Just a little more on Same-Sex issues and Sr. Margaret Farley

I thank the two Michaels (Perry and Scaperlanda) once again for bringing us to an urgent discussion on same-sex issues that continue to embroil our nation and our world. I also thank Rob and Tom for their contributions on this critical matter.

In his response to Michael S., Michael P. relies on the works of Dr. and Sister Margaret Farley, RSM to reinforce his position—in particular her most recent book “Just Love”. As some MOJ readers and contributors may recall, I have offered a few thoughts on Dr. Farley’s work in the past. [HERE and HERE] Since December of last year when I last commented on Dr. Farley, I have read additional works she has authored that predate “Just Love” including her work “Personal Commitments.” After reading these additional works she has penned, I submit that her writings reflect more the views of the Metropolitan Community Church and the Unitarian Universalist Society on matters dealing with same-sex issues than they do the teachings of the Catholic Church. In fairness to her, I acknowledge her own self-disclosures about her disagreements with the Church’s teachings. But it is also clear that she departs from many other Church teachings when she addresses questions that include abortion, contraception, and bio-technology issues.

I am in no position to do anything but to pray for her and those whom she has influenced over the years. I also pray that her misleading sway will not be accepted as Catholic teachings by the faithful as the debates on same-sex marriage/unions and on other questions on which she has written intensify.

RJA sj