Professional surfer Bethany Hamilton weighs in on transgender inclusion in surfing as controversy surrounds activist's funeral

The archdiocese of St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City denounced the controversial funeral of transgender activist Cecilia Gentili. The funeral, which drew over 1,000 people, focused on praying for transgender rights and access to gender-affirming health care. Outrage ensued from the Catholic community. Rev. Enrique Salvo expressed the church's shock over the sacrilegious and deceptive elements of the funeral. The Manhattan archdiocese clarified that the Cathedral was unaware of the funeral's content when agreeing to host it. Subsequently, the church began a "Mass of Reparation" at the Cardinal’s direction.

Controversial Funeral

Response from the Church