U.S. Catholic Bishops Formalize Ban on Gender-Affirming Care

Thu Nov 13 2025 05:08:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The U.S. Catholic bishops voted to officially prohibit gender-affirming care for transgender patients in Catholic hospitals, a decision reflecting ongoing debates surrounding transgender rights within the church.

In a recent vote, U.S. Catholic bishops have formalized a ban on gender-affirming care for transgender individuals in Catholic healthcare settings. This move, which updates the church's ethical and religious directives, comes amid broader discussions about the church's approach to gender identity and inclusion. Proponents for transgender rights, including various progressive religious groups, have voiced their opposition to this directive, advocating for the church to embrace inclusivity and respect for all individuals.

The recent meeting of U.S. Catholic bishops reached a significant conclusion with a vote to ban gender-affirming care for transgender patients at Catholic hospitals. This decision institutionalizes a stance that many bishops have held for years as a part of the church's evolving discussion on transgender health care.

From their assembly in Baltimore, bishops emphatically revised their ethical and religious directives, which serve as guidance for thousands of Catholic healthcare institutions across the nation. As Catholic hospitals account for a substantial portion of daily medical care in the U.S., this directive could have far-reaching effects, particularly in communities that lack alternative healthcare options.

Major healthcare associations have advocated for gender-affirming care, arguing its necessity for the well-being of transgender patients. However, the bishops' new directive reinforces a conservative approach to healthcare practices that aim to align with traditional Catholic doctrines.

It's crucial that the church takes a firm stance on gender ideology, remarked Bishop Robert Barron from Minnesota, underscoring the rationale behind the directive during discussions. Each bishop will have discretion in implementing these guidelines within their own dioceses.

The Catholic Health Association supported the directive's incorporation of earlier feedback but maintains that their institutions will continue to treat transgender individuals with dignity and respect, affirming their commitment to serve those marginalized by society.

These guidelines also build upon earlier Vatican documents from 2024 and directives from U.S. bishops in 2023, creating a comprehensive framework against interventions to alter one's sex characteristics, whether surgical or pharmaceutical.

While the bishops’ decision indicates a firm stance, the Catholic Church is not wholly united on the issue of transgender rights. Some parishes actively embrace trans individuals and advocate for their inclusion, highlighting a rift within the church's broader perspective on such matters.

In parallel to the bishops' discussions, various progressive religious leaders publicly endorsed transgender rights, marking a time of increasing tension between traditionalist views and the need for inclusion within faith communities.

Wrapping up their conference, the bishops also addressed immigration issues, presenting a united front against mass deportation. This reflects a growing concern for social justice issues across the U.S., reinforcing the Catholic Church's dual commitment to care for marginalized communities while upholding its doctrines.