Father James Martin responds to the five most common reasons for opposing L.G.B.T.Q. issues that he’s heard from synod delegates and church leaders from around the world.

First, remind yourself that extreme forms of hopelessness are not coming from God.

On the Feast of the Uganda Martyrs, James Martin, S.J., recounts the story of young men revered throughout East Africa.

“You do not have to believe in Marian apparitions to be a good Catholic,” Father James Martin writes. “But I do. I’ve never had a problem believing in them.”

Father Lohfink’s book, ‘Jesus of Nazareth: What He Wanted, Who He Was,’ is a model of clarity, scholarship, insight, belief and, best of all, surprises, Father James Martin writes.

For Orthodox Christians, Lazarus Saturday, with its brightly colored vestments, its relaxation of fasting and its little sweet-smelling pastries, is a joyful time.

My trip was short but introduced me to faithful people, powerful history and a beautiful land.

Some L.G.B.T.Q. people may say this declaration doesn’t go far enough. Others will think it goes too far. Both groups, however, can agree that this is a significant change, Father James Martin writes.

My experience of the synod was far more than the thrill of sitting with church leaders from around the world. It was also a spiritual journey.

The most synodal moments for me were when I spoke with people with whom I disagreed, sometimes dramatically.