FutureChurch stands with our LGBTQ+ siblings who are failed and harmed by Vatican document, Dignitas Infinita

On Monday, April 8, 2024, the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of Faith released a declaration on human dignity entitled Dignitas Infinita (Infinity Dignity). Meant to affirm the inherent and inalienable dignity of each human person and defend their rights and freedoms, the declaration tragically fails the LGBTQ+ community – particularly transgender, nonbinary, and other gender diverse people – by clinging to long-outdated and harmful ideas of gender essentialism that particularly dismiss their lived experiences.

We are alarmed that – despite the Vatican’s denunciation of “unjust discrimination” and “particularly any form of aggression and violence” –  the declaration inflicts real spiritual and psychological harm and perpetuates ideas and attitudes that create and foster physically and legally dangerous environments for our already vulnerable siblings.

Particularly offensive is the document’s assertion that those who seek to better understand their gender identity or pursue gender-affirming care “make oneself God.” This is not the lived experience of transgender persons, who authentically strive – despite much resistance from Church and society – to discern and live into the fullness of their humanity as part of God’s diverse and beloved creation.

To the LGBTQ+ community, particularly those who are transgender or non-binary: know that you are a beloved child of God and an equal member of the Body of Christ. You are, in fact, beautiful manifestations of God’s fullness and glory. FutureChurch affirms and celebrates you and the gifts and witness you offer to our world and our church. We are blessed by you, and we stand with you as we seek a church that finally and truly welcomes you as God created you and a church that will stand up for and defend your rights and infinite dignity.

To that end, we wish to lift up the critiques offered by our friends and partners at DignityUSA and New Ways Ministry. And we encourage the FutureChurch community to read and share these important and powerful statements and stand in solidarity with these prophetic organizations.

To friends, family, and allies of the LGBTQ+ community: we know that you are impacted by this declaration too. We invite you to educate and empower yourself to support and advocate for your loved ones using the helpful resources and suggestions these organizations have compiled on their websites here (DignityUSA) and here (New Ways Ministry).