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The Vatican's doctrinal office has emphasized the inherent dignity of every human being, a principle that influences its stance on various issues, including gender ideology. Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, head of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, addressed these topics during a conference organized by Germany’s Cologne University of Catholic Theology in February.
Cardinal Fernández acknowledged the complex nature of gender dysphoria, describing it as "exceptional situations (which) must be evaluated with great care." He noted that while the church recognizes and empathizes with individuals experiencing such profound discomfort, it opposes what he termed as "the ideology that usually accompanies so many sex-change decisions." This ideology is seen as denying one's bodily reality and claiming omnipotence over one's identity.
The cardinal participated in a conference via video link to discuss Catholic teachings on human dignity. He presented insights from "Dignitas Infinita" ("Infinite Dignity"), a document approved by Pope Francis in April 2024. The document has sparked debate over its views on gender theory and sex-change procedures.
Fernández clarified that the church's defense of "ontological dignity" remains steadfast regardless of an individual's state or circumstances. This form of dignity is immutable and divinely given, distinct from moral or social dignity which can fluctuate based on behavior or societal conditions.
He stated that certain life conditions might not align with this inherent dignity but do not diminish it. The cardinal highlighted that this understanding contradicts some societal interpretations where rights are often manipulated by those in power.
"Infinite Dignity" condemns discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals while also warning against gender theory's potential to erase differences under the guise of equality. It argues that such interventions could undermine the unique dignity bestowed at conception.
In his February talk, Cardinal Fernández stressed recognizing how belief in human body's divine image affects views on identity changes. He differentiated between typical cosmetic surgery and sex change procedures which involve deeper identity shifts.
While acknowledging severe dysphorias requiring careful evaluation, he criticized ideologies supporting radical bodily changes based solely on personal desires and freedom claims.
On infinite dignity's source for finite beings, Fernández cited Christian teachings: “This possibility was truly opened through the incarnation and redemption of Christ.” He referenced St. John Paul II’s 1980 statement about God bestowing infinite dignity through Jesus’ love as foundational to understanding this concept within church doctrine.
