Q. Can a Catholic disagree with Church teaching, say on same-sex marriage, and still be a good Catholic?
A. Really good question. Thank you for asking it.
In Matthew 16:17-19; Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:15, John 20:23, Luke 22:19, Galatians 1:18, Acts 15, Jesus clearly establishes His Church upon Peter, the apostles and their successors (the pope and Catholic bishops) and gave them the authority to teach in His name. This Church is the Catholic Church—the only one true church in the world.
Matters of faith and morals that have been and continue to be taught authoritatively and definitively require adherence by the faithful. These are dogmatic teachings and cannot admit of change or exception in their substance. We are bound to obey these teachings of the Church. The Catechism of the Catholic Church, first published in 1992, does an exceptional job of outlining the teachings of the Catholic Church. If you do not have a copy of the Catechism, I strongly encourage you to get one and to inform yourself as to the beliefs and practices of the Church. Or, read the Catechism at the vatican website, or the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops website.
Examples of dogmatic Catholic Church teaching include: Jesus is truly present Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity in the Eucharist; abortion is always and everywhere wrong; and marriage is only between one man and one woman.
Unfortunately, the media, commentators, and others have done a good job of confusing Catholics, and years of poor catechesis have resulted in what some Catholics think they believe rather than the Truth itself. Authoritative and definitive dogmatic teachings, which would include that same-sex marriage is impossible, require belief and adherence from all Catholics.
I would also like to point out the illogical argument of: “I disagree with the Church.” Let’s try to follow a line of reasoning. 1.) Jesus established His Church on Peter and the apostles. 2.) Jesus is God. 3.) “I disagree with the Church.” Therefore, when we say “I disagree with the Church,” then we are saying we disagree with God. To me, that is a fundamental problem of faith.
That being said, I encourage anyone who has difficulty with the teachings of the Church to discuss these issues with the local parish priest or someone knowledgeable in these subjects rather than walking away angry. There are excellent resources available in print and online. One of my favorites is Catholic Answers Live on Catholic radio. The frequencies in the state of Nebraska are at the end of this article.
Also, Ignatius Press is a very good Catholic book publisher which has many good books on the basics of Catholicism. Visit www.ignatius.com to browse their site.
I have had many encounters in my priesthood with people who have problems with some of the teachings of the Church. I know most priests would be willing to talk through these difficulties. So much of the New Testament records people in huge numbers coming out to listen to the Lord teach. The same should be true of us. Don’t leave; rather, seek out the Truth. You might find that many difficulties are not deal-breakers in your relationship with the Church.
I am very glad that you asked this question. Thank you.
The Catholic radio frequencies in Nebraska are 102.7 FM in Omaha/Lincoln/Council Bluffs; 88.3 FM in northeast Nebraska; 91.5 FM in Central Nebraska; 90.1 FM in North Platte; 89.3-FM in Chadron; 99.3-FM in Columbus; 95.1-FM in Scottsbluff/Gering; 103.9-FM in Alliance; 107.5-FM in Sidney; 104.3-FM in Imperial; 96.9-FM in McCook; 106.5-FM in Holdrege; 102.5-FM in York and 100.1-FM in Beatrice.
This question was answered by a priest of the Diocese of Lincoln. Write to Ask the Register using our online form, or write to 3700 Sheridan Blvd., Suite 10, Lincoln NE 68506-6100. All questions are subject to editing. Editors decide which questions to publish. Personal questions cannot be answered. People with such questions are urged to take them to their nearest Catholic priest.
