What did Pope Francis actually say about homosexuals?

The secular media and certain elements within the Church are touting comments by Pope Francis about homosexuals that superficially seem to change Church teachings, at least as they are interpreting what he said.

The problem  is, of course, is that the comments are being taken out of context, and are not being reported in their entirety. Plus, we're dealing with quick translations

I am looking forward to the complete, official translation. But even the translations we have, when read in their entirety, and not just as screaming selective headlines, make it clear that Pope Francis is not changing Church teachings, nor is he repudiating things said by Pope Benedict.

Pope Francis referenced the Catechism of the Catholic Church - which states that homosexuality is a disordered condition, and that homosexual acts are sinful, but that we have to be loving and welcoming to people with homosexual inclinations. That part of his comments are often left out in the media reports because that requires nuanced explanation, or, perhaps because that part does not fit the agenda.

As for his supposedly new call for compassion, he is simply echoing what's in the Catechism, and what's been said before.

Those who would change the Church will continue to spin and cherry pick. But truth remains truth.

It's just that Pope Francis states the truth with a smile.


Pax et bonum