Thomas writes:If you in your role as clergy found that a large number of
people in the Church entrusted to your care were not only defrauding
their neighbours, but doing so openly and challenging your moral
judgement of their actions, what pastoral responses would you find
acceptable?
I would attempt to point out the error of their ways. If they persisted
in defraudung their neighbors, I would take steps to censure them,
finally, excommunicating them.
If I had parishioners who were gay and living in committed
relationships, I would do nothing. If I had parishioners who were
supportive of gay members of congregation/their families, I would laud
them.
If I had parishioners who were living a licentious (sp?) life style with
multiple sex partners, I would deal with them accordingly regardless of
their sexual orientation. One's orientation is not in and of itself
reason for condemnation or excommunication, which, I maintain is
withdrawal of the sacrament.
peace+
John Dornheim
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