THE VATICAN (WKZO) — Pope Francis has issued a 256-page message called “The Joy of Love” that doesn’t change how the church feels when it comes to love and marriage, but it does call for more acceptance and forgiveness for gays, divorced Catholics and contraceptives.
The Pope still rejects gay marriage and divorce, but calls on the faithful to look into their own consciences rather than rely exclusively on church rules.
Kalamazoo Bishop Paul Bradley calls it a “rich and beautiful” document from a father to his family offering practical wisdom while affirming church teachings.
While it doesn’t change church doctrine, some papal analysts say it may be a first step in that direction.
