Same-Sex Marriage

Same-sex marriage is a union that the Catholic Church cannot recognize as a valid sacrament because marriage is, by divine design, the union of one man and one woman (CCC 1601, 2357). The marital covenant is ordered toward the procreation and education of offspring and the mutual good of the spouses (CCC 1601).

Complementarity and Procreation

The Church teaches that sexual difference and complementarity are essential to marriage. Because same-sex unions are not capable of the 'one flesh' union that leads to procreation, they do not meet the essential requirements of marriage (CCC 2333, 2357).

Frequently Asked Questions

How should persons with same-sex attractions be treated? They must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity, and every sign of unjust discrimination should be avoided (CCC 2358).