Seattle archbishop: Pope’s ‘focus on civil unions is more about public policy than Church teaching’ (Archbishop Etienne)

“Pope Francis continues to strongly support the teaching of the Church that marriage is between a man and a woman and is a permanent union,” said Archbishop Paul Etienne. “He has no problem making the necessary distinction between the two realities of civil unions and marriage … Our Holy Father envisions a compassionate Church, one with a maternal heart, willing to overcome insecurity, fear, and a willingness to reject others.”