In the wake of the recent High Court ruling that decriminalised consensual same-sex relations in Saint Lucia, the Archdiocese of Castries has issued a formal response grounded in the teachings of the Catholic Church, calling for both compassion and moral clarity.
Archbishop of Castries, Most Reverend Gabriel Malzaire, acknowledged the dignity of all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation.
The Archbishop emphasised the Church’s firm stance against any form of violence, hatred, or discrimination directed at persons who experience same-sex attraction. However, he also reaffirmed the Church’s doctrinal position on sexual activity outside the sacrament of marriage between a man and a woman.
“According to the consistent teaching of sacred scriptures and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “sexual acts outside the bond of sacramental marriage between one man and one woman, including homosexual acts, are morally disordered as they are not open to the gift of life, nor do they reflect the full meaning of conjugal love intended by God.”
He made it clear that while the ruling may change the legal landscape, it does not alter the Church’s moral framework.
“Legal permissibility does not determine moral acceptability. The decriminalisation of buggery reflects a legal decision about privacy and personal freedom, but does not change the Church's understanding of the moral order.”
Quoting directly from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Malzaire reminded the faithful that “homosexual persons are called to chastity. By the virtue of self-mastery, they can and should gradually and resolutely approach Christian perfection” (CCC 2359).
Despite doctrinal differences, the Archbishop extended a message of inclusion: “The Church remains committed to welcoming all persons and to providing them with pastoral care, spiritual guidance, and the support they need to live in accordance with God's plan for human sexuality.”
The Archbishop concluded with a prayerful appeal: “Let us continue to proclaim the gospel of truth and love and pray that our society may always uphold the dignity of every person while remaining faithful to the moral values that sustain healthy families and communities.”