Synodality in the (Non)Reception of Fiducia Supplicans among Filipino Catholic Priests and Same-Sex Couples

This paper will explore how Fiducia Supplicans (FS), the Vatican's declaration on blessings for couples in "irregular situations" and same-sex couples, is received—or not—by Filipino clergy and same-sex couples. Using a conversation in the Spirit approach (Dulle 2024), this study will engage both groups in a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to foster an open and respectful exchange of perspectives. Inspired by my experience in the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines’ (CBCP) In-Depth Synodal Discussion on Gender and Sexuality, this research seeks to replicate that synodal process of communal discernment (CBCP National Team on Synodality, 2024).

Rather than separate FGDs for priests and same-sex couples, I propose a combined session where participants can engage in true encounter and dialogue. This approach aligns with the spirit of synodality, ensuring that differing views on FS are expressed and listened to without judgment. The research will analyze thematic responses from the discussion, assessing the extent of reception or rejection of FS and the synodal spirit’s presence in the conversation. The study aims to provide insights into how Filipino Catholics, clergy and laity alike, engage with this declaration and whether their process of reception is truly synodal.

Research Objectives

Primary Objectives:

1. Determine whether Fiducia Supplicans is received by the Filipino Catholic Church, not just by bishops but also by lay faithful, particularly same-sex couples.
2. Examine whether the reception (or non-reception) occurs through a synodal process.

Secondary Objectives:

1. Clarify the meaning of pastoral blessings for same-sex couples.
2. Define reception in the context of Church teaching.
3. Explain synodality and its implications for the local Church.
4. Analyze the conversation in the Spirit methodology and its effectiveness.
5. Create a model of a synodal receptive space for clergy and same-sex couples.
6. Develop findings and recommendations to be potentially submitted to the CBCP for inclusion in synodal reports.

Background and Context

The release of Fiducia Supplicans on December 18, 2023, sparked diverse reactions worldwide. While some, such as Francis DeBernardo (2023) of New Ways Ministry, praised it as a progressive step, others, particularly bishops in Africa, rejected it outright. In the Philippines, initial responses varied: Archbishop Socrates Villegas emphasized conversion over blessing, while Bishop Pablo Virgilio David (2023) stated that FS “speaks for itself.”

This diversity in reaction raises questions about how FS is understood and applied within different contexts. The concept of reception is crucial here, as theologians like Dr. SimonMary Aihiokhai assert that it is not solely the prerogative of bishops but involves the entire baptized community in discernment. (Shine, 2024) This study takes this perspective seriously, seeking to examine how reception occurs—or fails to occur—within the Filipino Church, particularly among those directly affected by FS.

Methodology

This research employs a qualitative approach, centering on a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) that brings together Filipino Catholic priests and same-sex couples. This FGD will be conducted in the manner of a conversation in the Spirit, ensuring an open, prayerful, and respectful exchange of views.

Steps:

1. Participant Recruitment: Identify and invite Filipino Catholic priests and same-sex couples through Church networks and personal contacts.
2. Facilitator & Documenter: Engage professionals trained in synodal facilitation to guide the discussion and record responses.
3. Discussion Framework: Use guiding questions to explore participants’ understanding and reception (or rejection) of FS.
4. Thematic Analysis: Analyze recorded discussions for patterns in reception, resistance, and theological or pastoral concerns.
5. Evaluation of Synodality: Assess whether the discussion upheld the spirit of synodality, including mutual listening and discernment.

Key Considerations

• Logistics: Identify whether the FGD will be conducted in-person or online, considering accessibility for participants.
• Challenges: Address potential hurdles, such as dominant voices, participant hesitancy, or theological tensions.
• Ethical Considerations: Ensure confidentiality, informed consent, and a safe discussion space.

Expected Outputs

I plan to develop the following in the process of writing the paper:

1. A detailed analysis of Fiducia Supplicans and its implications.
2. A comparative study of Vatican documents on same-sex blessings.
3. A synthesis of global and Filipino responses to FS.
4. A report on the FGD, including thematic findings.
5. Recommendations for the CBCP on fostering synodal reception of FS.

Conclusion

This study aims to contribute to the broader discourse on synodality and LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Catholic Church. By facilitating a conversation in the Spirit between Filipino priests and same-sex couples, this research seeks to illuminate pathways for a more synodal Church that genuinely listens to all its members. 

Endnotes: 

CBCP News. (2023, December 19). FULL TEXT: Archbishop Villegas issues guidance on Vatican declaration ‘Fiducia supplicans’. CBCP News. https://cbcpnews.net/cbcpnews/full-text-archbishop-villegas-issues-guidance-on-vatican-declaration-fiducia-supplicans/

CBCP National Team on Synodality. (2024, March 15). An in-depth synodal discussion and discernment on key controversial issues [Conference session]. University of Santo Tomas Graduate School, Thomas Aquinas Research Complex, Manila, Philippines.

DeBernardo, F. (2023, December 18). New Ways Ministry: Pope’s blessing approval is early Christmas gift to LGBTQ+ Catholics. New Ways Ministry. https://www.newwaysministry.org/2023/12/18/new-ways-ministry-popes-blessings-approval-is-early-christmas-gift-to-lgbtq-catholics/

Dulle, C. (2024, July 30). The Jesuit roots of the synod's 'conversations in the spirit'. America Magazine. https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2024/07/30/conversation-spirit-synod-248471

Shine, R. (2024, January 18). Africa’s prelates refuse to bless LGBTQ+ couples; One archbishop breaks ranks. New Ways Ministry. https://www.newwaysministry.org/2024/01/18/africas-prelates-refuse-to-bless-lgbtq-couples-one-archbishop-breaks-ranks/