Gay, Divorced, Remarried? Philly Archbishop Says You Must Avoid Sex

The Archbishop of Philadelphia has issued a new document stating that gay, divorced and remarried individuals should abstain from sex if they wish to receive communion.

The seven-page document, entitled "Pastoral Guidelines for Implementing Amoris Laetitia," is meant to serve as a reference text for pastors working with parishioners.

Archbishop Charles Chaput says that same sex couples, furthermore, are living a life contrary to Catholic values.

"Two persons in an active, public same-sex relationship, no matter how sincere, offer a serious counter-witness to Catholic belief, which can only produce moral confusion in the community," Chaput writes. "Such a relationship cannot be accepted into the life of the parish without undermining the faith of the community, most notably the children. "

He further notes that "openly" gay individuals should not be afforded positions of responsibility in the church.

Other notable takeaways from the document:

• Couples that live together but are "unwilling or unable" to get married should be "urged to separate."
• Marriage "tribunals" should determine the validity of an annulment request.
• Divorced and remarried persons can live with their spouse but must do so as "brother and sister" and avoid sexual intimacy.

Chaput, a Capuchin Franciscan, has long been characterized as a conservative. His stance against abortion and same sex marriage is well known. He once wrote a column criticizing Notre Dame for inviting President Obama to address the school because of his pro-choice views.

The full text of the "Guidelines" is posted on the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's website.