The Ruth Institute congratulates and thanks Archbishop Charles
Chaput of Philadelphia for his clear teaching on marriage, family and human sexuality. The Pastoral Guidelines for Implementing Amoris Laetitia in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia are the work of a compassionate pastor who loves the souls under his care. These Guidelines will assist the priests, deacons and laity
in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to reach out with genuine mercy and justice to Catholics, and to the wider community, who are hungry for the truth.
We are particularly encouraged that these Guidelines are comprehensive, dealing with the major problems encountered in pastoral care of the family. The
Archbishop’s Guidelines address the problems of 1) married couples, 2) those who are separated and divorced but not remarried, 3) those who are separated
and divorced and have a civil remarriage, 4) those who are cohabiting and finally, 5) those who experience same sex attraction.
The Ruth Institute dreams of the day when every child will be welcomed into a loving home with a married mother and father. We believe every child has
the right to a relationship with both natural parents, unless some unavoidable tragedy prevents it. We believe every adult without exception has the
right to know his or her cultural heritage and genetic identity. The Philadelphia Guidelines represent an implementation of the ancient teachings of
Christianity and of Jesus Christ Himself. These teachings protect the interests of children, as well as the interests of men and women in lifelong
married love.
We thank Archbishop Chaput for his wisdom and charity.
As a sign of support for Archbishop Chaput, the Ruth Institute offers these roses and our prayers for him and for everyone in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.