30/08/2023
Roman Catholicism is sometimes criticised by campaigners for covering up abuse, oppression of women and minorities. But on the other hand, the Catholic faith has a strong progressive tradition, with social justice a key demand of earthly governments. Did you know for example that His Holiness Pop Pius in the Second World War authorised Vatican Radio to use its powerful shortwave transmitters to beam reports of the unfolding Nazi genocide against Jews and other minorities - this was done even before the BBC or Voice of America reported the horror. Today, Catholics are still involved in a wide variety of social movements based on peace and humanity. In the US, a huge coalition of Catholic congregations and groups, including Women's Alliance for Theology, Ethics and Ritual, Call to Action, and the Sisters of St Francis amongst dozens of other groups, have signed a new pledge entitled "Beloved of God". In a press release the organisers of the pledge say "As Catholics, we firmly believe our transgender and nonbinary community members are beloved by God. We recognize that these individuals are living into the dream God had for them long before their birth. Their unique gifts remind us that God's love is dynamic and transformative. We feel called to openly state our support for this marginalized community during these times when they are increasingly faced with violence and criticism for their identities and experiences. We pledge to make an open commitment to supporting justice, equity, and affirmation for transgender and nonbinary individuals throughout the Catholic Church and the world." To sign the petition your organisation or congregation can visit https://belovedbygod.faith/.
