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In a discreet meeting held at Prague’s Mozart Hotel, 21 Catholic bishops including nine cardinals from several continents convened to discuss “Gender ideology, science and the nature of divine revelation.”
The discussion, organised by the Austin Institute for the Study of Family and Culture, delved into topics surrounding gender theory’s perceived threat to Christian values and family structures.
Notable figures in attendance included Cardinals Virgilio Do Carmo da Silva (Timor-Leste), Oswald Gracias (India), William Goh (Singapore) and Patrick D’Rozario (Bangladesh).
Among the European cardinals were Willem Eijk (Netherlands), Angelo Bagnasco (Italy) and Dominik Duka (Czech Republic). Also joining them were several African and American prelates including Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone (San Francisco, USA).
Despite attempts to keep discussion of gender ideology under wraps, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja (Nigeria) inadvertently revealed details on his Facebook page.
The programme, not publicly disclosed by the Austin Institute, included talks by prominent figures such as Robert Gahl, a priest of Opus Dei and Cardinal Willem Eijk of Utrecht who cautioned against the implications of gender theory on family and faith.
The Austin Institute’s president, Mark Regnerus, confirmed its role in organising and sponsoring the event, describing it as an “intellectual retreat”.
However, details regarding funding sources and participant selection remained undisclosed.
Same-sex blessings controversy
Meanwhile, in an interview with the Italian magazine Credere, Pope Francis addressed the controversy surrounding blessings for same-sex couples. Emphasising the importance of respecting all individuals, the pontiff clarified “I don’t bless a ‘homosexual marriage,’ I bless two people who love each other.”
His remarks shed light on the pastoral approach outlined in the document “Fiducia Supplicans,” permitting informal blessings for gay couples without endorsing their union.
Despite criticism and societal expectations, Pope Francis reaffirmed his commitment to extending blessings to all, regardless of their circumstances.
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