MANILA, KOMPAS.com – Support Pope Francis Against the same-sex Civil Union reaping mixed reactions on Thursday (22/10/2020) at Filipina.
Philippines, fortress Catholic in Asia reacted counter to the Pope’s decision with a bishop saying he was offended by the decision.
While the bishops’ group objected, groups LGBT relieved the controversial decision.
Launch Associated Press (AP) Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte spokesman said the Philippine leader had long expressed support for same-sex civil unions, but added that was necessary through Congress.
Also read: Pope Francis Openly Supports Civil Unions for LGBT
Retired Bishop of Sorsogon Arturo Bastes said he “has very serious doubts about the moral correctness” of the Pope’s position.
He said it went against the old church teachings, which explicitly allowed the union of men and women in either the church’s civil, legal or sacramental unity.
“This is a shocking statement to come from the Pope,” Bastes told reporters by cell phone message.
“I am deeply offended by his defense of same-sex associations, which inevitably lead to immoral acts.”
Also read: The First Time, Pope Francis Wears a Mask in Public
At least three other bishops expressed disbelief, saying they would verify whether that was the Vatican’s official position and whether the pope was quoted accurately in its context in a documentary in which he made the statement.
“This is only a documentary film so it is not official and must be verified first,” said Bishop Balanga Ruperto Santos, adding that there may be changes in the editing or the documentary “is only for propaganda so that it can be discussed or protected.”
The bishops’ conference of the Philippines, the largest group of bishops in the predominantly Roman Catholic country, has yet to issue any reaction.
Group LGBTQ Bahaghari told ABS CBN News that the pope’s position is a “big thing” and should lead to changes in the Philippine family code to recognize such unity.
Also read: Pope Francis promises to maintain social distancing during his congregational meetings
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said Duterte had long supported same-sex civil unions and papal support could eventually convince legislators to give their approval.
In the past, such proposals have been opposed or shunned by conservative legislators or those who are afraid to anger influential church leaders.
“With nothing less than the pope’s support, I think even the most conservative of all Catholics in Congress should no longer have grounds for objections,” said Roque.
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