In Pope Francis, Marriage, and Same-Sex Civil Unions: Foundations for the Organic Development of Catholic Sexual Doctrine, Todd A. Salzman and Michael G. Lawler argue for the organic development of Catholic sexual teaching to recognize the morality and sacramentality of opposite-sex and same-sex marriage. They do so on the basis of Pope Francis' support of the legal protection of same-sex civil unions, "new pastoral methods," theological anthropological, and ethical methodological developments. To that end, the authors consider the historical development in the Catholic tradition of sexual and marital ethics; the impact of virtue ethics, emphasis on the authority and inviolability of an informed conscience, and a revised understanding of sexual complementarity on defining human dignity and the method for doing Catholic ethics; the sacramental nature of opposite-sex marriage as an upper-case Sacrament and same-sex marriage as a lower-case sacrament; the widespread and growing phenomenon of cohabitation before marriage where couples grow into the ideal of marriage; and sociological and experiential data that supports the overwhelming positive impact on children of opposite-sex and same-sex parents. All of these issues are considered in the light of the theological and pastoral changes that Pope Francis is introducing, with widespread support and minority opposition, into the Catholic tradition.
Todd A. Salzman is Amelia and Emil Graff Chair Professor of Catholic Theology at Creighton University. Michael G. Lawler is Amelia and Emil Graff Chair Professor Emeritus of Catholic Theology and Dean Emeritus of the Graduate School at Creighton University.
Michael G. Lawler and Todd A. Salzman are two of the most talented moral theologians working today, and their work on LGBTQ issues has been pioneering. --James Martin, author of "Building a Bridge" Theologically authoritative and compassionately driven, the book makes a clear and convincing case for the continuing reform of Catholic sexual teaching, especially with regard to same-sex unions and parenting. Drawing on Pope Francis' pastoral insights and innovative theological methods, the authors make a clear and convincing case for further reform. While intended for a Catholic readership, the emphasis on the need for doctrinal and moral change, and how it happens, make it essential reading for Christians in all the churches. --Adrian Thatcher, University of Exeter, UK
