Archbishop Timothy Broglio of the Archdiocese for Military Services publishes pointers for Catholic chaplains and commanders.

As Same-Sex Couples in the Military Win Benefits, the Church Issues Guidelines 

by JOAN FRAWLEY DESMOND

"the speed with which these changes are made is incredible"

In the wake of the June 26 U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning part of the federal Defense of Marriage Act, the Obama administration has moved swiftly to provide spousal benefits for servicemen and servicewomen in legal same-sex “marriages,” including housing subsidies, health care coverage and separation pay.

The expanded benefits, and the recent practice of some military chaplains presiding at the weddings of same-sex couples, have raised questions about the right of Catholic chaplains and lay commanders to refuse to participate in programs and rituals, or facilitate benefits that appear to challenge Church teaching on marriage and sexual ethics.

On Sept. 17, Archbishop Timothy Broglio of the Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS) issued a statement providing formal guidance for Catholic chaplains, lay ministers and commanders. On Sept. 19, Archbishop Broglio discussed the shifting context and concerns that prompted military commanders to request a clear response from the archdiocese with Register senior editor Joan Frawley Desmond.
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