Vatican Takes Firm Stand Against 'Gender Theory' and Gender Reassignment

The Vatican has taken a stand against "gender theory," stating that any intervention regarding gender reassignment threatens the unique dignity of individuals. This stance is outlined in a new document titled "Dignitas Inifinita" ("Infinite Dignity"), signed and approved by Pope Francis, as reported by Vatican News.

The text specifically addresses the rejection of attempts to obscure "the sexual difference between man and woman." It emphasizes that any intervention aimed at gender change generally jeopardizes the unique dignity inherent in each person from the moment of conception, as stated in the document.

The declaration largely echoes Catholic teachings on these matters, emphasizing the equal dignity of all individuals regardless of their circumstances, without singling out specific issues like abortion. Regarding abortions, it strongly reiterates the Pontiff's past statements, linking the protection of unborn life closely with the protection of all other human rights.

It's worth noting that Pope Francis has previously voiced strong opposition to gender ideology, calling it "grotesque" as it erases, in his words, the distinctions between men and women. Despite his critical stance on gender theory, he also offers pastoral support to transgender Catholics. The Pontiff has met with a group of transgender Catholics from Torvaianica, south of Rome, regularly inviting them to dine at the Vatican alongside 1,200 marginalized and homeless individuals, even seating them in the front row during one of these audiences.

The Vatican's doctrinal office, currently led by Pope Francis's close ally Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez of Argentina, recently allowed transgender individuals to act as godparents during baptisms and as witnesses during weddings. This marks a change from the 2015 decision, when the Vatican stated that transgender individuals could not serve as godparents.

The published 20-page document took five years to prepare and underwent various changes to address "serious violations of human dignity in our time" and the Pope's teachings in this area. Alongside addressing gender issues, the document also covers "a series of threats to human dignity," including poverty, the death penalty, war, euthanasia, abortions, sexual violence, and the harsh treatment of women.