Bishops support document on homosexuality

The Maltese bishops have expressed full support for the document issued by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith which they said confirmed the Church's teaching that due respect for homosexuals could not lead in any way to approval of homosexual behaviour or to the legal recognition of unions between such couples.

"This document presents priceless teachings towards safeguarding and strengthening the dignity of marriage, the foundation of the family and the stability of society," the bishops said.

The Archbishop, Mgr Joseph Mercieca, the Bishop of Gozo, Mgr Nikol Cauchi and Auxiliary Bishop Annetto Depasquale said that unions between homosexual couples could not be placed on the same level as marriage before the law. "Laws should recognise, safeguard and promote the marriage between one man and one woman as the basis of the family." They said the Church could not fail to continue defending the values of marriage and the family according to the plan of God, for the good of men and women and for the good of society.

"Whoever wants to lead an honest life has to accept God's law and abide by it, not interpret or change it according to his or her personal inclinations. This is a general principle which holds not only in sexual behaviour but in all ethical matters."

They said the document was also intended to give direction to Catholic politicians by indicating the approaches to proposed legislation in this area which would be consistent with Christian conscience.

"We would also like to point out that, as the whole issue relates to the natural moral law, the arguments the document presents are addressed not only to those who believe in Christ, but to all people committed to promoting and defending the common good of society," the bishops said.