Bill Donohue comments on the homily given by Pope Francis at yesterday’s Mass for the opening of the Synod of Bishops:
Over the weekend there was much chatter over a host of contentious issues that will be taken up by the Synod. But none of this matters a great deal when contrasted with what the pope said in his homily to the bishops. He did not mince words on the subject of marriage. Here is an excerpt:
“He [God] made men and women for happiness, to share their journey with someone who complements them, to live the wondrous experience of love: to love and to be loved, and to see their love bear fruit in children, as the Psalm proclaimed today says.” The emphasis on the complementarity of men and women is a clear statement reaffirming marriage as a union between the two sexes; the comment on procreation underscores this point.
“This is God’s dream for his beloved creation: to see it fulfilled in the loving union between a man and a woman, rejoicing in their shared journey, fruitful in their mutual gift of self.” Again, the pope’s clarity on this subject leaves no wiggle room for misinterpretation: he is not about to sanction gay marriage.
There are many issues to be discussed over the next three weeks. Ultimately, Pope Francis has the last say. It would be refreshing if those on all sides of these matters were to allow the meetings to unfold without bickering and second guessing. The Synod is not a Las Vegas event open to bettors, and should not be treated as such.
