| 4.1.14 - Human Sexuality | 4.1.14 - Human Sexuality | <div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><strong>S</strong><strong>ummary Statement</strong></span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Formed in the light of Christ, the archdiocesan approach to human sexuality celebrates the truth that each person is a gift, called to make a gift of self in love. Through faith-filled education and compassionate accompaniment, archdiocesan parishes, schools, and ministries, proclaim a message that unites truth and mercy: Every person belongs. Every person is loved. Every person is made for God, in His image and likeness. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><strong>1. Introduction</strong></span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The Church invites all who share in the ministry of education and formation—parents, pastors, teachers, catechists, and youth ministers—to accompany young people and adults in discovering the beauty and sacred meaning of human sexuality.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Grounded in the dignity of every human person, created in the image and likeness of God, the archdiocesan approach flows from Christian anthropology. Christian anthropology teaches that the human person is an integrated body and soul, called to communion, love, and giving of oneself as created out of love by God, fallen as result of original sin, and redeemed through the incarnation, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, who perfectly reveals what it means to be human and offers restoration, making it possible for humans to live in communion with God. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Parents and guardians serve as the first educators of their children in these truths (cf. </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>Gravissimum Educationi</em>s</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, 3). Catholic ministries, parishes, and schools, collaborate with parents in nurturing an atmosphere where young people learn to respect themselves and others as temples of the Holy Spirit (cf. 1 Corinthians 6:19).</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">In a society that often distorts or diminishes the meaning of the human body and sexuality, the Church proposes a way that is both truthful and compassionate which recognizes that human sexuality is not only biological or emotional, but deeply spiritual — a gift through which we learn to make a sincere gift of self (cf. </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><em>Gaudium et Spes</em></span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">, 24).</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Parishes, schools, and other ministries, strive to cultivate a culture of belonging — one that welcomes all people, accompanies them in their growth, and upholds the dignity of every person on a journey toward conversion in Christ.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"></span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><strong>2. The Catholic Understanding to Human Sexuality</strong></span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The Catholic understanding of human sexuality integrates faith and reason, natural law, moral truth and pastoral care. See the </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Catechism of the Catholic Church</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> (CCC 2331–2400) and the </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Directory for Catechesis</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> (nos. 373–378).</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The Church teaches that every person is created and willed by God as either male or female and that “the importance and the meaning of sexual difference, as a reality deeply inscribed in man and woman… ‘is a fundamental component of personality, one of its modes of being, of manifestation, of communicating with others, of feeling, of expressing and of living human love.’ ” (</span><a href="https://www.usccb.org/resources/Doctrinal%20Note%202023-03-20.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">USCCB-Doctrinal Note on the moral limits to technology manipulation of the human body. (2023)</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Every person—regardless of background, experience, sexual orientation or personal struggle—has a place in the community of faith. The Church teaches that those experiencing same-sex attraction are to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion (</span><a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/catechism/en/part_three/section_two/chapter_two/article_6/ii_the_vocation_to_chastity.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">CCC 2358</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">), while at the same time teaching that all persons are called to chastity and to growth in virtue through friendship, prayer, and participation in the sacramental life. When sexuality is separated from its unitive and life-giving meaning, it distorts God’s design for human flourishing, resulting in harm to the human person on multiple levels (physically, emotionally, psychologically, socially). </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The Church also teaches that those who are not married are called to reserve for marriage the expressions of affection that belong to sacramental married love. All the baptized, regardless of vocation or life circumstance, are called to chastity, which the Church defines as “the successful integration of sexuality within the person” (</span><a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/catechism/en/part_three/section_two/chapter_two/article_6/ii_the_vocation_to_chastity.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">CCC 2337</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">). Chastity enables authentic freedom and self-mastery, allowing love to be expressed in a way that is faithful, fruitful, and life-giving.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Because sexuality is a gift from God, it is inherently good and finds its fullness within the loving, faithful, and life-giving covenant of marriage between one man and one woman. Within that union, spouses participate in God’s creative love, reflecting Christ’s total self-giving to His Church. (</span><a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/ephesians/5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">cf. Ephesians 5:25–32</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">). </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Accordingly, whether in thoughts, language, or deeds, lust, masturbation, fornication, adultery, prostitution, pornography, inappropriate sexual language, harassment, rape, sexual abuse, coercion, assault, and similar conduct involve a disregard for the call to chastity and harm both individuals and relationships. The Church names these realities in order to invite persons to healing and conversion in Christ.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div class="SCXW13887986 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Pornography, sexting and other sexual use of social media, AI, and other technologies immerse all who are involved in the illusion of a fantasy world. They offend against the moral norms of chastity because they pervert genuine sexual acts. They cause emotional and psychological harm while also doing grave injury to the dignity of self and person (see </span><a href="http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P85.HTM" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2354</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">).</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Sexual activity that is unwelcome, that threatens or harms an individual or involves any misconduct by a youth or an adult toward another person, not only violates these moral standards, but also may be unlawful under civil law. Sexual misconduct, whether it occurs in the school, church, home, or elsewhere, may be subject to </span><a href="/_layouts/15/FIXUPREDIRECT.ASPX?WebId=7c52c6b6-eea1-4fc3-ac3a-90f0c442a28e&TermSetId=8b66c3a8-bdfa-4bea-9c29-07c09bf9129e&TermId=a1080440-d25b-4232-afde-403cd6295474" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">mandatory reporting laws</span></span><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink"></span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> and can subject youth and adults to criminal sanctions. In certain circumstances, sexual conduct, even if it is apparently consensual, must be reported and can have criminal implications if one of the participants is not yet 18 or may be a vulnerable adult. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Any sexual activity involving minors or vulnerable persons constitutes both a grave sin and a violation of law. Such acts must be reported and addressed according to Archdiocesan </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Safeguard the Children</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> policies and California law.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">For more information, see </span><a href="/_layouts/15/FIXUPREDIRECT.ASPX?WebId=7c52c6b6-eea1-4fc3-ac3a-90f0c442a28e&TermSetId=8b66c3a8-bdfa-4bea-9c29-07c09bf9129e&TermId=3ceefd3c-3f58-42a1-9fbf-9801e2eec8ae" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">Safe Environment</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><strong>3. Formation in Chaste Living </strong></span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Formation in chaste living is a lifelong journey of discipleship. It helps all people understand who they are in the light of God’s plan: a beloved son or daughter whose body and soul together express divine purpose.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Education in this area integrates intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth, enabling individuals to see that their bodies are not objects to be used, but temples of the Holy Spirit, capable of expressing authentic love.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Educational formation should:</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><ul><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="%1." data-listid="14" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":0,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769242":[65533,0],"469777803":"left","469777804":"%1.","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Affirm the dignity of the human person</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> — helping students recognize sexuality as a sacred gift expressing God’s design and human relationships.</span> <span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></li></ul></div><div><ul><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="%1." data-listid="14" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":0,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769242":[65533,0],"469777803":"left","469777804":"%1.","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Promote chastity and self-mastery</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> — enabling freedom to love authentically and responsibly.</span> <span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></li></ul></div><div><ul><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="%1." data-listid="14" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":0,"335559685":720,"335559991":360,"469769242":[65533,0],"469777803":"left","469777804":"%1.","469777815":"multilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Integrate faith and reason</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> — helping individuals see how moral truths and natural law flow from the call to communion with God and others.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></li></ul></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The process begins at home. Parents, through ongoing dialogue and example, introduce their children to the beauty of love, the goodness of their bodies, and the meaning of relationships. Catholic educators, pastors, and catechists complement this witness by providing accurate, age-appropriate, and doctrinally sound instruction that encourages openness to God’s plan and respect for all people. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">All school and parish programs must align with the guidance provided in the USCCB document </span><a href="https://www.usccb.org/upload/chaste-living.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">Catechetical Formation in Chaste Living: Guidelines for Curriculum Design and Publication</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"></span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><strong>4. Educational Framework and Implementation</strong></span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Programs and courses in human sexuality must be holistic, positive in their approach, and based on the fundamental truth that all human life is created in God's image and has inestimable value. Teachers and catechists should be people of mature faith and integrity, modeling what they teach. They should exemplify virtue, integrity, and authentic love in their conduct and relationships. In all they do, Catholic educators “must consider the totality of the person and insist therefore on the integration of the biological, psycho-affective, social, and spiritual elements.” (Congregation for Catholic Education, 2019). </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">All instruction in Catholic schools and parish programs must:</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="11" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":1080,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Be faithful to the </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Magisterium</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> and the </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Catechism of the Catholic Church</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></li></ul></div><div><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="11" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":1080,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Use language that is respectful, and pastorally sensitive</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></li></ul></div><div><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="11" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":1080,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Reflect the archdiocesan commitment to a culture of belonging and safeguarding</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></li></ul></div><div><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="11" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":1080,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="4" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Use materials and resources that are age appropriate and conform to Catholic values</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></li></ul></div></div><div class="SCXW13887986 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><div><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="11" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,"335559685":1080,"335559991":360,"469769226":"Symbol","469769242":[8226],"469777803":"left","469777804":"","469777815":"hybridMultilevel"}" data-aria-posinset="5" data-aria-level="1" role="listitem"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Encourage dialogue, critical thinking, and moral discernment rooted in Scripture and Catholic tradition</span> <span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></li></ul></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Parents and guardians have the right to review materials used in sexuality education and, if they discern it necessary, to request that their child be excused from specific sessions, consistent with </span><a href="/_layouts/15/FIXUPREDIRECT.ASPX?WebId=7c52c6b6-eea1-4fc3-ac3a-90f0c442a28e&TermSetId=8b66c3a8-bdfa-4bea-9c29-07c09bf9129e&TermId=f17a1493-19bb-43d1-91bd-770c4f1b26c5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">Archdiocesan policy</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Department of Catholic Schools</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> and </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Office of Religious Education</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"> will provide guidance, approved curriculum resources, and professional formation opportunities for educators implementing these programs upon request</span><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US">.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"></span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"><strong>5. Policy guidance on Special Circumstances</strong></span><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"> </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">In an effort to seek ways to respond to circumstances related to sexual morality, the Church's teachings uphold the integration of Divine order and the body and soul unity within these morals. It cautions that certain secular approaches do not respect the fundamental Divine order and yet appear to offer solutions. To rely on such approaches for solutions, however, is a mistake (</span><a href="https://www.usccb.org/resources/Doctrinal%20Note%202023-03-20.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">USCCB Doctrinal Note -2023</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">) as the disaggregation of these elements is an effort to empower the will, instill a false sense of freedom, and remove the divine.</span></p></div></div><ul><li><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US" style="color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"> <em>Pregnancy Involving Students or Minors</em></span><span data-ccp-props="{}" style="color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"> </span></li></ul><div class="SCXW13887986 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US"></span></p></div></div><blockquote style="margin:0px 0px 0px 40px;border-width:medium;border-style:none;border-color:currentcolor;padding:0px;"><div class="SCXW13887986 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">When minors experience pregnancy, the Christian response is first and foremost one of </span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">compassion, accompaniment, and hope</span><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">. The mother, father, and unborn child are each created in God’s image and must be treated with dignity, sensitivity, and care.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div></div><div class="SCXW13887986 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The school or parish community, guided by pastoral leadership, should provide ongoing support that affirms the dignity of both the parent(s) and the unborn child, while seeking to ensure educational continuity and emotional well-being.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div></div><div class="SCXW13887986 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">School leaders should meet with the student(s) and their families to discern together how best to continue schooling and faith formation in a way that safeguards health, safety, and privacy. Support services, counseling, and referrals consistent with Catholic teaching should be offered generously.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> <span style="color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;">In every circumstance, the Church stands firmly for life. While abortion, contraception, or other actions contrary to the sanctity of life cannot be condoned, the pastoral approach must remain merciful and supportive, helping each person encounter the healing and redemptive love of Christ.</span></span></p></div></blockquote><ul><li><span style="background-color:#ffffff;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><em>Gender Identity</em></span></li></ul><blockquote style="margin:0px 0px 0px 40px;border-width:medium;border-style:none;border-color:currentcolor;padding:0px;"><div class="SCXW13887986 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><p><span data-ccp-props="{}"></span></p></div></blockquote><blockquote style="margin:0px 0px 0px 40px;border-width:medium;border-style:none;border-color:currentcolor;padding:0px;"><div class="SCXW13887986 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Rooted in the Catholic understanding that each person is created in the image and likeness of God and is loved unconditionally by Him, and in a spirit of Christian charity, dignity, and pastoral accompaniment and compassion, the Church addresses gender identity issues by inviting person(s) to embrace their God-given sexual identity as the foundation for authentic human flourishing.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559685":0,"335559731":0,"469777462":[720],"469777927":[0],"469777928":[0]}"> </span></p></div></blockquote><blockquote style="margin:0px 0px 0px 40px;border-width:medium;border-style:none;border-color:currentcolor;padding:0px;"><div class="SCXW13887986 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">In its response, the parish and/or school must ensure that every person is treated with respect, compassion, sensitivity, and care, avoiding all forms of unjust discrimination, harassment, or bullying, consistent with the Catechism of the Catholic Church (</span><a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/catechism/en/part_three/section_two/chapter_two/article_6/ii_the_vocation_to_chastity.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><span data-contrast="none" lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">cf. CCC </span><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">2358</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">). Individuals and families can expect a pastoral approach that is patient, prayerful, and engages in charitable dialogue.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div></div></blockquote><blockquote style="margin:0px 0px 0px 40px;border-width:medium;border-style:none;border-color:currentcolor;padding:0px;"><div class="SCXW13887986 BCX0" style="margin:0px;padding:0px;color:#000000;font-family:"segoe ui", "segoe ui web", arial, verdana, sans-serif;font-size:12px;background-color:#ffffff;"><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Any policies regarding gender identity must adhere to the following guidelines:</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p></div></div></blockquote><div><div><p></p><p></p><blockquote style="margin:0px 0px 0px 40px;border-width:medium;border-style:none;border-color:currentcolor;padding:0px;"><ul><li><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Students enrolled in Catholic schools or parish programs who struggle with gender identity concerns shall be treated with sensitivity, respect, and compassion. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559685":990,"335559991":270}"> </span></p></li><li><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">All curricular and extra-curricular activity is to be consistent with the principles of Catholic doctrine. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559685":990,"335559991":270}"> <br></span></p></li><li><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">Catholic schools, parishes, and ministries, and individuals employed by them, shall not sponsor, facilitate or host outside organizations, events or activities that would promote views contrary to Catholic doctrine regarding human sexuality and gender, either on or off the school campus, or through social media. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559685":990,"335559991":270}"> </span></p></li></ul></blockquote><p></p><p></p></div></div><blockquote style="margin:0px 0px 0px 40px;border-width:medium;border-style:none;border-color:currentcolor;padding:0px;"><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">In the case of a specific request related to gender identity, parishes, schools and church ministries, will prayerfully and compassionately consider the circumstances on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual well-being of all those involved, while remaining faithful to Catholic teaching and the mission of the school. Consideration may include the following questions: </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p></p><ul><li><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">What is the student's and/or parent(s)' specific request? </span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559685":990,"335559991":540}"> </span></p></li><li><p><span data-ccp-props="{"335559685":990,"335559991":540}"></span>Can the request be addressed in a manner that upholds the teachings, mission, and pastoral values of the Catholic Church as expressed in the Catechism and magisterial guidance of the Catholic Church?<span data-ccp-props="{"335559685":990,"335559991":540}"> </span></p></li><li><p><span data-ccp-props="{"335559685":990,"335559991":540}"></span>Is the school reasonably able to accommodate the request? <span data-ccp-props="{"335559685":990,"335559991":540}"> <br></span></p></li></ul><strong>Note:</strong> School principals and/or parish religious education directors: consult with their regional superintendent or regional coordinator and the <a href="https://lacatholics.org/departments-ministries/legal-counsel/">Office of Legal Counsel</a> on all issues related to gender identity concerns.<span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span><p></p></blockquote><div><div><p><span data-contrast="auto" lang="EN-US">The <a href="https://lacatholics.org/departments-ministries/department-of-catholic-schools/">Department of Catholic Schools</a>, the <a href="https://lacatholics.org/departments-ministries/religious-education/">Office of Religious Education</a>, the <a href="https://lacatholics.org/departments-ministries/office-of-life-justice-and-peace/">Office of Life, Justice, and Peace,</a> and The <a href="https://lacatholics.org/departments-ministries/protecting-children/">Victims Assistance Ministry</a>, can assist in identifying resources for pastoral care, family support, and accompaniment for these unique pastoral circumstances upon request. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p><p><span data-ccp-props="{}">For more information and catechetical formation refer to t</span>he list of
<a target="_blank" href="/Handbook%20Resources/foundational_documents.pdf">foundational documents on human sexuality</a>.</p></div></div><p>1-22-2022, 4-29-2022, 7-23-2026<br><br></p> |
