After an outcry from conservative, English-speaking bishops, the Vatican has changed the translation of a document that recommended more humane, inclusive treatment for gays and lesbians.  But so far, only the English version of the document has been altered.

Vatican spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi said English-speaking bishops had requested the changes, and claimed that the first translation which outraged conservatives was hasty and error-ridden.  But now the changes are in question. 

Bilingual journalists say the changes blunt the groundbreaking letter and spirit of the original Italian document, and the original translation was the most accurate.  When Lombardi was shown how significantly the meaning had changed, he pledged to investigate and didn’t rule out a third version.

The first version asked if the church was capable of “welcoming these people, guaranteeing to them a fraternal space in our communities.”

But the new version asks if the church is “capable of providing for these people, guaranteeing ... them ... a place of fellowship in our communities.”

Also, the first version said that homosexual unions can often constitute a “precious support in the life of the partners.”

But the new one says gay unions often constitute “valuable support in the life of these persons.”

Lombardi says the original Italian remains the official text.  But the draft is being revised from top to bottom for a final report, which will go to a vote among bishops on Saturday.  If two-thirds approve it, the report will form the basis of discussions in dioceses around the world before another meeting of bishops next year, and ultimately a teaching document by Pope Francis.