When a bishop condemns a “woke” priest for giving Holy Communion to an openly homosexual ABC broadcaster and his “husband,” the clash exposes deepening rifts over faith, family, and tradition in the modern church.
Bishop’s Rebuke Sparks Outcry Over Church Doctrine
A Catholic bishop recently issued a forceful public condemnation after a well-known priest permitted a prominent homosexual ABC broadcaster and his “husband” to receive the Eucharist side by side during Mass. The bishop’s response, rooted in longstanding Church doctrine, reignited debate over how far progressive clergy can go in redefining faith practices. Conservative Catholics and defenders of traditional values voiced dismay at what they see as a direct affront to core teachings on marriage and the sanctity of the sacraments.
“Woke” Agendas Meet Religious Tradition
The priest at the center of the controversy has been described as embracing so-called “woke” policies, promoting radical inclusivity over adherence to established doctrine. This approach, critics argue, undermines not only Church law but also the foundational beliefs that shape Christian life. Many see the public Communion of an openly homosexual couple as an overt act of defiance against centuries of moral teaching, prompting concern about the normalization of practices that contradict biblical principles and the erosion of religious authority.
Gio Benitez, the openly gay ABC news anchor, has rejoined the Roman Catholic Church and reaffirmed his faith, receiving a confirmation mass with his 'husband' at his side.
The Good Morning America co-anchor was confirmed at Church of St. Paul the Apostle, with his husband, Tommy… pic.twitter.com/ELKiRg8QlW
— Protestia (@Protestia) November 12, 2025
Conservative Response: Defending Faith and Family Values
Outraged parishioners and conservative leaders have rallied behind the bishop, calling for accountability and a return to orthodox practice. They argue that blurring the lines on marriage and the sacraments is symptomatic of broader efforts to push leftist, secular agendas within American institutions. This incident is seen as part of a pattern: progressive voices seeking to dismantle traditional values, weaken the family, and silence those who defend moral clarity. For many, the Church’s willingness to accommodate such agendas threatens to alienate faithful believers and erode the moral fabric of society.
Debate Over Inclusion Versus Doctrine Intensifies
Supporters of the priest claim that extending the Eucharist to all, regardless of lifestyle or beliefs, embodies true Christian love and inclusion. However, critics counter that such gestures confuse compassion with compromise, setting dangerous precedents and blurring the distinction between right and wrong. The bishop’s decision to call out the priest’s actions publicly has sparked a wider conversation about the Church’s role in upholding tradition and resisting the tide of political correctness and cultural relativism that many believe undermines America’s spiritual foundations.
Implications for the Church and Broader Society
This flashpoint reveals more than just internal church conflict; it mirrors national debates over constitutional rights, parental authority, and the future of American values. For conservatives, defending religious freedom means safeguarding the right to practice faith without government or activist interference. The controversy serves as a warning: when institutions capitulate to woke ideology, they risk losing their purpose, alienating their base, and accelerating the decline of the values that made this country strong.
This is pure scandal.
Fr. James Martin recently presided over the confirmation of ABC News anchor Gio Benitez, who is openly gay and was sponsored by his husband.
The Church welcomes all sinners with mercy, but repentance and conversion are essential parts of entering and… pic.twitter.com/mlCHWiasxJ
— CatholicVote (@CatholicVote) November 13, 2025