Rachel Evans
The idea of a progressive Catholic is considered an oxymoron by some, who argue that the Catholic Church is a reactionary oppressive entity with a history of complicity in child abuse and opposition to laws designed to protect children. However, others argue that the perception of Catholicism as being at odds with progressivism is socially and historically constructed, pointing to examples of Christians who have been at the forefront of progressive social change, such as Tommy Douglas, the father of Medicare, and Pierre Trudeau, who was instrumental in branding Canada as a multicultural country. The tension between liberalism and Catholicism is particularly evident in controversies surrounding the ordination of women, same-sex marriage, and abortion rights.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Progressive Christians are fighting for the soul of progressive Canadians | Progressive Christians are fighting for the soul of progressive Canadians |
| Progressive and Christian are two terms that many people believe should not be used together | Many people believe that the religion is politically irredeemable |
| Progressive Christians are perpetuating the existence of conservative Christians | Progressive Christians foster resentment from conservative Christians |
| Progressive Christians are viewed as being at odds with feminism | Christians have often been at the forefront of progressive social change |
| Progressive Christians are viewed as being at odds with LGBTQ+ rights | Progressive Christians do not believe LGBTQ+ people should be murdered |
| Progressive Christians are viewed as being complicit in child abuse | Progressive Christians do not believe the country needs to be run based on the Bible |
| Progressive Christians are viewed as being against abortion | Progressive Christians support abortion |
| Progressive Christians are viewed as being against individual rights, liberal tolerance and cultural diversity | Progressive Christians support individual rights, liberal tolerance and cultural diversity |
| Progressive Christians are viewed as being against social liberalism | Progressive Christians support social liberalism |
| Progressive Christians are viewed as being against atheism | Progressive Christians support atheism |
| Progressive Christians are viewed as being against feminism | Progressive Christians support feminism |
| Progressive Christians are viewed as being against the sexual revolution | Progressive Christians support the sexual revolution |
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What You'll Learn
Progressive Catholics and social change
Catholics have been at the forefront of progressive social change throughout history. For example, Tommy Douglas, a Baptist socialist, founded Canada's New Democratic Party, and Pierre Trudeau, a liberal Catholic, was instrumental in shaping Canada's multicultural identity. These individuals challenged the notion that Catholicism and progressivism are mutually exclusive.
However, the Catholic Church has also been criticised for its complicity in allowing child abuse and its stance on certain social issues, such as same-sex marriage and abortion. These controversies have led some to question the compatibility of Catholicism with progressive ideals, particularly in the modern era.
There is a perception that Catholicism and progressivism are at odds, particularly in the Canadian context. This perception has been influenced by the alignment of the Christian Right with conservative politics in the United States, as well as the view that Catholicism is incompatible with feminism. As a result, progressive Catholics often find themselves caught between two worlds, facing backlash from both traditional Catholics and those who see Catholicism as inherently regressive.
Despite these challenges, there are those who argue that Catholics can embrace progressivism by focusing on issues such as social justice, the environment, immigration, and the plight of the poor and working class. Pope Francis, for instance, has encouraged Catholics to be multi-issue advocates, promoting the common good and addressing the needs of the marginalised.
In conclusion, while the term "progressive Catholic" may seem like an oxymoron to some, there is a rich history of Catholics driving progressive social change. The tension between Catholicism and progressivism is complex and multifaceted, and it continues to shape the religious and political landscape, particularly in countries with strong Catholic traditions.
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Progressive Catholics and feminism
Progressive Catholics believe that the term "progressive" is associated with progress toward something better. They argue that Christianity has often been at the forefront of progressive social change. For instance, Tommy Douglas, the father of Medicare, was a Baptist socialist who founded the Co-operative Commonwealth Confederation, which eventually became the New Democratic Party. Pierre Trudeau, who was instrumental in shaping Canada's multicultural identity, was a liberal Catholic, as is his son, Justin Trudeau, the current Prime Minister of Canada.
However, the alignment of the Christian Right with the Republican Party in the United States has led to the public perception of Christianity being at odds with social progress and feminism. This has resulted in progressive Christians feeling that their religion is politically irredeemable.
Despite these challenges, progressive Catholics continue to advocate for social justice and feminism. They emphasize the Gospel mandate "to love one another as oneself," challenging Christians to expand their political positions beyond issues of sexuality. Progressive Catholics support policies that address the needs of the marginalized, such as the poorest members of society and those suffering from decisions made by those in power.
Catholic feminism, in particular, seeks to affirm the dignity and well-being of women. It focuses on eliminating unfair barriers that prevent women from reaching their potential and serving the common good. This includes addressing issues such as underrepresentation, violence against women, domestic violence, and trafficking of women. Catholic feminists also advocate for pro-family policies, such as increasing access to quality, affordable childcare and promoting work-life balance.
While there are tensions between Catholicism and feminism, particularly around issues like contraception and abortion, Catholic feminists strive to reconcile their faith with their commitment to equality and social justice. They believe that Catholicism, at its core, upholds the fundamental equality and dignity of all human beings, regardless of gender or other demographic traits.
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Progressive Catholics and LGBTQ+ rights
Official Church Teachings and Policies
Officially, the Catholic Church does not consider same-sex attraction as sinful but maintains that acting upon these attractions is a grave sin against chastity. The Church does not recognize or perform sacramental marriages between same-sex couples. However, the Vatican has stated that individuals with homosexual tendencies must be treated with respect, compassion, and sensitivity, and all forms of unjust discrimination should be avoided. The Church has also recently released a document outlining the inclusion of transgender people in Catholic sacraments, a reversal of its previous stance.
Progressive Catholic Voices
There are progressive Catholics who actively support LGBTQ+ rights and work to change the rhetoric within the Church and broader society. Organizations such as DignityUSA and Fortunate Families advocate for respect, justice, and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals within the Church. Additionally, some Catholic bishops and priests have made their own decisions regarding the inclusion of gay men in the priesthood, and there have been notable gay Catholic writers, artists, and activists throughout history.
Criticism and Controversy
The Catholic Church has faced criticism and controversy due to its historical intolerance of LGBTQ+ rights and its alignment with far-right organizations and parties, particularly in countries like Poland and Slovakia. This has led to serious consequences, such as the establishment of "LGBT-Free Zones" in Poland. While the Church has made some moves towards inclusion, such as Pope Francis' support for civil unions for same-sex couples, these changes may not be welcomed or followed in all places due to the Church's entrenched doctrines on sex and gender.
Progressive Catholics and Social Change
Progressives argue that Christians, including Catholics, have been at the forefront of social progress throughout history. For example, Pierre Trudeau, a liberal Catholic, played a significant role in shaping Canada's multiculturalism. However, the perception of antipathy between "progressive" and "Christian" or "Catholic" is socially and historically constructed, influenced by the alignment of the Christian Right with conservative politics in the United States. As a result, progressive Christians often face bias and backlash, particularly in an increasingly secular society.
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Progressive Catholics and abortion
While the Catholic Church officially maintains a strong anti-abortion stance, the views of individual Catholics vary widely. Many Catholics, particularly in Western countries, hold more liberal views on abortion that differ from the official position of the Church. The frequency of Mass attendance is often correlated with Catholics' opinions on abortion, with frequent Mass-goers being more likely to oppose abortion, while those who attend less frequently are more likely to support abortion rights. This diversity of opinions within the Catholic community reflects the complex nature of the abortion debate.
Progressive Catholics often emphasize the importance of individual conscience and religious freedom in the abortion debate. They argue that individuals should have the autonomy to make conscience-based decisions about their bodies and lives, regardless of the Church's official position. This perspective aligns with the belief in supporting policies that address the needs of marginalized and vulnerable groups, which is a key aspect of progressive Catholic social justice advocacy.
However, the Church's teachings on abortion are not static, and they have evolved over time. Historically, there was a distinction made between "formed" and "unformed" fetuses, with some Catholic authors and clerics not considering abortion before "quickening" or "ensoulment" as sinful. The understanding of when an embryo gains a human soul has also changed, impacting the classification of abortion as a sin in canon law. These evolving beliefs demonstrate that the Catholic Church's stance on abortion is not set in stone and is subject to ongoing interpretation and discussion.
The abortion debate among Progressive Catholics is a complex and multifaceted issue. While some Progressive Catholics may support abortion rights based on individual freedom and social justice principles, others may find common ground with the Church's teachings on the sanctity of life. The diversity of opinions within this community reflects the broader societal debate surrounding abortion, where personal beliefs, religious values, and ethical considerations intersect. Ultimately, the relationship between Progressive Catholics and abortion is characterized by a range of perspectives that go beyond a simple oxymoron, showcasing the nuanced and evolving nature of religious beliefs in modern society.
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Progressive Catholics and the sexual revolution
In the context of the sexual revolution, a group of Catholic intellectuals, including social scientist Eugene Kennedy and philosopher-turned-activist John McNeill, sought to navigate a middle path. They embraced sexual freedoms while channelling them into acceptable avenues. For instance, they moved away from emphasizing heterosexual marriage as the only option, instead promoting monogamy more broadly. They also accepted masturbation as reasonable but cautioned against excess. This nuanced approach aimed to guide the sexual revolution towards a safe outcome that honoured Catholic teachings while acknowledging the complexities of human sexuality.
However, this progressive interpretation of Catholic doctrine in the context of the sexual revolution has faced significant opposition within the Church. Some argue that progressive Catholicism surrenders to the sexual revolution, accommodating it rather than offering a prophetic challenge. They criticize the progressive interpretation of sexual morality as spiritually immature and misleading, asserting that it contradicts the clear teachings of the New Testament. This conservative perspective emphasizes the authority of Jesus and the Church on matters of human sexual behaviour, including premarital sex, homosexuality, and abortion.
The progressive Catholic perspective, on the other hand, emphasizes social justice and compassion. Progressive Catholics argue that their interpretation of Catholic doctrine is more inclusive and responsive to the modern world. They advocate for the rights of marginalized groups, such as women, immigrants, the poor, and the working class. Additionally, progressive Catholics prioritize environmental issues and oppose the death penalty. While they may disagree with conservative Catholics on specific social and political issues, they maintain their commitment to core Catholic values, such as love and mercy.
The tension between progressive and conservative Catholicism is not new, and it extends beyond the realm of the sexual revolution. It reflects a broader struggle within the Church to define its role and message in a rapidly changing world. While some Catholics lean into progress and adaptation, others dig in their heels, resisting what they see as a dilution of their faith. This dynamic is not unique to Catholicism, as many religious traditions grapple with similar debates and divisions.
In conclusion, the relationship between Progressive Catholics and the sexual revolution is complex and multifaceted. It involves navigating between tradition and progress, dogma and interpretation, and the authority of the Church versus individual conscience. While there are strong opinions on both sides, the ongoing dialogue and introspection within Catholicism reflect a religion striving to remain relevant and responsive to the evolving social landscape.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not an oxymoron. While the term “progressive” has recently become a central term in political discourse, often used to describe the left, the term itself simply means "moving forward; advancing". Many Christians have been at the forefront of progressive social change, such as Tommy Douglas, the father of medicare, who was a Baptist socialist. Additionally, Pope Francis challenges all people of good faith to be multi-issue advocates, supporting political positions that foster the common good and address the needs of the many.
The association between Christianity and far-right politics, as well as the perception that Christianity is at odds with feminism, has led to the idea that being progressive and Catholic is an oxymoron. Additionally, the Catholic Church's involvement in child abuse and its stance on LGBTQ+ rights have further fueled this perception.
Progressive Catholics argue that their faith calls them to care about issues such as the plight of women, immigrants, the poor, the working class, unions, the environment, climate change, and the abolition of the death penalty. They believe that their faith should translate into supporting policies that address the needs of the marginalized and vulnerable.
