Writer's Column Misrepresents Catholic Faith
A Gonzaga Bulletin Article by Rob Durbin, Mike Quieto, Kira Lombardozzi, Thomas Neville, Beth Larson, and Chris Rousseau
November 7, 1997

Re: "Homosexuality Article Unfounded," (October 24)

We are greatly disturbed that Abraham Ritter identifies his position on homosexuality as Catholic moral teaching. His position, rather, represents a heretical view of sexuality. The teaching he presents are injurious to the faith, thus incurring the condemnation of Jesus when He states in Matthew 3:16 that, "Anyone who is the downfall of one of those little ones who have faith in me would be better drowned in the depths of the sea with a great millstone around his neck."

Ritter refuses to accept the modern Catholic view of homosexuality as an unchosen disposition. Further, he does not understand that attitudes such as his foster homophobia. By identifying homophobic views with Catholic teaching, Ritter is guilty of teaching heresy. Thus, his letter represents a far more grievous sin than that which he condemns.

He labels homosexuality as a mortal sin that "dominantly characterizes" a person. However, the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, in article 2358, that "they do not choose their homosexual condition … they must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided."

Homosexual Christians, like all baptized, are, according to article 2348 and 2359, "called to chastity." Chastity is the appropriate use of God’s gift of sexuality. If they should live chastely, wherein lies the sin? The sin is in the unchaste action, a common enough occurrence on a college campus, notably among the heterosexual population. There are no separate rules placed upon homosexuals regarding chastity, nor any separate valuation of their moral worth - separations that Ritter’s letter presumes.

As stated in article 2347 of the Catholic Catechism, "The virtue of chastity blossoms in friendship … Whether it develops between persons of the same or opposite sex, friendship represents a great good for all." Friendship is based in selfless love. Therefore, chastity finds its highest perfection in love. Homosexual activity in the context of a committed and loving relationship is therefore more chaste than casual, unloving sexual activity between heterosexuals. Indeed, the aforementioned homosexual relationship may even be more chaste than that of an unloving married couple.

Is this halfway chastity a valid approach to Christian life? Yes, says the Catechism. Article 2359 states "by prayer and sacramental grace, (homosexuals) can and should gradually approach Christian perfection."

In a statement explaining the seemingly lax wording of this statement, Rev. Peter Luizi, Director of Gay and Lesbian Ministry for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, said "chastity is a journey word," meaning that our struggle for virtue is of itself redemptive.

The Catechism goes on to say in article 2358 that homosexual Christians are called to "unite to the sacrifice of the Lord's Cross the difficulties that they may encounter" in this struggle.

Homophobia is the denial of the intrinsic goodness of God’s creation. Thus, homophobes indulge in a far greater sin than the sin which they decry. Ritter should not attempt to pawn off his opinions and conclusions as Catholic doctrine. In truth, the majority of his article rests on statements that are gross misrepresentations of the Catholic Church and scripture.

Rob Durbin, Senior
Mike Quieto, Freshman
Kira Lombardozzi, Junior
Thomas Neville, Senior
Beth Larson, Sophomore
Chris Rousseau, Sophomore

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