Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Guayaquil (Agenzia Fides) - Archbishop Antonio Arregui of Guayaquil, President of the Ecuadorian Bishops’ Conference, recently sent a letter to all Catholics in the country, clarifying some of the guidelines given by the Bishops that have been a cause for concern among many of the faithful, as they were not well understood.
In his letter, the Archbishop points out that “the only objective for any intervention on the Church’s behalf in social and juridical matters, is the promotion and protection of the dignity of the human person, in accordance with the Gospel and right reason.” The Archbishop also observes that marriage is “a natural relationship between a man and a woman, a source of new life, a human good that is present in all times and cultures. It is inscribed in the very nature of the human person, and thus is not at the disposition of any political power.” However, in Ecuador, with the current debates over the new Constitution, “certain proposals have arisen with the intent to place unions between homosexuals on par with marriage and the family.” According to the President of the Bishops’ Conference, “these unions and associations are contrary to nature and are sterile in and of themselves. In no way can they be likened to the personal and exclusive self-giving towards which the man and woman tend, in virtue of their personal development and in collaboration with God in the procreation and education of children.” There cannot be, therefore, a “homosexual marriage” nor a “homosexual family.”
Moreover, “Christian moral guidelines consider homosexual practices to be a grave moral disorder that is incompatible with a life of faith, as it goes against the natural law and the Commandments.” With that said, it always maintains respect for all people and for their freedom in making decisions. Therefore, “the Church treats all men and women with homosexual tendencies with respect, comprehension, and with great care.”
In reference to these matters on a legislative level, Archbishop Antonio considers the fact that “no law can try to compare these relationships and lifestyles with the incomparable value of marriage and the family.”
With these essential matters left sufficiently clearly explained for a Christian conscience, the Prelate said that the confusion has arisen “in making reference to the regulation of rights and obligations that could arise in the case of a lasting relationship between homosexual persons, in light of which a legislation would necessarily be implied.” That is to say, “like all other citizens, homosexuals, in their private autonomy, can also make recourses to common law in order to obtain approval of their juridical situations of mutual interest.” However, under no circumstance would the bishops accept “a law in favor of legalizing homosexual unions as a source of specific rights and obligations.”
The letter closes with an appeal to all the faithful to unite efforts, “beyond political differences, for an authentic service to our homeland.” (RG) (Agenzia Fides 2/5/2008; righe 39, parole 483)
