“The cardinal explained that the church St. Patrick was unaware of the deceased woman’s background. According to him, all they knew was that someone had called and requested a funeral at St. Patrick’s Cathedral for their late friend. Gentili’s friends informed the church that she was a Catholic, and having her Mass at the church would provide comfort.
St. Patrick
Dolan clarified that the parish does not conduct background checks or FBI investigations on individuals seeking burial services, and they were not informed about Gentili being transgender.
The priests made a swift decision not to conduct a Mass for Gentili, who was an award-winning author, former sex worker, and actress. Dolan commended the priests for their quick decision, stating that given certain behavior, a full Mass could not proceed. Instead, they opted for the Liturgy of the Word, including readings, sermons, prayers, petitions, and the Our Father, concluding the service at that point.
The Catholic Church has a history of condemning queer and transgender individuals, but in October, the Vatican announced that trans people could be baptized and serve as godparents in specific situations.
Following Gentili’s funeral, some Catholics expressed outrage on social media, criticizing what they perceived as scantily clad mourners and inappropriate behavior during the eulogy. Mourners playfully referred to Gentili as a “saint” and altered the lyrics of Catholic songs in a lighthearted tribute.
In response to the controversy, Dolan requested the cathedral’s pastor, the Very Rev. Enrique Salvo, to conduct a rare Mass of Reparation to seek forgiveness for the funeral.”
