Synodality in the Catholic Church: Toward a New Ecclesiology of Inclusion for LGBTQ+ Persons

Abstract

Synod reports throughout the globe reflect calls for more inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons in the life of the Church. These calls are made more pressing given the alarming statistics facing LGBTQ+ persons and the increasing rates of dissafiliation in the Church due to its exclusive practices. Research also shows that Catholics throughout many parts of the world support same-sex marriage and an increasing number of them support transgender persons. In this article, I argue that LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Church can be made possible if synodality transcends beyond an initial consultative process and permeates into the Church’s ecclesiological structures. Such an ecclesiological model has been proposed by Pope Francis, who dreams of a Church that listens and is open to being transformed by the guidance of the Holy Spirit which is revealed through the lives of the faithful. Furthermore, the teachings of Vatican II, synthesized with contemporary theology on synodality, support this synodal ecclesiological model. If adopted, a synodal ecclesiology would enable the Church to enter into a collegial relationship with the lay faithful as it excercises its magisterial role while paying special attention to voices that are underrepresented. Applied to LGBTQ+ persons, a synodal ecclesiology should inspire Catholic leaders to create spaces within the Church for LGBTQ+ persons to live their lives in the context of Catholic community. This would then allow the Church to fully listen to their life witness as it journeys together with them.