Bishop Grech, one of the leading bishops in the Maltese Catholic Church believes that homosexuals and their children should be welcomed and supported by the church.
Speaking with the Times of Malta, Bishop Grech highlighted the importance of ensuring all people are welcome.
“This year the synod said that families who have homosexual members need to be supported, their decisions respected and not hindered in any way.”
The Bishop added that gay couples in civil unions are “part of God’s people, and like everybody else they are going through a journey and the Church needs to support them in revealing God’s hidden face.”
“We cannot define such a journey in stages and put up barriers, as the road is wide open to those truly seeking to follow God’s footsteps, regardless of their sexual orientation.”
Bishop Grech also believes that same-sex couples should be allowed to accompany their children to communion, baptisms or confirmations in the church.
“The child or baby should not be held accountable for their parents’ deeds, decisions or way of life. Why should the Church deny the opportunity for same-sex parents wishing to give a Christian formation to their adopted children? They are most welcome.”
Despite the Maltese Catholic Church’s progress, Bishop Grech appears to believe that homosexuality is a choice or “decision” and says that the Catholic Church’s teaching on marriage will not change.
“Marriage can only be referred to when talking about heterosexual couples. This is why there can be different forms of relationship. But this does not mean we are excluding or delivering judgment on other types.”
The Bishop adds that same-sex couples should not feel like they have a second-class status in the eyes of their faith community.
“We are neither condoning nor condemning anybody.”
The island nation of Malta, who will be playing host to the Mr. Gay World 2016 completion and was ranked first in Europe for LGBTI rights, legalised both Civil unions and same-sex adoption in April 2014.
Last Updated on Dec 8, 2015
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