the official text! It is a considerable setback for the revolutionaries, which they will certainly try to reverse in 2015.

Important note: Paragraphs 52, 53 and 55 were rejected*, having not reached 2/3 of the Fathers for required approval (123 votes).

... [52. The possibility for the divorced and remarried to accede to the sacraments of Penance and the Eucharist was considered. Several Synod Fathers insisted in favor of the current discipline, in consideration of the constitutive relationship between participation in the Eucharist and communion with the Church and her teaching on indissoluble marriage. Others expressed themselves in favor of a non-generalized welcoming to the eucharistic table, in certain particular situations and in very specific circumstances, especially in cases that are irreversible and linked to moral obligations towards children who would [otherwise] be subjected to unjust suffering. The eventual access to the sacraments should be preceded by a penitential path under the responsibility of the diocesan Bishop. The matter should still be deepened, taking into consideration the distinction between an objective situation of sin and attenuating circumstances, considering that the "Imputability and responsibility for an action can be diminished or even nullified" by several "psychological or social factors." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1735)] [This paragraph did not reach the required 2/3 of the Fathers: 104 in favor, 74 against]

[53. Some Fathers maintained that divorced and remarried persons can fruitfully accede to spiritual communion. Other Fathers asked why they cannot accede now to the sacramental one. A deepening of this question is hereby demanded so as to make clear the particularity of both forms and their connection with the theology of matrimony.] [This paragraph did not reach the required 2/3 of the Fathers: 112 in favor, 64 against]
...
Pastoral attention for persons with homosexual orientation

[55. Some families live the experience of having within them persons with a homosexual orientation. Regarding this, it was asked what pastoral attention is suitable concerning this situation, with reference to what the Church teaches: "There are absolutely no grounds for considering homosexual unions to be in any way similar or even remotely analogous to God's plan for marriage and family." Nevertheless, men and women with homosexual tendencies must be welcomed with respect and gentleness. "Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided." (Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Considerations regarding proposals to give legal recognition to unions between homosexual persons, 4)] [This paragraph did not reach the required 2/3 of the Fathers: 118 in favor, 62 against]

56. It is absolutely unacceptable that the Pastors of the Church suffer pressure on this matter and that international organizations condition financial aid to poor Nations upon the introduction of laws that establish "marriage" between persons of the same sex.

* Supposedly: as for the rejected paragraphs, they will still be sent out (!) as part of the entire text to dioceses around the world for "discussion" in preparation for next year's assembly. Yes, even though they were rejected... Well, at least the dioceses will still be able to see the vote count...