Most are aware that there is a movement in society today which is forcefully advancing a new ideology (a system of thought) about human sexuality. This ideology is causing great confusion, especially among young people. It is the “ideology of gender”, which claims that someone’s gender (male or female) is a personal choice that is not necessarily connected to his or her God-given biology. This ideology seeks to mandate its own principles of sexuality, reproductive rights, abortion, homosexuality and transgenderism upon the entire world.
The most overt source of pressure for changing the perennial understanding of human sexuality is UNESCO (United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture). Planned Parenthood Global is also strongly promoting a brand of reproductive and sexual rights in concert with this ideology. American billionaire George Soros is funding and organizing this movement around the globe as well. Pope Francis believes that this movement is disastrous for children, for marriage, for the family and for society in general. Last year in Brazil, at World Youth Day, Pope Francis explained his position to millions of young people in no uncertain terms:
“In Europe, America, Latin America, Africa, and in some countries of Asia, there are genuine forms of ideological colonization taking place. And one of these – I will call it clearly by its name – is [the ideology of] ‘gender’. Today children – children! – are taught in school that everyone can choose his or her sex. Why are they teaching this? Because the books are provided by the persons and institutions that give you money. These forms of ideological colonization are also supported by influential countries. And this is terrible!”
Last year, in his Apostolic Exhortation entitled The Joy of Love, Pope Francis similarly declared that we should embrace the sexual identity God gave us in accord with our biological constitution (no. 56). We are most grateful for the Holy Father’s clarifications on this issue. We pray that his words will dispel this confusion and lead people to the healing and mercy of Jesus.
There is no doubt that people have great struggles and trials in life. These take a variety of forms. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that the Lord is compassionate and understanding. The prophet says, "A bruised reed he shall not break, and a smoldering wick he shall not quench" (Is 42:3), meaning that God is most tender with the vulnerable and the wounded. Jesus only wants that we be healed and liberated by his truth and grace. He proclaimed, "If you live according to my teaching, you are truly my disciples; then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free." (Jn 8:32)
Servant of God, Maria Esperanza, pray for us!
Fr. Tim Byerley, Pastor