Pope Francis & "Gender Theory": What You Need To Know
Is the pontiff's stance on gender identity a reflection of deep-seated theological convictions or a reaction to evolving societal norms? Pope Francis has repeatedly and unequivocally voiced his concerns regarding what he terms "gender theory," framing it as a threat to traditional values and, at times, a form of ideological colonization.
Technically speaking, although the term "gender theory" isn't explicitly used in Laudato Si', Pope Francis has employed it extensively in various contexts since then. His recent visit to Hungary saw him reiterate this stance, signaling a consistent viewpoint. This repetition underscores the significance he attributes to the issue.
Last month, The Daily Beast published an essay that, among other criticisms, accused Pope Francis of "dissing women." This piece, authored by university professors Candida Moss and Joel Baden, cited an interview where the Pope discussed "gender theory" and its alleged failure to recognize the natural order of creation. The subsequent discourse highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the Vatican's position on gender and its implications.
Pope Francis's views on gender have consistently been articulated across different platforms. He met with the plenary assembly of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith during an audience at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City. He also arrived to celebrate the Pentecost Mass on a Sunday in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican. These occasions have consistently provided platforms to reaffirm his position.
The Pope's statements suggest that he sees "gender theory" as a component of a broader "world war against marriage." In a recent interview, he described the "ideology of gender" as "one of the most dangerous ideological colonizations." This strong language underscores the gravity he attaches to the subject. His views have been expressed in numerous settings, highlighting the consistency and conviction behind his statements.
In his papacy, Francis has demonstrated personal openness and welcoming towards transgender people, having met many throughout his tenure. However, he is convinced that powerful lobbies are pushing what the Vatican calls "gender theory." He has frequently described it as a form of ideological colonization, attempting to eliminate key distinctions in humans, and has even excoriated its concepts as Western propaganda.
Pope Francis has been a vocal critic of modern theories that propose gender identities exist on a spectrum. He argues that these theories fail to acknowledge the order of creation. The distinction between the "ideology of gender" and the field of gender research undertaken by human sciences has been an important element in his reflections.
While acknowledging that ideologies of gender claim to address understandable aspirations, Pope Francis has also indicated potential pitfalls. In a speech to diplomats in January, he termed it "extremely dangerous." He has reiterated his stance, most recently on Friday, where he addressed it again. The objective of the document, "Male and Female He Created Them: Towards a Path of Dialogue on the Question of Gender in Education," seeks to support those involved in the education of the younger generations by addressing complex issues of human sexuality. Pope Francis on Friday again spoke out against gender theory describing it as an "ugly ideology of our time," because it erases all distinctions between men and women. To erase this difference, he contends, "is to erase humanity."
In an interview with journalist Elisabetta Piqu for the Argentine daily newspaper La Nacin, Pope Francis explained the reasoning behind his strong statements. He has said that "gender ideology, today, is one" of the most critical challenges.
Francis's approach to gender issues has been characterized by a reserved stance. He has criticized both gender studies and, at times, has been critical of trans people. A new document from the doctrine office places certain practices in the same category as abortion and euthanasia, classifying them as violations of God's plan for human life.
Gender ideology, which seeks to blur the differences between men and women through movements like transgenderism, "makes everything the same," Pope Francis has said. He delivered his Urbi et Orbi (to the city and the world) message at St. Peter's Square, on Easter Sunday, at the Vatican, March 31, 2024. Pope Francis at his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square in Vatican City last week. Saint Peter's Square, Wednesday, April 15, 2015.
Vatican City (RNS) For the second time in less than a year, Pope Francis met with transgender and intersex Catholics on Sunday (Oct. 13) at the Vatican, where he listened to their stories. This approach contrasts with his condemnation of "gender theory." After substantial revision in recent months, a document was approved on March 25 by Pope Francis, who has denounced "gender theory" as the "worst danger" facing humanity today, an "ugly" ideology.
Pope Francis greets bishops during the weekly general audience at St. Peter's Square in Vatican City on April 10, 2024. The document also broadly denounces "gender theory." Despite his personal openness and welcoming demeanor towards LGBTQIA+ Catholics, Francis has avoided changing the church's teachings on homosexuality or gender. As many observers have pointed out, "I think its Pope Francis style to model."
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Core Beliefs | Emphasizes the importance of traditional family structures, the sanctity of marriage, and the inherent differences between men and women as ordained by creation. Views "gender theory" as a threat to these foundations. |
| Key Criticisms | Denounces what he perceives as attempts to erase the distinction between men and women, viewing these as a form of ideological colonization. Criticizes the blurring of gender lines and the concept of gender as a spectrum. |
| Terminology | While he rarely uses the exact term "gender theory" in official documents like Laudato Si', he has used it frequently in interviews and speeches. He often refers to an "ideology of gender." |
| Impact | His statements have resonated widely within the Catholic Church, influencing the Church's stance on gender and sexuality. His statements have also influenced the policies of Catholic schools. |
| Engagement with LGBTQIA+ Community | While critical of gender theory, Pope Francis has shown personal warmth and openness to transgender and intersex individuals, meeting with them and listening to their stories. This demonstrates his focus on pastoral care. |
| Comparison | Pope Francis' stance often contrasts with more progressive views on gender held by some within the Church and in broader society. |
| Context | His views are often presented within the context of promoting traditional family values, which he believes are under threat from modern ideologies. |
Reference: Official Vatican Website
