On his way back from a successful trip visiting Latin America, new Pope Francis made some comments about his stance on homosexuality that have surprised and impressed many. Whilst not outright condoning homosexuality, it appears Pope Francis is stepping out from the traditional church line and signaling the more liberal direction he intends the church to take.

“Who Am I to Judge?”

The Pope’s recent statement, “Who am I to Judge,” was surprising and uplifting. Pope Francis is bringing the Catholic Church further into this century. Although all news outlets are running this as their top story, they are sometimes misconstruing the facts. the Roman Catholic Church is signaling that they still believe homosexual acts are sinful, and The church teaches love and marriage should be between a man and a woman, not a man and a man or a woman and a woman. But now Pope Francis is changing things by accepting the homosexuality orientation. He stated in his speech, “They say they exist. If someone is gay, and searches for the Lord and has good will, who am I to Judge.” Those are profound words that have made many take another look at the Catholic Church and its role in the world. Homosexuality, it seems, is not a sin. Homosexuals love the Lord, their belief in God is the same as straight people.

Stronger Roles for Women in the Church

Pope Francis, also expressed his desires for women to play a more important role within the Catholic Church. There was surprise from many corners about the unusual tone of the Pope’s words, but generally they are all seen as positive and bringing the religion into the modern world and making it relevant in this day and age.

Homosexuals and the Catholic Church

The Pope is accepting of homosexuals, but the Catholic Church still has a different view on the issue. Yes, the Catholic Church understands that homosexuals have attractions and desires toward the same sex, and yes, that is acceptable within the faith. What is not acceptable is “to act “on those attractions and desires. It is not a sin to be homosexual. What is not acceptable is for the homosexual “to act” on those attractions and desires. What the Pope believes is that homosexuals should become like a priest, take a Vow of Chastity. If one confesses a homosexual act to God, he will forgive, and God will forget.

The Vow of Chastity

The Pope’s accepting of homosexuals is in the right direction but can be confusing. It is not a sin to be homosexual but it is a sin to act upon it. To be part of the Catholic Church, a homosexual has to take a Vow of Chastity? If the person can do that, they can be homosexual and a Catholic? Actually, that is a lot to ask of a person. It is like the policy, “don’t ask don’t tell.” But on a positive note, the accepting of homosexuality is a step in the right direction. Change is coming and someday the Catholic Church will have to accept everyone as equals – no matter their sexual orientation.