(ZENIT News / Washington, 11.27.2024).- In a ceremony on November 15 at Trinity University in Washington, D.C., Bishop John Stowe of Lexington, Kentucky, received New Ways Ministry’s «Bridge Building Award» for his outspoken support of LGBTQ+ individuals within the Catholic Church. The recognition comes amid ongoing debates about the intersection of Church doctrine, pastoral care, and LGBTQ+ issues.
A Bishop at the Crossroads of Tradition and Activism
Bishop Stowe, known for his advocacy on LGBTQ+ matters, has drawn both praise and criticism for his progressive approach. While the Catholic Church teaches that homosexual acts are morally disordered and opposes transgender ideology, Stowe has consistently emphasized inclusivity and dialogue.
In his acceptance speech, Stowe highlighted the slow pace of change within the Church, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ language and theology. He lamented what he described as outdated theological frameworks and called for greater acknowledgment of gender and sexual diversity. “The Spirit calls us to community and participation,” he said, urging patience while also expressing frustration with the Church’s perceived inertia.
A Controversial Recognition
New Ways Ministry, the awarding organization, has long been at odds with official Church teaching. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) explicitly stated in 2010 that the group “has no approval or recognition from the Catholic Church” and cautioned Catholics against its interpretations of Church teaching.
Despite this, Stowe’s alignment with New Ways Ministry and his efforts to bridge the gap between LGBTQ+ individuals and the Church have made him a prominent figure in this debate. Sister Jeannine Gramick, co-founder of New Ways Ministry and censured by the Vatican for her views, praised Stowe’s “bold and courageous statements” in support of LGBTQ+ people.
A Pattern of Advocacy
Bishop Stowe’s record of LGBTQ+ advocacy is extensive. He has endorsed the use of inclusive language, supported gender pronouns aligning with individuals’ preferences, and organized events promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion within the Church. Notable actions include:
– Hosting a 2019 LGBT retreat at the University of Notre Dame.
– Issuing a public apology during Pride Month in 2020 for what he described as the Church’s failure to support LGBTQ+ individuals.
– Supporting the Equality Act, a legislative proposal that critics argue undermines religious freedoms and women’s rights.
– Promoting LGBTQ+-inclusive initiatives within his diocese, including a controversial “Service of Atonement” for past Church teachings.
Critics and Defenders
While supporters view Stowe as a trailblazer advocating for marginalized groups, critics argue that his approach contradicts Church teachings and risks sowing confusion among the faithful. Many see his actions as indicative of a broader trend within parts of the Church under Pope Francis, who has emphasized pastoral care and outreach to all individuals, including those in LGBTQ+ communities.
The Future of Dialogue
The award to Bishop Stowe underscores the tension between traditional Catholic teachings and efforts to engage with contemporary social issues. As debates over inclusivity and doctrinal fidelity continue, Stowe’s advocacy raises questions about the Church’s future approach to LGBTQ+ issues and whether a balance can be struck between compassion and adherence to doctrine.
In his closing remarks, Stowe called for greater openness and understanding, stating, “The journey is slow, but the Spirit compels us forward.” For his supporters, these words signal hope for change, while for his critics, they highlight concerns about doctrinal drift.
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