Church Teaching on Same-Sex Attraction

On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in all 50 states. Several states, such as Ohio, had a voter-approved constitutional amendment which was overturned by this ruling. This decision brought to a spotlight to the church's teaching on same-sex attraction, which continued especially considering Pope Francis', April 8, 2016 release of the document "The Joy of Love". We offer this page as a beginning resource for these interested in exploring this topic further:

Catholics who are sexually attracted to people of the same-sex face a unique set of challenges in living out their faith. There is perhaps no issue as hotly debated in today’s society as the tension between the church’s teachings on sexuality and the gay and lesbian rights movement.  The Catholic Church’s position while disapproving of homosexual acts, declares that same-sex attracted individuals themselves “must be accepted with respect, compassion and sensitivity,” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2358). Pope Francis' Letter, "The Joy of Love" invites us to enter into conversation about these important matters.


In the midst of all this controversy, there are practicing Catholics with the same-sex sexual orientation that are attempting to be chaste and strive for holiness in congruence with their faith. For these people, there is a Catholic apostolate called “Courage.”  There are many Catholics whose loved ones have told them they have same-sex attraction and don’t know what to say or where to turn for answers.  A companion organization for the loved ones of same-sex attracted people is called “Encourage.”  For more information on Courage International, visit their page. The site contains video and other resources, including the five-part DVD series.  You can also visit formed.org (using our parish code T3Y86D) for access to these video’s as well.  There is literature available in the gathering area for those wanting to know more about this important ministry of the Church.

Pope Francis on Marriage, Family, and Christian Living

What does the Church teach about Marriage?

Visit the USCCB webpage on the Church's Teaching on Marriage.