St. Joe's Theology Expert Says, Don't Read Too Much Into Bishops' Statement
By Mark Abrams
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A document circulating this week at a meeting of the world's Catholic bishops in Rome signals that a more accepting church may welcome gays and lesbians.
But a Philadelphia-based theology professor says the bishops aren't proposing any change in Catholic doctrine on homosexuality at this time.
William Madges, a theology professor at St. Joseph's University who has been following the synod developments, suggests the bishops are taking a cue from Pope Francis to create a more accepting church -- but only up to a point.
"It's a real significant change in tone, and the report asks the question: 'Is the church really capable of welcoming homosexuals and giving them a kind of welcoming space in our community?' " he notes.
But Madges says there's nothing in the draft report that proposes changing church doctrine.
"It is not recommending any change in the teaching of the church with regard to homosexuality in terms of gay marriage and a variety of other related issues," he points out.
Madges says the gay issue is just one aspect of family-related issues the bishops are considering.
The treatment of divorced Catholics and a return to the sacraments and possible relaxation of annulment procedures for marriages also are part of the deliberations.
