Homosexuality
Is it a sin to socialize with homosexuals?
It is always a sin to place oneself in an unnecessary occasion of sin, that is, deliberately be with persons, places or things which prudence tells us will lead us to sin. Therefore, if one has a homosexual tendency or orientation, such socialization could be an occasion of sin, and therefore, evil. Also, it is a sin to encourage someone, either directly or indirectly, to commit sin. If "socialization" involves such encouragement, it would also be a sin. Homosexual acts, insofar as they are done freely and deliberately, are always mortal sins. However, while we must always hate sin, we are required to love sinners, as Jesus, our divine Master, does. While never condoning wicked conduct, we are required, as disciples of Jesus, to be kind to all, including homosexual people, although we must make it clear that we abhor their perverted activity. Kindness, for Christians, include practicing the works of mercy. Among the spiritual works of mercy are: "Admonish the sinner… instruct the ignorant." Check the Catechism of the Catholic Church about the matters, numbers 2357-2359. Be sure to have the up-to-date revisions of this section in your copy.
Reprinted from May 8, 1998
Yes. Every homosexual act is objectively and intrinsically evil. If such an act is done with free consent of the will and full deliberation, it is always a mortal sin. (See Romans 1:24-27 and 1 Corinthians 6:9-10).
Reprinted from October 25, 1996