Coming up short: The catholic church’s pastoral response to the transgender crisis in america

Abstract

The Vatican and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) have issued official responses to the phenomenon of gender diversity, as well as instructions for the education and care of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) people in America. However, have these authorities effectively utilized current sociological research to develop and implement contextually appropriate pastoral practices that are lifegiving and to the greatest benefit of this at-risk population? This article argues that they have not and that their recommendations have been linked to increased harm and marginalization. Utilizing Richard Osmer’s framework for practical theological interpretation, this article begins with an overview of the Magisterium’s guidance, followed by a summary of quantitative data gleaned from national surveys, population studies, and demographic analyses that reveals unique experiences of suffering and oppression. The middle sections bring in leading theories and findings from social, health, and medical fields, which illustrate TGD needs and vulnerabilities and expose the Magisterial offices’ dangerous failure to meet or even acknowledge them. The final sections call for a revised pastoral approach grounded in the concrete situations of TGD people and congruent with the Church’s commitment to love, service, and social justice. Good practice models and ethical norms are suggested for immediate incorporation into care and praxis.