Originally published at National Catholic Register
Regarding the treatment of people struggling with gender dysphoria, Bishop Rhoades recommends a compassionate response that does not involve life-altering surgeries or sterilizing drugs
The Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Indiana, released guidelines on Sept.12 affirming that diocesan schools and institutes must practice the Church’s teaching on sexuality and gender while being compassionate toward those struggling with gender dysphoria.
Bishop Kevin Rhoades notes in the policy that all diocesan institutes must use pronouns that align with a student’s biological sex. The policy does not permit the use of “‘preferred pronouns” in any capacity.
It further requires that students use the uniforms and bathrooms that match their biological “God-given sexual identity” and attend single-sex sports and programs that match their biological sex as well.
The 11-page document, approved earlier this month by Bishop Rhoades, also prohibits “public advocacy for, or celebration of, sexual behavior or ideologies contrary to the teachings of the Catholic Church.”
“Active, hostile, and public defiance of these teachings is prohibited since it is harmful to the institution’s Catholic identity and mission,” Bishop Rhoades writes.
Regarding the treatment of people struggling with gender dysphoria, Bishop Rhoades recommends a compassionate response that does not involve life-altering surgeries or
