The teachings of the Catholic Church about homosexuality are clear, leaving no room for ambiguity.

The Catechism (2357) states that “homosexual acts are intrinsically disordered. Under no circumstances can they be approved”. It continues that “homosexual persons must be accepted with respect, compassion and sensitivity. They are called to chastity”.

The latter words are the most difficult to contemplate let alone to accept, considering today’s mentality where the gratification of one’s desires, especially sexual ones, has come to be considered an absolute right.

The believer, however, looks at all this differently, despite the falsehoods banded about, and believes that it is not only imperative but possible, with God’s help, to live a chaste life.

Moreover, the believer holds that, living in sin, apart from being distant from God’s love and mercy, can never enable one to enjoy a joyful and fulfilled life and this despite the inevitable trials and tribulations that life presents to all of us. He keeps reminding himself and others of the words of the Scripture, both in the New and in the Old Testament, that “God made them male and female”.

Parents of children with same-sex attraction have a tremendous role to play. No matter what, they will keep loving their children but always with one clear aim in mind. This is to keep reminding them that God loves them and wants them to live according to His plan for them. With God’s help nothing is impossible.

Parents, especially those of young children, also have to be wary of the underhand manner, especially through seemingly innocuous books, that send subtle messages reflecting the ideology that one can choose one’s sex and live life accordingly.

Let Christians be firm in their conviction that the angel’s words to Mary - “For with God nothing will be impossible” - is the way forward for those who believe that a life in God’s grace is the greatest treasure we can all aspire to.