Pastoral care and closeness

(49) Understanding the existential problems and the choices of persons living in de facto unions is legitimate and, in some cases, a duty.  Some of these situations should even arouse real and proper compassion.  Respect for the dignity of persons is not subject to discussion.  However, understanding circumstances and respect for persons are not equivalent to a justification.  On the contrary, in these circumstances, it is a matter of emphasizing that truth is an essential good of persons and a factor of authentic freedom, and that from the affirmation of truth an offense will not result, for “it is an outstanding manifestation of charity towards souls to omit nothing from the saving doctrine of Christ”.[101][101]  On the other hand, “this must always be joined with tolerance and charity. Of this, the Lord himself in his conversation and dealings with men has left an example”.[102][102]  Therefore, Christians must try to understand the personal, social, cultural and ideological reasons for the spread of de facto unions.  It must be remembered that intelligent and discreet pastoral care can, on certain occasions, favor the “institutional” recovery of some of these unions.  The persons who find themselves in these situations must be kept in mind in a detailed and prudent way in the ordinary pastoral care of the ecclesial community.  This care implies nearness, attention to the related problems and difficulties, patient dialogue, and concrete assistance, especially with regard to the children.  Prevention, also in this aspect of pastoral care, is a priority concern.