Volume 24, Number 3 A Publication of New Ways Ministry Spring 2004 Ruling on same-sex civil marriage a positive step for human rights

Editorial It should be noted here that advocating The National Catholic Reporter for civil marriage for gays and lesbians is not February 20, 2004 meant to seem a cavalier defiance of church teaching. The two, for purposes of the current The ruling by the Supreme Judicial Court debate, should be separate. of Massachusetts allowing same-sex civil That is not to suggest that church teaching marriage is a beneficial step along the path of should never inform legislative activity, and human understanding and human rights. that can happen in a number of ways. But there We say that with every understanding of also are any number of areas where church how strongly some oppose such a notion, often teaching and state law or policies diverge out of deeply held religious conviction. And — divorce and contraception come to mind, we say it understanding that civil marriage — as do the continuing proliferation of nuclear whether between heterosexuals or homosexu- weapons and the state’s insistence on main- als — has no effect on sacramental marriage taining the death penalty — without harm to or other religious traditions and their under- the church’s teachings or religious practice. standings of marriage. The church maintains strict rules regard- Our own Catholic tradition, drawing on ing divorce, for example, but does little offi- natural law and scripture, holds that marriage cially to interfere with the states’ rather relaxed is only between a man and a woman. Official approach to granting divorce. Catholic teaching says all homosexual acts are And though a divorced and remarried gravely sinful. Other major world religions Catholic might be prohibited from receiv- Demanding the right to gay marriage Chicago Anti-Bashing Network hold similar views. ing Communion, the church does not seek to

deny that person civil benefits because his or Our understanding of that bit of natural law her sexual practices might violate the church’s and God’s order has certainly changed dra- understanding of God’s law and natural law. matically during the past century. Too often It should also be noted that the official scripture is used to justify long-held notions Belgian cardinal church teaching on homosexuality, relying on and prejudices, following popular opinion as ancient understandings of human nature and much as it might shape it. differentiates moral levels sexuality, has benefited little, as far as we can All of that, of course, could make for good see, from new and accumulating insights in discussion some day within the church, but the the study of such areas as sexuality, psychiatry church today, it is all too clear, is not receptive of condom use and medicine. to discussion of many difficult issues concern- In terms of scripture, too, we should not ing human sexuality. lose sight of the fact that slavery was once not Not only was slavery once written into our By Carol Glatz abstinence, then he has to protect his partner only accepted but taught from our sacred texts. civil laws, so was the prohibition against racial- The Catholic Messenger and he can do that — in this case — by using Continued on page 2 January 22, 2004 a condom.” Otherwise, he said, an HIV-positive person Using condoms to prevent a life-threaten- engaging in sexual activity outside of marriage ing disease such as HIV/AIDS is not on the without a condom not only breaks the Sixth Inside same moral level as using them for birth con- Commandment, “You shall not omit adultery,” trol, said a Belgian cardinal. but also the Fifth Commandment, “You shall Same-sex Marriage ...... 1, 3, 8, 9 “Someone who is infected with the HIV not kill.” Ministry and Ministers ...... 2, 3, 4, 11 virus and decides to have sex with an uninfect- The church teaches that married couples ed person has to protect his partner by using a should not use condoms and other contracep- Priests Challenge Vatican ...... 4, 5 condom,” said Cardinal Godfried Danneels of tive devices. Mechelen-Brussels. Some church leaders, including some International News ...... 1, 6, 7, 16 Speaking on the Dutch Catholic television French and African bishops, have said that if a Lesbian/Gay Catholics Speak Up ...... 10, 11 program “Kruispunt” Jan. 11, he said that sex- condom is being used to avoid a life-threaten- ual activity is confined morally to the bound- ing disease, its use is not necessarily a contra- College Life ...... 12, 13 aries of marriage between a man and a woman ceptive action. and that abstinence is morally correct and safe Cardinal Danneels said it is the duty of New Ways Happenings ...... 14, 15 in offering protection against HIV infection. bishops to explain the moral issues surround- Parish Life ...... 14, 15 But, Cardinal Danneels said, “If a person ing condom use. ◗ infected with HIV has decided to not respect Page 2 BONDINGS Volume 24 Number 3 BONDINGS Sister Gramick’s Journey Spring 2004 Volume 24, No.3 Francis DeBernardo, Editor langfeldesigns, Design Is Filmed Board of Directors By Barbara Rick Other screenings include: Newfest 2004, the 16th New York Mary Byers May 17, 2004 LGBT Film Festival, June 10, 6 pm, Lowes Cineplex 34th Street Frank J. O’Donnell, SM Theatre; Jacob Burns Film Center, Pleasantville, NY, June 12, Rev. Paul Thomas After three and half years of hard work, Out of The Blue 4:30pm; Silverdocs: AFI/Discovery Channel Documentary Board of Advisors Films, Inc. is pleased to announce completion of the documen- Film Festival, Silver Spring, MD, June 16, 5 pm. tary, In Good Conscience: Sister Jeannine Gramick’s Journey of Another screening will occur in Philadelphia, July 15–22 Mary Ann Coyle, SL Faith. (date and time to be arranged), as part of the Philadelphia William Hunt, SFO The film tells the story of an American nun’s battle with the International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. Patricia McDermott, RSM Vatican over her compassionate and controversial ministry to After showings at various film festivals, the documentary Barbara Regan, rc gay and lesbian Catholics. will be released for theatres, television screens, church base- Staff Legendary filmmaker, Albert Maysles, who was so moved ments and high school and college classrooms around the by Sister Jeannine and her story that he volunteered to film world. The public will be alerted to screenings in local areas. Terence Cant, Program Specialist the project, called the fine cut “a master- Francis DeBernardo, Executive Director piece.” Erin McClure, Staff Associate Barbara Kopple, Oscar-winning docu- Co-founders mentarian, agreed and added, “This is the most insightful and motivational film Sister Jeannine Gramick and Father Robert Nugent so far about the Catholic Church.” Ms. Kopple also calls In Good Conscience Bondings is a seasonal publication designed to keep our “brilliant,” “courageous,” and “fabulous subscribers informed of issues that pertain to lesbian and storytelling.” gay people and the Catholic Church. The film was showcased for film indus- Founded in 1977, New Ways Ministry is an education- try executives at the prestigious European al and bridge-building ministry of reconciliation between Film Market in Berlin in February. It the Catholic gay and lesbian community and institutional was among a handful of films chosen to structures in the Roman Catholic Church. be part of the 2004 Independent Feature New Ways Ministry seeks to eradicate prevalent myths Project Market Showcase. and stereotypes about homosexuality and supports civil On April 25, In Good Conscience had rights for lesbian and gay persons in society. its world premiere at the 19th Annual For more information, contact: Turin Lesbian/Gay Film Festival in Italy. After the world premiere, the film will New Ways Ministry screen at various international festivals. 4012 29th Street, Mt. Rainier, Maryland 20712 The Canadian premiere will be on Sr. Jeannine Gramick Photo Credit: Cynthia O’Murchu (301) 277-5674 May 22nd, in Toronto, at the Inside/Out Email: [email protected] Toronto Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. The film received production funding from Susan Sarandon, Web: www.newwaysministry.org The film will be premiered in the U.S. in New York City Ellen de Generes, Trudie Styler, Agnes Gund (former presi- at the Lincoln Center on Wednesday, June 9th at 6:30 pm dent of MOMA), Deborah Santana, the Andrew Goodman at the Walter Reade Theatre. The event is sponsored by the Foundation, and the H. van Ameringen Foundation, and indi- Independent Feature Project, a nonprofit independent film vidual donations from clergy, gay and lesbian Catholics, and the advocacy group, and The Film Society of Lincoln Center as part families and friends who love them. TO SUBSCRIBE. . . of its “Independents Night” series. There will be a filmmaker Contact Out of The Blue Films, Inc., 799 Broadway, COMPLETE AND RETURN THE FORM BELOW questions and answers period and a reception to follow. Barbara Suite 609, New York, NY 10003, 212.477.2211 or e-mail Rick, the director-producer, Albert Maysles, and Sister Jeannine info@outofthebluefilms.com for more information about In Please add my name to your Bondings mailing list. will be present. Good Conscience. ◗ Enclosed is: __ $15.00 in the U.S. or Canada. __ $20.00 outside the U.S. or Canada. Ruling on same-sex civil marriage a positive step for human rights __ I wish to receive Bondings but cannot donate at this Continued from page 1 time. __ An extra contribution for those unable to donate. ly mixed marriages. They no longer are because our understand- partners will begin marrying in Massachusetts on May 17. ing changes, and so do our laws and social proscriptions. Whether one likes it or not, gay marriage is a reality if not a Name ______One of the primary arguments heard against gay marriage legal fact. Gay couples live together, own homes together, often Address ______and the bestowal of benefits it would bring to gay couples is that contribute significantly to their communities. Increasingly City ______allowing same-sex marriage will destroy heterosexual mar- their children attend our schools and play on our community State ______Zip ______riage. sports teams and participate in local arts and music events. And Home Phone ______Traditional marriage, of course, has been in trouble for some increasingly gay couples attend our churches, as families, as full Work Phone ______time now. Only half of new marriages last, yet among the host participants, celebrating with us, even sharing our sacramental Email Address ______of reasons one could enumerate, no one has marshaled evidence life, presenting their children for baptism. showing a cause and effect between gay unions and the high We in the church may have a long road of discussion and Please make check payable to “New Ways Ministry.” divorce rate. discernment before us on this issue. But that seems little reason For non-U.S. subscriptions, please use only checks drawn As of press time here, state lawmakers in Massachusetts were to step into the fray, actively opposing what appears a logical on a U.S. Bank in U.S. dollars. still debating possible amendments to the state Constitution, a evolution, in the civil arena, of human understanding and a Mail to: New Ways Ministry, 4012 29th Street, process that could nullify the Supreme Judicial Court ruling, reasonable extension of benefits to members of the community Mt. Rainier, Maryland 20712 but that would also take until at least 2006 to finalize. In the who even the church says should not be unjustly discriminated meantime, under the Supreme Judicial Court ruling, same-sex against. ◗ Spring 2004 BONDINGS Page 3 Nuns’ Group Supports Same-Sex Marriage

National Coalition of American Nuns immoral and should be illegal to discriminate threatened by same-sex marriage than by celi- discrimination based on sexual orientation. Board Statement against any person because of his or her sexual bate single persons. Such discrimination is politically and morally March 22, 2004 preference.” While communities of faith debate the wrong. In 1996, when the United States Senate con- theological meaning of marriage and a viable Founded in 1969, the National Coalition of The National Coalition of American Nuns sidered passage of the “Defense of Marriage sexual ethic, we believe the political definition American Nuns is a group of approximately [NCAN] believes that a responsible ethic ema- Act,” which stated that marriage must involve of marriage must not be discriminatory. The 500 women religious in the Catholic Church in nates from both individual conscience and a man and a woman, NCAN opposed the bill. ethic in the civil arena seems clear: If hetero- the United States who are dedicated to study- theological reflection within a faith commu- NCAN still opposes any such measure. We sexual unions or marriages are recognized by ing, working, and speaking out on issues of nity. We further believe that all persons have believe heterosexual marriage needs no leg- the state, a lack of similar recognition of same- human rights and social justice. ◗ a right to choose how they fulfill the divine islative act to defend it because it is no more sex unions or marriages is an unambiguous command to love one another. We are opposed to any environment that does not allow people to follow their consciences and make informed judgments about their own lives. We welcome theological reflection from all the people of Former nun preaches acceptance, God to produce a viable sexual ethic. There is much disagreement about gay marriage among people of good faith. Some provides support Christian congregations have blessed same-sex unions for years, seeing no contradiction to the By Liz Stevens Holy Name Elementary School in Fort Bible or to the natural moral law. Fort Worth Star Telegram, Fort Worth, TX Worth and another five as the director NCAN believes that human conscious- June 29, 2003 of education for the Fort Worth Catholic ness has slowly evolved to accept the dignity Diocese. and human rights of all people so that slavery The first Monday of each month, Rita She doesn’t find her new vocation, as is now generally condemned worldwide. The Cotterly’s office fills up with men. Men wear- an outspoken advocate for the gay and Christian Church’s appreciation for the invio- ing wigs and dresses and calling themselves transgendered communities, inconsistent lability of religious freedom, its sexual theology, Cindy or Stacy. Men who no longer consider with her old community. And she doesn’t and even its understanding of the meaning of themselves men — and are happier this way. Or mince words when it comes to educating Rita Cotterly, right, has led a transgender support group marriage have all changed over the centuries. hoping to be. whoever will listen about transgender- out of her Fort Worth office for the past 13 years. The Can we not imagine that God’s Spirit is ask- Cotterly’s lamp-lit Fort Worth office is one ism. first Monday and third Friday of each month, anywhere from a handful to a couple dozen of Cotterly’s clients ing the human community to further examine of the few places that many of them can feel “Sex is between the legs, but gender is show up to share their experiences. Cotterly, a former the question “What is the nature or essence of absolutely secure and unjudged. between the ears,” she likes to say. “You nun, is a relentless advocate for both the transgendered marriage?” NCAN maintains that love, care, The Monday-night transgender support can dress a child in pearls and pink and and gay/lesbian communities. and commitment to another human being, group has met once a month since 1990, the give them dolls, but if they are male, they between one-third and one-half of the trans- not gender or procreation, form the essence or year Cotterly received her doctorate degree in are male, and they will soon find out.” sexual population, but have received consid- meaning of marriage. human sexuality from New York University The vast majority of Cotterly’s support- erably less media attention. Two of the MTF NCAN believes that civil law, as well as the- and returned to Fort Worth. group regulars are male-to-female (MTF) transsexuals regularly attend group meetings ology, must respect and protect all persons. In Before that, for 35 years, the sex educator transsexuals, though occasionally the meet- with their wives. a 1974 Board Resolution supporting civil rights was a Catholic nun. As a sister of St. Mary of ings will include a woman living as a man. The mood of the meetings fluctuates: for homosexual persons, NCAN stated, “It is Namur, she spent five years as the principal of Female-to-male (FTM) transsexuals make up spontaneous laughter one minute, choked- Continued on page 12 Bishops Assail Gay Marriages as a Threat By THOMAS J. LUECK When asked by Mr. Dicker, who is a politi- back to Brooklyn from Albany and could not the sidelines, leaving the issue to the courts. The New York Times cal writer for The New York Post, if he thought be reached. Cardinal Egan, who met with Governor March 10, 2004 same-sex marriage might be a “Pandora’s Box” Kevin Cathcart, executive director of the Pataki and Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. that would lead to other forms of legally sanc- Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund, Bruno, said same-sex marriage should be for- Cardinal Edward Egan and other senior tioned unions, Bishop DiMarzio said, “It cer- said Bishop DiMarzio should “take his absurd bidden for the good of society and to sustain Roman Catholic clerics traveled to Albany tainly is.” arguments and stay home.” traditional families. yesterday to meet with Gov. George E. Pataki “There is no end to it unless we really come “The bishop used the word ‘absurd,’ and I’ll “I wouldn’t be surprised if the governor and top lawmakers to convey their church’s back to some common understanding of our use it again,” Mr. Cathcart said. “If this is his understood marriage pretty much the same staunch opposition to same-sex marriage. roots as a country,” he said. idea of an argument against treating people as all of us do,” Cardinal Egan said after his Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio of Brooklyn, who The bishop’s comments drew harsh criti- fairly, and against treating us all equally under meeting with Mr. Pataki. The governor has discussed the church’s position in a radio inter- cism from advocates of gay rights and same- the Constitution, then I haven’t heard anything expressed strong personal opposition to same- view, condemned same-sex marriage as some- sex marriage. as absurd all day.” sex marriage. thing that might, by extension, be compared to “This is hard to believe in this day and The bitter response to Bishop DiMarzio came Cardinal Egan discussed other topics, the legal union of people and their pets. age,” said State Senator Thomas K. Duane, a on a day when he and his fellow clerics, includ- including the need for better housing and “I will give you an example, O.K.?,” Bishop Manhattan Democrat. ing bishops from across the state, made their health care for the poor, in his Albany meet- DiMarzio said in an appearance on Fred The senator added: “It is very sad he is annual lobbying trip to Albany. They made their ings. But it was clearly same-sex marriage that Dicker’s political talk show on WROW-AM. unable to have a substantial discussion on the case in a political environment that appeared to topped the agenda. “You want to reduce something to the absurd, issue and that he is trying to reduce the dis- preclude changes in the marriage law. In a homily at noon in the state convention which is basically rhetorical use of an image: course to a childish, nonsensical level.” The issue is deemed so politically sensitive center, Cardinal Egan told 1,000 worshipers Why can’t we have marriages between people Frank DeRosa, a spokesman for the that lawmakers show little inclination to amend that it was essential to “champion the rights of and pets?” the bishop said. “I mean, pets real- Diocese of Brooklyn, declined to elaborate on the current law to allow same sex-marriage or the family.” ly love their masters and why can’t we have a the bishop’s comments. Speaking by telephone forbid it in more explicit terms. Instead, law- He added: “It is the most basic, essential marriage so they could inherit their money?” last night, he said the bishop was traveling makers of both parties appear to be staying on and sacred component of society.” ◗ Page 4 BONDINGS Volume 24 Number 3 Rev. Daley discloses he’s gay

By KRISTA J. KARCH needs, the AP reported. speaker should not be someone who speaks of many, but in prayer I felt that in the long run, The Observer-Dispatch,Utica, NY Danielle Cummings, spokeswoman for the out on controversial issues. “If it was Gay Pride the truth — this truth — will help many,” he March 26, 2004 Syracuse Diocese, said priests have an obliga- Day, then Father Daley would be very fitting,” said, adding that homophobia is the result of tion to celibacy, whatever their sexual orienta- Julian said. ignorance. “I’m being faithful to myself and The Rev. Fred Daley, longtime pastor at St. tion. A priest’s homosexuality does not result Utica Common Councilman Bill Phillips the Gospel of Jesus.” ◗ Francis DeSales Church on Eagle Street, trusts in dismissal from the priesthood. attended the Mass in support of Daley. He said the community will continue to accept him Cummings said Thursday evening she was he would do the same thing again now. after his acknowledgment that he is gay. not aware of contact about this issue between “Whatever his sexual preference is, it really He made the disclosure during an inter- Daley and the bishops. Other diocesan leaders doesn’t concern me,” Phillips said Thursday Nun Receives Tom view with the Observer-Dispatch Thursday. were unavailable for comment night. “I will say he is one of The interview was in advance of Daley’s Thursday night. the greatest humanitarians Dooley Award “Real Hero” award, which he accepted from St. Francis DeSales is one of that I have ever met.” the United Way of the Greater Utica Area three Utica Catholic churches The controversy spurred a By David Barber Thursday evening. The award was in recogni- working on a plan to integrate community debate that led to Los Angeles tion of his social ministry on Hospitality Row, and become one parish under the publication of more than November 22, 2003 where many of Utica’s poor are served. one priest, with three cam- 100 letters to the editor in the “I’m the same person today as I was yester- puses, by July 2006. Daley is O-D. Friends of Daley believe Sr. Jeannine Gramick received the 2003 day,” he said. “My expectation and prayer is that nearing the end of a second, he may face negative reactions, Thomas Dooley III, M.D. Award of Exceptional people will continue to love and respect me.” six-year term as pastor of St. but that those who truly know Service for her career of 30+years of ministry to Daley said he shared this information with Francis, and he hopes to stay him will be supportive. gay and lesbian Catholics, November 22, 2003, the bishops of the Roman Catholic Diocese of in Utica even after completion “Like the New Testament in Hollywood, CA, from the Gay and Lesbian Syracuse as well as a few close friends and fam- of that obligation. says, you judge a person by Alumni/ae Association of the University of ily members. “I respect the bishops of the fruits of their labor,” said Notre Dame and Saint Mary’s College (GALA- Celibacy is a “charism,” or a gift for some our diocese, and I know they Michael Crinnin, a longtime ND/SMC) people, he said. “I myself am gay, and I am respect me and my ministry,” Rev. Fred Daley friend of Daley’s and executive The annual award is named for Dr. Thomas committed to living a celibate life,” he said. Daley said. Daley said his deci- director of AIDS Community Dooley, the gay Notre Dame grad who achieved Despite a tremendous amount of fear and sion to come out stems from what he views as Resources. “He has nothing to show for him- world fame in the 1950s as a doctor who set anxiety about coming out publicly, Daley said the scapegoating of gay clergy over the sexual self but an incredible number of good works.” up charitable hospitals to assist the needy of he feels called by God to do so and is ready to abuse crisis within the Catholic Church. Sister Betty Giarrusso, C.S.J., has worked Vietnam and Laos. accept whatever “rejection or misunderstand- “There are many gay priests committed to with Daley for the past 10 years at St. Francis Dooley died of cancer at the age of 34 in ing surrounding this.” celibacy, living a celibate life, and doing a beau- DeSales. She said the “Real Hero” award has 1961, but Notre Dame has made an extraor- Daley’s decision to come out occurs at a tiful ministry for the church,” Daley said. always been appropriate for Daley, but particu- dinary effort to keep his memory alive since time when both the Catholic Church and the Daley was at the center of controversy two larly now that he has opened up publicly about then by building notable memorials to him nation are grappling with changes in society years ago, when he was asked to step aside as his sexual orientation. around its campus, including a tribute room that have led gays to seek greater acceptance. main speaker at a 9/11 memorial event because “I think any time we live from our truth, in the student center and a statue of Dooley As recently as 2002, Vatican officials consid- there were plans for St. Francis DeSales to host we don’t know what those consequences will at the school’s famed grotto. In 1993, Randy ered barring men with “homosexual tenden- a gay and lesbian Mass. Local firefighters, who be,” Giarrusso said. “If others have a difficulty Shilts’ book “Conduct Unbecoming” revealed cies” from seminaries, The Associated Press were deeply involved in the execution of the accepting who we are or how we’re trying to a secret fact about the heroic figure who was reported. event, insisted that Daley be removed. live, there’s a sadness to that. But to betray one- once seriously considered for Catholic saint- In September of that year, the Rev. Andrew “All these other issues and crusades should self is the greatest sadness of all.” Baker, an American staff member of the not cloud what this one day is all about,” Daley hopes his public acknowledgment Congregation for Bishops, wrote an article for Assistant Fire Chief Russell Brooks said at the will ultimately educate people about homo- Jesuit magazine that said gay men “should not time. “Sept. 11 is supposed to be a day of unit- sexuality, and help others who are struggling be admitted to holy orders, and (their) presence ing and healing. I think it’s very inappropriate to come out. in the seminary would not only give him false for (Daley) to bring this to light on that day.” “I know that some people will not under- hope but it may, in fact, hinder” the therapy he Utica Mayor Tim Julian said the main stand and it may add to confusion on the part Growing Priesthood Dissent On

Sr. Jeannine Gramick receives the Tom Dooley Vatican Anti-Gay Rhetoric Award

365Gay.com, Newscenter Staff It calls gays “deviant and a threat to society” Marcoux said he has a large number of hood: Dooley had been ousted from the U.S. January 29, 2004 and tells priests to remind Catholic politicians gays and lesbians in his own parish. “For me, Navy for being gay. of their religious obligations to fight same-sex because of my experience ministering to gay Past recipients of The Dooley Award include Thirty Rochester, New York area priests marriage. and lesbian people and helping them under- Brian McNaught, a champion of workplace have signed a strongly worded letter protesting The document, prepared by the Vatican, stand the church teaching, I have to sign this diversity training and corporate domestic- what they call the Vatican’s violent language also says that “allowing children to be adopted document risk or no risk. It’s a matter of con- partner benefits; Virginia M. Apuzzo, who is toward gays. by persons living in [same-sex] unions would science.” the highest-ranking openly lesbian official ever The priests say they hope others will join in actually mean doing violence to these children” ”These people have value in our church. to serve in the White House; Phil Donahue, a the growing dissent to a 12 page Vatican docu- because the environment “is not conducive to They have gifts that our church needs. Every Notre Dame graduate and tireless champion ment containing some of the most strident lan- their full human development.” person has an inherent dignity because he or of gay rights for more than two decades; and guage the Church has ever used on the subject ”Language can destroy or build up,” said the she was created in God’s image.” Father Mychal Judge, the gay New York City of homosexuality. The document was released Rev. Joe Marcoux, a signer of the letter. Marcoux The Rochester priests join 23 priests from firefighter’s chaplain who died ministering to last July but is only now being implemented in serves Sacred Heart Cathedral, Holy Rosary and the Archdiocese of Chicago who signed a simi- the victims of the attack on the World Trade the Rochester Diocese. Most Blessed Blood parishes in Rochester. lar letter in December. ◗ Center (award granted posthumously). ◗ Spring 2004 BONDINGS Page 5 Chicago Priests Revolt Against Vatican Anti-Gay Stand By Steph Smith 365Gay.com, Chicago Bureau December 21, 2003

Nearly two-dozen Chicago area priests in an open letter December 19, 2003 have denounced the Vatican’s anti-gay rhetoric, calling it “vile An Open Letter to the Hierarchy of the Roman Catholic Church and toxic.” Saying they can no lon- Regarding the Pastoral Care of Gay and Lesbian Persons ger remain silent, the priests As Catholic pastors, we have become increasingly disturbed by the tone and, in some cases, content of documents and statements from parishes in both the city from the Vatican, bishops’ conferences and individual bishops on issues categorized under the heading of “homosexual” or “gay/les- of Chicago and the suburbs the bian.” We respect the teaching authority of the Church. Because of this, we fi nd particularly troubling the increase in the use of violent priests said the Church is being and abusive language directed at any human person. Such language is inappropriate. Th is is especially so when addressing members of “divisive and exclusionary” and the community of the faithful. Th ese divisive and exclusionary statements from the Church are contrary to sound pastoral practice. “increasingly violent and abusive.” Th e life journey in faith is unique and sacred, including the personal integration of sexuality and spirituality. Condemnations lev- It is the fi rst mass revolt in the eled at sincere Catholics attempting to make sense out of their journey are inappropriate and pastorally destructive. Catholic Church by clergy over the As priests and pastors we are speaking out to make clear that our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters are all members of God’s issues of gay priests and same-sex family, brothers and sisters in the Lord Jesus and deserving of the same dignity and respect owed any human being. Recognition of marriage. the inalienable dignity of the human person is the only path toward justice and reconciliation. We affi rm the goodness of all homo- “As priests and pastors we are sexual persons. We root ourselves in the U.S. Bishops’ statement “Always Our Children.” Additionally, we re-affi rm the understanding speaking out to make clear that our of the goodness of the human person as put forth throughout the papacy of Pope John Paul II. Further, we want to state clearly that gay and lesbian brothers and sisters ministering to and with our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters is mutually benefi cial, as is all ministerial activity. Pre-judging where are all members of God’s family, any believer’s journey will take them is inappropriate. Walking with them, as we do with our heterosexual brothers and sisters, is the brothers and sisters in the Lord Jesus appropriate Christian response. and deserving of the same dignity In the recent past, individual bishops, bishops’ conferences and the Vatican have assumed a tone of such violence and abusiveness and respect owed any human being,” toward these sons and daughters of the Church, we can no longer remain silent. Has any other group of people within the Body of the letter stated. Christ been so assaulted and violated by such mean-spirited language? Examples from the most recent Vatican document show all Th e priests said they were particu- too clearly the demonization of these children of God, referring to homosexuality as a “troubling moral and social phenomenon,” larly disturbed by Vatican documents “a serious depravity,” “the spread of the phenomenon,” “approval or legalization of evil,” “grave detriment to the common good,” that called gay sex and same-sex mar- “harmful to the proper development of human society,” “intrinsically disordered.” Does anyone consider this vile and toxic language riage as “intrinsically disordered,” “a invitational? troubling moral and social phenom- For many gay and lesbian Catholics, this most recent series of attacks has forced them, out of self-respect and self-love, to withdraw enon” and “harmful to the proper from active participation in the Church and question how they can remain members of a Church they experience as abusive. It is not development of society.” Such language possible to minister to and with the needs of our homosexual brothers and sisters with language of this tone as a foundation. is driving gays from the church, the let- Th e Catholic Church is most catholic when it is inclusive and embracing, and least refl ective of the gospel of Jesus when it is ter said. exclusive and rigid. For this reason, we also want to affi rm the many pastoral and positive statements by certain bishops and bishops’ In April a new Vatican dictionary conferences (e.g. “Always Our Children”). was released saying gays have no “social Th e Church’s theology, including her moral teaching, is always in dialogue with the broader lived experience of her members, value). A 12-page direction to clergy in which shapes and rearticulates the ancient deposit of faith. We encourage a new atmosphere of openness to dialogue which includes July said same-sex marriage was “deviant the lived experience of many Catholic members. We recognize the blessings of countless homosexuals in a variety of relationships. We and a threat to society”. In October, the believe their experiences must be listened to respectfully. Vatican directed priests in AIDS ravaged While we do not know the reasons for the increasingly violent and abusive language, we deplore it as ministers of the gospel of Jesus Africa to tell people not to use condoms Christ and ask that it stop immediately. Furthermore, we request that all those in offi cial positions of teaching authority in the Church because they will not stop the disease. refrain from any more statements directed AT the gay and lesbian members of the Body of Christ, and instead begin an earnest dia- Earlier this month the Vatican suspended logue WITH those same members of the Body of Christ. ecumenical talks with the Anglican Church For our part, we pledge to treat all who seek to continue their faith journey with us with respect and dignity, regardless of their over the consecration of a gay bishop in the sexual orientation. US. We join the countless men and women, heterosexual and homosexual, who seek justice, mercy and compassion in and through Cardinal Francis George, the bishop the Catholic Church. of Chicago, issued a response saying: “Th e We extend an invitation all who share our concern to duplicate this letter, sign it, and send it to their pastor, local bishop, National Rev. Patrick Tucker church speaks, in moral and doctrinal issues, Bishop’s Conference or the Vatican. Rev. Th omas Pelton St. Bernardine a philosophical and theological language in a (Parish names are listed for identifi cation purposes only.) Rev. Terry Johnson Maternity BVM Rev. Michael Forest Park, IL society that understands, at best, only psycho- St. Francis Xavier Chicago, IL Rev. Nicholas Herman logical and political terms.” Rev. David Baldwin LaGrange, IL Desmond St. Sylvester Rev. Daniel “Our language is exact, but it does not help St. Benedict the St. Aloysius Rev. Richard Whiteside Chicago, IL Rev. Patrick Lee us in welcoming men and women of homo- African-East Chicago, IL Prendergast St. Catherine of Chicago, IL Immaculate St. Mary of Celle Rev. Th omas Hickey Siena/St. Lucy sexual orientation,” he wrote. “It can seem Conception Berwyn, IL Rev. Brian Fischer St. Clement Oak Park, IL lacking in respect. Th is is a pastoral problem Rev. Daniel Cassidy Chicago, IL St. Gregory the Great Chicago, IL and a source of anxiety for me as it is for you. It St. Mark Chicago, IL Rev. Michael Rev. Bart Winters Rev. Robert would be good to discuss together.” Chicago, IL Shanahan St. Gregory the Great Rev. John Hoff man McLaughlin Rev. Donald Headley St. Mark Chicago, IL But George went on to say that pastors must St. Teresa of Avila Mary Seat of Rev. Dennis Condon St. Mary of the Chicago, IL “mediate the tension between welcoming peo- Chicago, IL Wisdom St. Marcelline Woods ple and calling them to change.” Schaumburg, IL Park Ridge, IL Rev. William J. Chicago, IL Rev. Richard Homa If “you cannot resolve that tension between Stenzel Sacred Heart Rev. Dennis O’Neill welcoming people as they are and still call- Rev. Lloyd Rev. Robert P. Heinz St. Francis Xavier Palos Hills, IL St. Martha ing them to leave their sinfulness and become Cunningham, S.V.D. St. Alphonsus LaGrange, IL Catholic Th eological Morton Grove, IL saints, or if you yourself do not accept the Liguori Union Prospect Heights, IL Church’s moral teaching on the moral use of Chicago, IL the gift of sexuality, it would be all the more important for us to talk,” he wrote. ◗ Page 6 BONDINGS Volume 24 Number 3 International News Briefs Archbishop Tutu to gays and lesbians as his remarks were to ous long-term consequences. The bishops’ problem and have to learn to live with it. And two young Americans who interviewed the conference submitted an eight-page response if they err, they will be forgiven. We must help Gives Hope for Gays Archbishop in 1995. to the government’s consultation on the pro- those people, not condemn them.” “There is no one who is a nobody. ... posals Oct. 1. The bishops argued that the He added that his church “rejects homo- and Lesbians Everybody is a VSP — a very special per- government’s proposals would undermine sexuality, not homosexuals.” son,” he said. And the Archbishop con- marriage because the institution would no In the interview, Joos was equally frank in By Andy Harley cluded: “Dream! Dream. And then go for longer hold a privileged place. “The signal the questioning the merits of democracy. Ukgaynews.org.uk it! … (If) this world can become a better law would send to rising generations is that “Politics, democracy. Don’t make me February 6, 2004 place — go for it!” marriage as husband and wife and a same- laugh,” he said. Archbishop Tutu had an equally poi- sex relationship are equally valid options and “The right to vote, what is that all about? Archbishop Desmond Tutu has said gnant ending for his Southwark sermon. an equally valid context for the upbringing I think it is curious a snot-nosed, 18-year-old homophobia is, to him, as “totally unac- “How incredibly, wonderfully, it is that of children,” they said. “By publicly elevating has the same vote as a father of seven. One ceptable and unjust as Apartheid ever God says to you, to me: ‘There is nothing same-sex relationships to a legal status virtu- has no responsibilities whatsoever, the other was.” you can do to make me love you less. I take ally equivalent to civil marriage, the signal provides tomorrow’s citizens.” And the former Anglican Archbishop you, I take you very seriously, I take you — given to society would be that these two states Toon Onsaer, Danneels’ spokesman, said of Cape Town, South Africa, in a sermon you — body and soul, you the visible and of life are equally deserving of public protec- Joos “does not speak in (the) name of Belgian at Southwark Cathedral in London, fired the invisible of you, I love you, I love you, tion and respect, when in fact they are not,” bishops” and that Danneels’ support for what amounts to an ecclesiastical torpedo I love you.’” they said. democratic principles was well known. He into the school of the Anglican Church that added that Danneels cannot reprimand Joos insists homosexuality is wrong. “because he comes under the authority of the “The Jesus I worship is not likely to col- Priest backs same-sex Belgian Cardinal: Vatican.” laborate with those who vilify and perse- marriage Up to 95 percent of Danneels is considered a candidate to suc- cute an already oppressed minority,” he ceed John Paul II, whose failing health has said. “I myself could not have opposed the The National Catholic Reporter homosexuals are fueled speculation he might step down, since injustice of penalizing people for some- March 5, 2004 he is no longer able to walk or to complete thing about which they could do nothing ‘sexual perverts’ many of his speeches. — their race — and then have kept quiet TORONTO — Fr. Timothy Ryan, 67, has as women were being penalized for some- filed an affidavit with the Supreme Court of By Robert Wielaard thing they could do nothing about — their Canada in support of same-sex marriages The Associated Press Scots Cardinal Uses gender, and hence my support inter alia, for and in direct opposition to a recent document January 21, 2004 Christmas For Gay the ordination of women to the priesthood from the Vatican condemning homosexual and the episcopate. unions. The definition of marriage should BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) — Belgian Attack “And equally, I could not myself keep include same-sex couples, said Ryan, who has Archbishop Godfried Danneels distanced quiet whilst people were being penalized worked for 30 years with the gay and lesbian himself Wednesday from comments by a By Peter Moore for something about which they could do community. “As with various issues touch- Belgian cardinal who said in an interview 365Gay.com, London nothing, their sexuality. ing on matters of sex and sexuality, many that up to 95 percent of lesbians and gays were December 22, 2003 “For it is so improbable that any sane, Canadian Catholics do not share the views of ‘sexual perverts.” normal person would deliberately choose the hierarchy, including myself,” he said. Danneels, who is seen as a possible suc- (Edinburgh) When Keith O’Brien was a lifestyle exposing him or her to so much Canada’s federal government has asked cessor to Pope John Paul II, said through named Scotland’s new Roman Catholic car- vilification, opprobrium and physical the Supreme Court to consider including a spokesman that Cardinal Gustaaf Joos’ dinal this summer there were gasps from abuse, even death. same-sex couples in the definition of mar- denunciation of lesbians and gays does not both the right and left. Dubbed a “leftie” by “To discriminate against our sisters and riage. The court is to deal with the question reflect the views of Belgian bishops but “is a conservatives and “a breath of fresh air” by brothers who are lesbian or gay on grounds by fall. personal comment.” liberals, O’Brien was expected to do nothing of their sexual orientation for me is as total- In an intervention with the court, the Joos, 80, made his remarks in an inter- less than shake up the church. ly unacceptable and unjust as Apartheid Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops view with P-Magazine, a news and entertain- But, as he donned his red hat, O’Brien ever was.” has argued that marriage is only between a ment weekly that appeared on news stands shed his liberal stand on issues like homo- He also saluted openly gay, but celibate, man and a woman and a draft bill support- Wednesday. sexuality and civil unions. After a few scant Canon Jeffrey John, Chancellor and Canon ing same-sex unions breaches constitutional “I am prepared to sign here in my blood months as cardinal he seems a cutout of his Theologian of Southwark, who last year freedoms of conscience and religion. Ryan is that of all those who say they are lesbian or princely peers. was appointed Bishop of Reading in the a member of the Scarboro Foreign Missions gay, at most 5 to 10 percent are effectively On the weekend he gave a Christmastime UK, only to stand-down less than a month Society, but society officials said his ministry lesbian or gay. All the rest are simply sexual interview with the Scotsman newspaper after the announcement. to homosexuals was personal, not an assign- perverts. attacking the state of immorality in con- “I hope so very much that you have got ment. “Don’t hesitate to write that down. I temporary society, saying people are “get- over the anguish of last summer and may I demand you write it down. If they (homosex- ting away with murder” with their stance on salute Canon Jeffrey John who acted with uals) come to protest on my doorstep, I don’t moral matters. so much dignity and selfless generosity,” English Bishops warn care. I will not open the door.” “It is not Christ’s teaching that if you hap- the Archbishop said. of consequences Joos — who studied with Pope John Paul pen to be homosexual then you can have a Archbishop Tutu is perhaps the most II and who was appointed cardinal last year partner,” he said. “It is not Christ’s teaching respected living Anglican. A theologian of of same-sex — was unapologetic. “I simply say what thou- that if your marriage breaks up, you can go distinction, he was the winner of the Nobel sands of people think,” he told the VRT tele- and live with somebody else. Peace Prize in 1984 and holds many honor- partnerships in vision network on Wednesday. “Gay unions and these sort of things are ary doctorates at universities in USA, Great Britain Joos made his comments in an interview becoming commonplace. Where is society Britain and Germany. on the state of Roman Catholicism in over- going at all? Is there nobody going to take a And what he said in Southwark Catholic News Service whelmingly Catholic Belgium, whose legis- stand? Cathedral this week gives support for gays October 1, 2003 lature legalized gay marriages last year and “We’ve had Christianity here for more and lesbians throughout the world as they may soon allow same-sex couples to adopt than 1,500 years and our standards have struggle for acceptance by the church, and MANCHESTER, England (CNS) children. plummeted in recent years. I think people in the their politicians. — Catholic bishops in England and Wales “Real homosexuals don’t walk the streets general do realize there has been a dramatic His remarks from the pulpit at warned that government proposals to recog- in colorful suits,” Joos said in the magazine fall in standards.” Southwark were perhaps as encouraging nize same-sex partnerships could have seri- interview. “They are people with a serious He added: “What are we going to do? Are

Continued on page 7 Spring 2004 BONDINGS Page 7 Cardinal’s decision shocks nun Sister granted doctor of ministry degree, but Ambrozic refused to confer the PhD

By MARY NERSESSIAN doctor of ministry program with the Toronto ing newspaper that has been published for 27 Chancellor, as the person conferring all Toronto Globe and Mail School of Theology, conjoint with St. Michael’s years. degrees. But soon after, a new batch of pro- March 8, 2004 College at the University of Toronto. It took “Personally, the incident has left me feel- grams was printed, replacing his title with her five years to complete. ing shaken and vulnerable,” she wrote. “It has Ms. Poy’s in the case of Sister Cathro and nine When the archbishop of Toronto refused A year into her degree in 1999, she heard also called me to deeper reserves of courage other absent conjoint degree candidates. to confer her doctoral degree, a Roman that the Vatican had ordered Catholic authors and strength.” “I really think the main reason is because Catholic nun called the church homophobic Father Robert Nugent and Sister Jeannine She said in the interview that the issue of the cardinal had a problem with this one — because her thesis was about lesbians. Gramick to end their pastoral work with her own sexuality was not relevant. graduate,” Ms. Poy said, explaining that she “This is a story of life rejected, of research homosexual people. Sister Cathro decided Mr. Alway told TheGlobe and Mail that he was called in quite suddenly. rejected, and of homophobia manifest in the then to focus her doctoral research on the did not want to speculate on what Cardinal She said she was disappointed not to meet high reaches of the Roman Catholic church,” topic of homosexuality and the church. Ambrozic may have been thinking, but he said Sister Cathro, especially because “her case Sister Christina Cathro wrote in the most In a recent interview from Edmonton, she it was understood when they spoke that the stood out because she was doing something recent edition of the Catholic New Times. said she was disheartened that the controver- cardinal’s decision was specifically because of obviously the Catholic Church is not com- “It is a distressing story, one I tell here in sy that had inspired her research four years Sister Cathro. fortable with . . . it was because of her case that CNT as a way of claiming visibility for myself, ago still exists today. Ms. Poy said Mr. Alway had called her to I was asked to be there.” and visibility for the ongoing life and struggle “I’d have to say that I was absolutely step in one to two weeks before the convoca- “There is absolutely no possibility that her of all lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered shocked,” Sister Cathro said. “I couldn’t tion. degree would not be granted,” Christopher persons.” believe that somebody could do that.” It has traditionally been Cardinal Lind, director of the Toronto School of Sister Cathro’s thesis was called Listening Sister Cathro, a member of the Sisters of Ambrozic’s duty to confer all conjoint degrees Theology, said. Students were free to research for the Echo: Contribution of Lesbians’ our Lady of the Missions, was unable to fly with the Toronto School of Theology as well whatever subject they wanted, he said, adding Journeys to Spiritual Direction and from her current Edmonton home to Toronto as degrees from St. Michael’s College. “the title of her thesis might have been pro- Theological Reflection. for the November, 2003, convocation at St. When asked to comment, the cardinal’s vocative from the point of view of some.” Her research looked at the contribution Basil’s Church and only heard about the inci- communications director, Suzanne Scorsone, In her New Catholic Times article, pub- lesbians make to spiritual life and included dent secondhand. said, “The archdiocese is not going to com- lished Feb. 29, Sister Cathro also wrote about gay-lesbian theories, theological texts and She said she was upset that the school did ment on any individual. the Vatican’s decision in 1999 to restrict feminist theory. not tell her of the archbishop’s decision. “The cardinal does what is appropriate as research into homosexuality. She received her doctorate last November. “I did not hear about this incident from Roman Catholic archbishop of Toronto,” she “I was shaken to the core of my person, However, St. Michael’s College president the official channels of the University of St. added. and my feminist sensibilities awakened at Richard Alway asked Senator Vivienne Poy, Michael’s College by call, letter or e-mail. Although she would not comment on new depths as I considered the injustice of the University of Toronto Chancellor, to confer Since the incident was about me and my the reason for the cardinal’s decision, Ms. Vatican decision.” Sister Cathro’s degree when Cardinal Aloysius work, this is both disrespectful and troubling. Scorsone said, “Everyone knows what the She also wrote, “I am keenly aware of the Ambrozic told him he “was concerned about A message explaining the controversy and teaching of the church is. pain, violence, and struggle that are involved whether it was appropriate for him to person- inviting my response would have been wel- “It’s just a question of what was appropri- in being lesbian. To deepen one’s spiritual life ally confer the degree.” come.” ate to the roles of the two chancellors,” she in this context is to affirm the struggle for Sister Cathro, who celebrated 25 years She chose to respond to the incident by said. justice as God’s yearning for justice, where in religious life last year, moved from New writing the first-person article for Catholic The original convocation program listed struggle becomes a name for hope and hope Zealand to Canada in 1998 to enroll in the New Times, a subscription-based, left-lean- Cardinal Ambrozic, St. Michael’s College is testimony to the divine spirit.” ◗

International News Briefs (continued) we just going to progressively decline into a Pope: GLBT those who believe in the importance of the The Netherlands and Belgium have extend- Bacchanalian state where everyone is just family based on matrimony unite.” ed marriage rights to all citizens regardless concerned with their own pleasures and to marriage stems from GLBT organizations immediately criti- of gender; Germany, France, Sweden and sleep with whoever they want? The future at cized the statements. Denmark have “civil union” laws benefiting times does look quite bleak on this.” ‘misunderstood “Well, it’s not surprising, given the news same-sex couples. O’Brien’s comments were greeted with rights’ of this year that the Vatican has stepped up This July, the Vatican launched a global dismay by LGBT rights groups. its rhetoric and is campaigning against same- campaign against same-sex marriage in a “It’s a very historic and outdated attitude sex marriage,” said Francis DeBernardo, the document saying that Roman Catholic poli- to believe that sex is only for reproduction By Christopher Curtis executive director of New Ways Ministry, a ticians had a “moral duty” to oppose laws and that no-one should enjoy it,” said David PlanetOut.com national Catholic ministry for gays and les- granting legal rights to same-sex couples. Allison, a spokesperson for Outrage. December 29, 2003 bians. DeBernardo described the Vatican’s “It’s ridiculous for the cardinal to come The pontiff’s statements come after signif- actions as “shameful,” remarking to the out with comments about sex at a time like In his weekly comments from St. Peter’s icant gains this year for same-sex marriage. Gay.com/PlanetOut.com network that “for this, ignoring the greed and rampant spend- Square, Pope John Paul II attacked same-sex In June, an appeals court in Ontario cleared Vatican leaders to speak authoritatively, they ing over Christmas. marriage Sunday, claiming “a misunderstood the way in Canada by ruling in favor of gay need to speak to lesbian and gay people about “The Catholic Church has lost much of its sense of rights” was fueling the efforts of and lesbian couples. In November, the high- their lives and their loves.” credibility as people lose faith in its obsession GLBT activists. est court in Massachusetts ruled it unconsti- Matthew Gallagher, the executive director with birth control and issues such as homo- The pope asserted this “misunderstand- tutional to prevent same-sex marriage, giving of Dignity USA, a GLBT Catholic group, had sexuality,” Allison said. ing” has “sometimes disturbed the nature the state legislature 180 days to rewrite the similar feelings, claiming that the Vatican In a statement Stonewall said: “This of the family institution and conjugal bond state’s marriage laws. attacks what they do not understand: attitude is totally outdated and very disap- itself.” He also made an appeal to anyone Even before these rulings, the Vatican “The pope made the statement on the feast pointing. opposed to same-sex marriage, saying, “It frequently spoke out about the increasing of the holy family. But he has a very limited is necessary that at every level, the efforts of legal recognition for gay couples in Europe. sense of what family is.” ◗ Page 8 BONDINGS Volume 24 Number 3 Church sets voter drive to fight gay marriage

By Yvonne Abraham said he would like to see Catholic voters galva- “Our intention is to have them become tive leaders told the Globe in January that the The Boston Globe nized over other important issues. responsible citizens on all issues of interest Catholic Church’s clout had weakened because March 26, 2004 “Everyone ought to be registered to vote,” to church and society, and we have a right to of the clergy sex abuse scandal. said the New Bedford Democrat. “But what has do that,” he said. “It just so happens this issue Fifty-one percent of the Catholic lawmakers The Massachusetts Catholic Conference is been troubling for me is that the first real effort is at the forefront, and in our view it is the supported an amendment by Representative beginning its first statewide voter registration I’ve seen in years has been a reactionary one, most important one of the day, and we had to Philip Travis that would ban gay marriage, an drive, in hope of ousting lawmakers who favor the first time in history they’re trying to change respond to it.” analysis by the Globe has found. By contrast, 56 gay marriage or otherwise fail to follow the the constitution and create a second-class citi- The drives will be made through parishes, percent of lawmakers of other Christian faiths church’s moral teaching in the State House. zenry. I would love to have seen that kind of said Dan Avila, associate director for policy and supported it. The Travis amendment failed The drive is designed partly to send thou- activity help me pass a bill on [requiring] the research at the Catholic Conference, in hope of 103-94. sands of new Catholic voters to the polls this fall church report child abuse. I think that energy reaching the recent immigrants who attend in Sixty-six percent of the Catholic lawmak- to vote for or against state legislators who have should be used to lobby for human service and large numbers and young parishioners who ers backed an amendment by Senate President been grappling with the gay marriage issue. poverty programs.” may not yet have registered to vote. Robert E. Travaglini and House Speaker The new strategy, announced in The Pilot, the Another lawmaker treaded carefully when “Churches typically serve the most under- Thomas M. Finneran that would ban gay mar- official newspaper of the Boston Archdiocese, is he heard about the registration drive. represented populations in terms of the rate riage and allow civil unions, the analysis found. surfacing just as lawmakers prepare for another “I think it’s great that more people will of voter registration,” Avila said. “Parishes set of votes on Monday when the Constitutional be involved in the democratic process,” said are among the few institutions that can reach Convention resumes to consider a proposed Representative Martin J. Walsh, a Dorchester groups that are notably under-registered, amendment banning gay marriage. Democrat. “I just hope they register Democrats. racial and ethnic minorities, new citizens, “A lot of people are frustrated; they felt I don’t think any politician should be viewed youth.” they wanted to have a say in this,” said Maria on one issue. I feel comfortable that I do an The registration drive is the latest in a series Parker, associate director for public policy awful lot of work in my district to ensure the of attempts by the church to sway legislators on at the Massachusetts Catholic Conference, voters continue to send me back to the State gay marriage. Last year, the bishops directed Boston Update the advocacy arm of the church in this state. House. I know not everyone agrees with me on priests to urge Catholic legislators to comply “The feeling is mushrooming throughout this issue, but I will get enough votes.” with the church’s teachings on the issue, and the state, and some feel politically homeless The effort is aimed at making Catholic to encourage parishioners to lobby those leg- because they feel neither party reflects their voices heard not only on gay marriage, but on islators. That amendment won preliminary passage at views and values. They are not being listened other issues also important to the church, said In January, a Globe survey found that 67 the end of the last Constitutional Convention, to, and this frustration has led people to say, D’Avolio, including abortion, capital punish- percent of the 199 lawmakers are Catholics, a 121-77. `You know what, I need to participate more ment, stem cell research, and casino gambling. disproportionate share in a state where rough- Globe correspondent Bill Dedman contrib- in the political process.’ And of course that’s But gay marriage is the most important issue ly 50 percent of the population is Catholic. As uted to this report. ◗ fine with us, because in the Catholic tradition, right now, he said. the gay marriage debate approached, legisla- participation in the political process is a moral obligation.” About 67 percent of the Legislature is Catholic, but lawmakers do not appear to be following the church’s repeated calls to both ban gay marriage and block civil unions for gay Gay Catholics struggle to maintain couples. The most popular measure in two ses- sions of the constitutional convention has been an amendment to ban gay marriage and allow faith in church civil unions. The church opposes both gay marriage and civil unions, calling civil unions By Yvonne Abraham 41. “It’s my faith. And I know it might sound But I’m 48, and I don’t have the rest of my life the equivalent of marriage. The Boston Globe ridiculous — I feel like it’s almost getting to wait till somebody in Rome has a trans- “Legislators who decide to vote to harm the October 13, 2003 more ridiculous these days — but I believe formative epiphany, and the goodness and institution of marriage — either by allowing God made me as I am, and that’s not a bad graciousness of gay life becomes apparent. “ same-sex marriage to stand unchallenged or Grace Kelemanik, Catholic and lesbian, thing. . . . It’s not like I could just go and pick Charles Martel, a psychotherapist who wor- by creating civil unions — will feel a backlash has worshiped with her partner at a suburban another religion: `Oh, I’ll be Episcopalian.’ ships at the Jesuit Urban Center, a South End in November,” The Pilot said in an editorial Boston parish for more than seven years. Their It’s what I believe and who I am. And [other church that has welcomed gays, knows plen- yesterday. baby daughter was baptized there. Kelemanik Catholics] get to see me and my family, and ty of gay Catholics whose membership in the The voter registration drive would be has served on church committees, taught reli- know we’re not all crazy sexual deviants.” church has not survived this year. the first effort on a statewide scale, said gious education classes to parish children. The competing tugs of faith and sex- “It certainly is a struggle, and there are Gerald D’Avolio, executive director of the But it’s not easy being both gay and Catholic ual identity have been felt keenly in times when it’s very easy to see how it wears Massachusetts Catholic Conference. The lately. Massachusetts, home to large, thriving people down,” he said. “People question you controversy has sparked intense interest in Not with the newly installed archbishop communities of gays and Catholics. The and wonder, `How do you do this?’ They politics, he said, priming Catholics for a reg- telling the faithful that gay marriage tears at conflict is made more intense because the shake their heads in disbelief, and at times I istration push. the family. Not with the Vatican declaring that Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court is think that myself: `Is it a healthy thing to be “It hasn’t happened on a large scale, where same-sex marriages “go against natural moral currently considering whether to grant mar- part of the church and be gay?’ “ we ask each of the dioceses to do voter regis- law,” and objecting to adoption by gays and les- riage licenses to gays and lesbians, making But Martel, 49, has decided that the only tration,” he said. “I think we have many more bians because it does “violence” to the adopted the state a major battleground in the war way to change attitudes in the Catholic Catholics interested in issues that are of a pub- children. Not with other gays and lesbians over same-sex marriage. church is to remain visible within it. lic policy nature. Laws are going to be made, turning their backs on the Catholic Church. While Kelemanik doesn’t think she has “It is our church, and so the idea of leaving it and they want to participate in it.” And yet, Kelemanik has stayed put. She to choose between her sexual preference and has this whole, being pushed out [feeling],” he The local effort will be buttressed by the remains Catholic, not merely because she her church right now, other gay and lesbian said. “I think that’s why it’s so important to United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, hopes to change the enormous institution from Catholics have been plunged into turmoil. stay, but to be visible and vocal. If you remain which encourages voter registration drives in within, though that is part of it: Kelemanik “I am very seriously considering how silent, that’s how you integrate the sense of churches across the country each year. stays Catholic because she was born into this much longer I can stay in a faith tradition shame and self-hatred, so you have to take Catholic legislators welcomed news of the church, and believes her Catholicism is as that is so hostile to me,” said Chuck Colbert, an active role. I know in time, as other things drive yesterday, but Senator Mark Montigny, immutable as her lesbianism. a gay Catholic journalist. “With the hind- have changed, the church will come to under- who is Catholic and supports gay marriage, “I was raised Catholic,” said Kelemanik, sight of history you see this, too, shall pass. stand [it was wrong about same-sex mar- Spring 2004 BONDINGS Page 9 Catholic Mass disturbed after anti-gay marriage video shown

By Mark Pratt Legislature renews debate on a proposed con- turbances Sunday and said he doesn’t know if Associated Press stitutional amendment that would ban same- other parishes showed the video. March 28, 200 sex marriage. ‘’It was made available by the Massachusetts ‘’I just found it to be such a scurrilous, Catholic Conference to any parish that wanted BOSTON (AP) A gay Catholic man inter- scandalous piece of misinformation,’’ Chuck it,’’ Coyne said. rupted Mass at a Canton church to protest an Colbert, the man who protested, told The In the video, a female voice, played over eight-minute anti-gay marriage video shown Associated Press. ‘’For me to sit there and take various images, urges listeners to contact law- during the Sunday morning service. it is out of the question.’’ makers to urge them to vote against both gay The man ‘’chose to disrupt’’ the service at Doyle said he called police to ‘’main- marriage and civil unions. It says civil unions the conclusion of the video supplied to the par- tain order,’’ but Colbert was not arrested or ‘’discriminate against the poor and needy,’’ detained. and will hurt the economy by paying out social Colbert is a freelance writer who regularly security survivor benefits. contributes stories published in the National The only other Catholic church in Canton, Catholic Reporter, an independent weekly St. Gerard, did not receive a copy of the video, paper that has endorsed same-sex marriage. according to the Rev. Bernard McLaughlin. He said the video, available on the Web site Chuck Colbert At St. John’s, the video was shown during www.preservemarriage.org, was played just the 9 a.m. Mass. Doyle decided to not show it Boston Update after Doyle’s homily. Colbert said he stood up, state legislators. during the 11:30 a.m. service, Coyne said. introduced himself as a gay Catholic, and pro- Archdiocese spokesman the Rev. Coyne said it was appropriate to show tested what he heard and saw. Christopher Coyne said Sunday the the video, noting that only Colbert objected. ‘’I said ‘I mean you no harm, I have to bear Massachusetts Catholic Conference regularly ‘’He’s not even a member of that parish,’’ Coyne ish by the Massachusetts Catholic Conference true witness,’’’ said Colbert, who was shouted distributes information, including videos, to said. ‘’He doesn’t even worship in Canton. He which defends traditional marriage, said the down by several parishioners. parishes across the state, and doesn’t need to was obviously alerted and decided to disrupt Rev. Michael Doyle of St. John the Evangelist The Archdiocese of Boston has been vet material through the archdiocese. that Mass.’’ church. politically active in the gay marriage ‘’For the most part, they are people who Colbert acknowledged he was alerted about The video “showed the need to preserve debate. Archbishop Sean P. O’Malley has know what they’re doing,’’ Coyne said of the the video, but that he’s free to attend any Mass. marriage as a union between one man and spoken at anti-gay marriage rallies, and the conservative group. ‘’I wanted to see how it was presented,’’ he said. one woman,’’ Doyle said, one day before the church has urged Catholics to write to their Coyne said he had not heard of other dis- ‘’I’ve never seen anything like that.’’ ◗

riage]. Some future pope will have to realize in those pews, but they’re there. They sing people is not approved, it has also been clear “I answer to a higher person than the this was an error.” in the choir, teach Sunday school, distribute that gay people have a place in the church and Vatican,” said John F. Kelly, also a member of While the messages from the Vatican on Communion, work in church offices, they the church itself should do outreach to gay the Jesuit Urban Center. same-sex marriage anger gays and lesbians, do all the things other parishioners do,” said people and the families of gay people, and pro- Kelly’s partner will not step foot in a Catholic many of them find the church a far more wel- Marianne Duddy, a member of DignityUSA, tect their rights,” said the Rev. Walter Cuenin, church, he said. Kelly and other gay Catholics coming place once they’re sitting in their own a national gay and lesbian group that has been pastor of Our Lady Help of Christians parish said they are sometimes challenged by their parishes on Sundays. critical of the church’s official statements on in Newton. Cuenin’s church is known in the friends, who don’t understand why they remain “The reality is that every Sunday, lesbian marriage and adoption. area as one that welcomes gays and lesbians, in a church that opposes gay causes. and gay singles and couples and families gath- Though the church has been clear about and hosts a gay and lesbian faith sharing “But I found a place to go and worship, I er for worship. They may be more or less out, its stance on same-sex marriage, and about group. found wonderful people, and I am answering they may be more or less comfortable sitting teaching that “sexual activity between gay He said he had seen many Catholics, to one person, and that’s God,” he said. including heterosexuals, struggling to stay in Besides, said Kelly, 60, it’s not as if he has the church over the last couple of years, not much choice. The heavy ritual in which he just because of its stand on social issues, but was raised, now inextricable from his spiritu- also because of the clergy sex abuse scandal. ality, has been impossible to match in other A Retreat-Workshop “It has been a huge test of their faith, and churches. some people have walked away,” Cuenin said. “I walked into one church, and I didn’t feel for Lesbian-Gay People, “Right now the big task for the church is to like I was in a church,” he said. “And I went to find ways to go after these people and bring an Episcopal church, it was almost as good but Catholic Parents, Families, them back.” not quite the same. I was brought up Catholic, Even without that outreach, Kelemanik and and it’s hard to leave it.” and other interested Persons other gays and lesbians feel mostly comfortable But even Kelemanik acknowledges her in mainstream parishes across Massachusetts, Catholicism, which seems indelible now, may just as divorcees and abortion rights support- yet prove untenable as the war over same- with Margaret Farley, RSM ers whose beliefs diverge from church teach- sex marriage intensifies. “My partner and I Oct. 29-31, 2004 ings do. They share an abiding belief that what talk frequently about what life will be like,” happens on Sundays in some Catholic parishes she said. “We’re looking ahead a couple of Attleboro, Massachusetts has little to do with edicts from on high. Some years and can imagine the gay issue is going priests chose not to read to their congregations to become the focus for the Catholic church a May letter from bishops urging all Catholics that the abortion issue had been, and it could Info: contact New Ways Ministry to oppose same-sex marriage and back a con- potentially get uncomfortable for us, and we stitutional amendment defining marriage only may bail. But for now, we feel we do more as the union of a man and a woman. good by staying.” ◗ Page 10 BONDINGS Volume 24 Number 3 Losing a Church, Keeping the Faith

By Andrew Sullivan to imagine it; no true solace but the Eucharist; tried to assassinate him. But he has not and the odds are that hostility will get even worse. New York Times no divine love outside of Christ and the church will not meet with openly gay Catholics. They I revere those who can keep up the struggle October 19, 2003 he guides. In that sense, I have not left the are, to him, beneath dialogue. His message is within the channels of the church. I respect church because I cannot leave the church, no unmistakable. Gay people are the last of the those who have left. But I am somewhere in Last week, something quite banal hap- more than I can leave my family. Like many untouchables. We can exist in the church between now. pened at St. Benedict’s Church in the Bronx. other gay Catholics, I love this church; for me, only by silence, by bearing false witness to There are moments in a spiritual life when A gay couple were told they could no longer there is and never will be any other. But I real- who we are. the heart simply breaks. Some time in the last sing in the choir. Their sin was to have gotten ize I cannot participate in it any longer either. I was once more hopeful. I saw within the year, mine did. I can only pray that in some a civil marriage license in Canada. One man It would be an act of dishonesty to enable an church’s doctrines room for a humane view of distant future, some other gay people not yet had sung in the choir for 32 years; the other institution that is now a major force for the homosexuality, a genuinely Catholic approach born will be able to come back to the church, had joined the church 25 years ago. Both had obliteration of gay lives and loves; that covered to including all nonprocreative people — the to sing in the choir, and know that the only received certificates from the church com- up for so long the sexual abuse of children but old, the infertile, the gay — in God’s church. true scandal in the world is the scandal of mending them for “noteworthy participation.” uses the word “evil” for two gay people want- But I can see now that the dialogue is finally God’s love for his creation, all of it, all of us, But their marriage had gained publicity; it was ing to commit to each other for life. shutting down. in a church that may one day, finally, become even announced in The New York Times. This I know what I am inside. I do not believe Perhaps a new pope will change things. But home to us all. ◗ “scandal” led to their expulsion. The archbish- that my orientation is on a par with others’ op’s spokesman explained that the priest had lapses into lust when they also have an option “an obligation” to exclude them. for sexual and emotional life that is blessed and In the grand scheme of things, this is a very celebrated by the church. I do not believe I am small event. But it is a vivid example of why this intrinsically sick or disordered, as the hierarchy last year has made the once difficult lives of gay teaches, although I am a sinner in many, many Catholics close to impossible. The church has ways. I do not believe that the gift of human Homosexuality: gone beyond its doctrinal opposition to emo- sexuality is always and everywhere evil outside tional or sexual relationships between gay men of procreation. (Many heterosexual Catholics, A Positive Catholic Perspective and lesbians to an outspoken and increasingly of course, agree with me, but they can hide and A new publication from New Ways Ministry shrill campaign against pass in ways that gay them. Gay relationships Catholics cannot.) I were described by the believe that denying First produced by the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Vatican earlier this year gay people any outlet Lesbian/Gay Outreach as “evil.” Gay couples for their deepest emo- Revised edition, 66-page booklet who bring up children tional needs is wrong. “catechism format” were described as com- I think it slowly mitting the equivalent destroys people, hol- of “violence” against lows them out, alien- Topics: Pastoral Ministry, Sexual Ethics, Civil Rights, Myths and their own offspring. Gay ates them finally from Stereotypes, Mental Health, Parental Concerns, Adolescent men are being deterred their very selves. Worries, and the Bible from applying to semi- But I must also Current bibliographies naries and may soon be finally concede that declared unfit for the this will not change as Order Form priesthood, even though a matter of doctrine. Please send: they commit to celibacy. That doctrine — never The American Catholic elaborated by Jesus ____ copies of Homosexuality: A Positive Catholic Perspective Andrew Sullivan church has endorsed a — was constructed @ $9.95 per copy = ______constitutional amend- when gay people as discount = ______ment that would strip gay couples of any civil we understand them today were not known benefits of any kind in the United States. to exist; but its authority will not change just Subtotal = ______For the first time in my own life, I find because gay people now have the courage to Postage and handling = ______myself unable to go to Mass. During the most explain who they are and how they feel. In Total = ______heated bouts of rhetoric coming from the fact, it seems as if the emergence of gay people Vatican this summer, I felt tears of grief and into the light of the world has only intensified anger welling up where once I had been able to the church’s resistance. That shift in the last Name ______Date ______contain them. Faith beyond resentment began few years from passive silence to active hostil- Address ______to seem unreachable. ity is what makes the Vatican’s current stance For some, the answer is as easy as it always so distressing. Terrified of their own knowl- City ______State ______Zip ______has been. Leave, they say. The gay world looks edge of the wide presence of closeted gay men Home Tel. ______Work Tel. ______at gay Catholics with a mixture of contempt in the priesthood, concerned that the sexual E-Mail ______and pity. The Catholic world looks at us as if doctrines required of heterosexuals are under we want to destroy an institution we simply threat, the hierarchy has decided to draw the Mail to: New Ways Ministry, 4012 29th St., Mt. Rainier, MD 20712. want to belong to. So why not leave? In some line at homosexuals. We have become the ways, I suppose, I have. What was for almost unwilling instruments of their need to reas- Make checks payable to New Ways Ministry (US funds and banks only) 40 years a weekly church habit dried up this sert control. past year to close to nothing. Every time I In an appeal to the growing fundamental- Pre-paid orders only Postage and Handling 5 or fewer—no charge walked into a church or close to one, the ism of the developing world, this is a shrewd U.S. Book Costs: $9.95 per copy, first 19 copies 6 or more: anger and hurt overwhelmed me. It was as if strategy. In the global context, gays are easily 20% discount—20 or more 6-10 copies—$10.00 a dam of intellectual resistance to emotional expendable. But it is also a strikingly inhu- 11-15 copies—$12.00 distress finally burst. mane one. The current pope is obviously a Further information: 16-20 copies—$14.00 But there was no comfort in this, no relief, deep and holy man; but that makes his hostil- e-mail: [email protected] $2 additional for additional 1-5 books no resolution. There is no ultimate meaning ity even more painful. He will send emissar- Phone: 301-277-5674 for me outside the Gospels, however hard I try ies to terrorists, he will meet with a man who Spring 2004 BONDINGS Page 11 Confronting the Bishops From Within the Church Gay Catholics Act Up

By Patrick Giles domination of the priesthood by homosexu- lovers and children. These efforts are chang- among gay Catholics (although Sabatino and Village Voice, New York City als.” And this summer the Vatican published ing minds ready for a new direction. Spurred Voorheis, the banished choir members, are November 12-18, 2003 “Considerations Regarding Proposals to in part by the church’s equally ridiculous con- said to be exploring other denominations). Give Legal Recognition to Unions Between demnations of birth control and a greater role “Gay Catholics who couldn’t handle things Just a few weeks before the consecration of Homosexual Persons,” for women, a culture like this [document] have made up their minds Gene Robinson as the first openly gay bishop a document that not of dissent has gained and left the church,” a New York City priest of any mainline Christian denomination, the only reiterated the Holy authority in American explains. “A lot of others are staying, and are Roman Catholic Church reminded gays that See’s revulsion to gay- parishes. Distrust of determined to stay.” old hatreds die hard. Michael Sabatino Jr. and ness but stated that the church leaders has Challenges to the church’s authority are Robert Voorheis, a couple who sang for years practice of gay adoption caused rank-and-file making it harder for Catholic homophobes to in the choir of St. Benedict’s Church in Throgs means “doing violence Catholics to lean heav- operate. “Look,” continues the New York priest, Neck, were married in Canada on October 4 to these children.” ily on their local priests who counsels gay parishioners, “everybody and then promptly turned out of the choir In the past, such a (usually more in touch has a gay cousin or nephew or grandson now. by their pastor. By wedding, the couple took statement would have with reality than the Nobody in the church can afford to say ‘Just a swipe at the church’s loathing of anything elicited angry silence hierarchy) and turn to fuck ‘em’ to gays anymore!” openly gay, sexual, and unashamed. In the face from gays trained to each other, in the pro- Does all this mean a gay liberation of the of such an abomination, says Joseph Zwilling, believe that Silence = cess recognizing, and in faithful is on the way? Probably not. “If anyone spokesman for the Archdiocese of New York, Faith. But silence has many cases welcoming, has the expectation that Catholic teaching on “a pastor has not only the right but the obliga- really equaled death for gay congregants. “I have homosexuality is likely to change sometime tion to act.” gays in the Church, and friends in my [Illinois] soon—say, under a new pope—they are likely But now gay Catholics are acting up in ways this truth is finally caus- parish,” Murray says to be disappointed,” cautions John L. Allen that not only question church teachings, but ing many gay Catholics matter-of-factly. “My Jr., Vatican correspondent for the National the authority it has bludgeoned them with. This to erupt. “How dare lover and I are always Catholic Reporter. And not everyone is speak- new development emerged at a sacred event on they?” hollered a gay Joe Murray invited to houses of ing truth to power. “People are still being hit Monday: the mass at the National Cathedral friend, the kind of fellow Catholics as a hard,” by church homophobia, insists Brendan in Washington, D.C. celebrating the annual Catholic who normally couple. There are wel- Fay, one of the first Catholic gays from New gathering of the United States Conference of doesn’t stand up to Joe Murray coming parishes all York to marry in Canada and the first to wear Catholic Bishops. Still staggering from rev- his mother (let alone over the country.” the Rainbow Sash at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. elations of sexual abuse by Catholic priests, the pope), after reading the “Considerations.” One well-known group is New Ways “There’s still lots of blood and tears to be shed the bishops donned their finest vestments. “How dare they accuse us of hurting children Ministry, whose executive director, Francis over this.” But lining up in the cathedral’s center aisle when . . . “ He didn’t have to finish the sen- DeBernardo, was teaching a workshop for Catholic radicals like Dorothy Day and was another group wearing sashes identifying tence. Catholic gays and their families and ministers the Berrigan brothers taught a generation that them as openly gay Catholics. “We are getting hundreds of new mem- when “Considerations” appeared. “People said activism is an instrument of (and a saving) These are members of the Rainbow Sash bers all over the country,” says Jeff Stone, who they felt ‘slapped in the face’ by the document,” grace. And so the convergence of religious devo- Movement, which began several years ago in is an active member of the New York chap- DeBernardo recalls. But he also notes a new tion and social activism that is as much a part Australia and is now catching on in the States. ter of DignityUSA, the largest American gay “resilience, a truer sense of identity,” sloughing of American Catholicism as St. Patrick’s Day By wearing the sash in church, its members Catholic organization, which has more than 50 off the insult. parades continues, led by a part of that church were performing an act of disobedience at least chapters for at least 3,000 gay Catholics in 30 A frequent response to church homopho- emerging and acting for the first time. “This is as shocking as storming down the aisle shout- states. Dignity has long walked a tremulous line bia has been to simply walk out to another going to take a long time,” Murray admits, “but ing slogans of resistance. Within a Church cul- between religious acquiescence and gay pride. faith, usually Episcopal. But even that church’s like other people, I see the workings of the Holy ture that has exploited the labors of gay priests But at its national convention in Las Vegas, recent ordination of an openly gay bishop Spirit in this, and seeing that makes it easier to and nuns for centuries—demanding absolute held by chance right after “Considerations” doesn’t seem to be spurring mass defections stand up for what I believe.” ◗ secrecy about their sexuality—receiving the was released, nobody preached patience and body and blood of Christ through a mouth that submission. “We all found the document’s tim- openly welcomes others of the same sex is per- ing very interesting,” says Stone. “It was clearly haps the most insurrectionary act American intended as a response to [the Canadian and gays have attempted in years. At last year’s U.S. developments] and to frighten people.” mass for the bishops, Rainbow Sash members DignityUSA immediately drafted and voted Maryland religious leaders were refused Communion. As Joe Murray, on a rebuttal. And this week, its members are spokesman for the U.S. movement, remembers in Washington, too. rally to support gay marriage it, “A lay spokesperson said from the podium, “When the bishops convene, we will attempt ‘There are those in this congregation who will to meet with them—as many as possible—to By Joe Crea sexual unions or marriage are recognized by be using the host as a sign of disunity; conse- continue dialogue,” says Matthew Gallagher, The Washington Blade the state, a lack of similar recognition of same- quently they will be denied it.’ “ Says Murray, the new executive director of Dignity. “Bishop March 26, 2004 sex unions or marriage is an unambiguous dis- “We’ll be back this year, anyway.” Gregory has said there should be no discus- crimination based on sexual orientation,” said Being a gay Catholic activist is not like sion with ‘dissenting organizations.’ That’s ANNAPOLIS, Md. — A group of 40 reli- Sister Jeannine Gramick, co-founder of New being a member of ACT UP. “You’re not just why this has to be done privately.” But there gious leaders told state lawmakers on Monday Ways Ministry and member of the National protesting government policy—you’re chal- is no shame in Dignity’s tactics, which reflect that gay couples should receive civil mar- Coalition of American Nuns, at Monday’s lenging the people you believe represent you an understanding of how to make progress riage licenses and many expressed their sup- news conference. “Such discrimination is to God,” a former AIDS activist explains. But within a church that seems to fear public expo- port for two pro-gay measures in the waning politically and morally wrong.” Some of the anger and impulses to fight back were inad- sure (“giving scandal,” as Zwilling puts it) even weeks of the 2004 legislative session. Equality officials urged lawmakers to support the Hate vertently encouraged thanks to attempts by more than damnation. Maryland, a gay rights lobbying group that Crimes Penalties Act, which would add gays church officials and right-wing laity (such as Other ways of helping gay Catholics find a sponsored the event, held its “first ever clergy and transgendered people as protected groups the Catholic League) to blame the debacle on proud place in the pew are appearing all over the lobby day” on Monday with officials from vari- under the state’s 1988 hate crimes statute and the mere existence of gay priests. The confer- country. In numerous dioceses, small outreach ous Unitarian, Presbyterian and Episcopalian the Medical Decision Making Act of 2004, ence of bishops’ leader, Wilton Gregory, notori- efforts are being made to know, listen to, and churches, including the Franciscan Friars of which would offer gay couples hospital visita- ously announced at a Vatican press conference respect the increasing numbers of gay men and Divine Providence and Conservative, Reform tion and medical decision making rights. ◗ that the real dilemma at hand was to “end the women coming to mass on Sunday with their and Reconstructionist Synagogues. “If hetero- Page 12 BONDINGS Volume 24 Number 3 At Notre Dame, gay film fest a first Some students call this week’s event a breakthrough for a religious school that officially brands homosexual behavior a sin.

By Ron Grossman dent newspaper, said the film festival crosses Television and Theatre to give the festival its The cost of the ND Queer Film Festival — Chicago Tribune what should be a hard and fast line. imprimatur. By ivory-tower tradition, academ- $12,000 to $15,000 — is being born by GALA February 11, 2004 “We support tolerance of homosexuals,” ic departments have the autonomy to bring to ND/SMC, an organization of gay and lesbian Brophy said, “We don’t find it appropriate at a campus any extracurricular event they judge alumni of Notre Dame and its sister school, South Bend, Ind—Last year the Princeton Catholic school to promote viewing of movies intellectually worthy despite what the admin- St.Mary’s College. GALA has more than 850 Review’s annual survey of American colleges that show inappropriate behavior.” istration might think of it. members. ranked the University of Note Dame as the Sean Vinck, a third — year law student, “Once Film and Theatre signed on as a Some gay grads look back on their Note most unfriendly to homosexuals. This week, is also unhappy with the prospect of the ND sponsor, we could put posters up advertising Dame experience with anger and memories of the school’s Hesburgh Library is the site of the Queer Film Festival. the festival,” Dacey said. “Up to now, we didn’t pain — among them Don Roos, the festival’s first ND Queer Film Festival. “The fact that Notre Dame would allow it to have access to bulletin boards. For that, you featured speaker. He went on to a Hollywood “You have to understand what a break- take place on campus points to an institutional have to be in an officially recognized group.” career, writing and directing films. ◗ through this is,” said Richard Friedman, a confusion,” Vinck said. “The university claims fifth-year student participating in the event. to adhere to the teachings of the church about “The university’s administration had even homosexual life-style, but at the same time it barred gay groups from advertising in the stu- bends to modern culture’s acceptance of it.” Former nun preaches acceptance, provides dent newspaper.” But even though the festival is ground- support On many campuses, eyebrows wouldn’t be breaking, its Byzantine format reflects the Continued from page 3 raised by a gay film series featuring titles such hoops a Catholic university has to go through as “Jim in Bold,” which kicks off the series when dealing with homosexual students. back emotion the next. Generally, the atmo- “What we think happens is they’re basically Wednesday. The festival was the brainchild of Dacey, sphere remains relaxed and congenial. “Group born with a birth defect, and this is difficult for During freshman orientation at state who has been active in gay and lesbian groups Rules” are posted on a wall near the door: “No a lot of people to understand,” says Dr. Collier schools and secular colleges, it is common- on campus. But because those groups are not judging or gossiping,” for instance, and “Self- Cole, a clinical psychologist and director of the place to see the information booth of a gay and officially recognized student organizations, responsibility.” Confidentiality is a must. Gender Treatment Program at the Rosenberg lesbian group. they couldn’t sponsor the film series. Cotterly says her goal is to give group mem- Clinic in Galveston. “Something goes awry But that is not the case at uni- bers the space to discover who they are and the inside the uterus while that fetus is developing versities affiliated with a religious confidence to live with their decision, which where the person is born with the anatomy of denomination that considers homo- can mean losing everything: job, family and one sex but the brain of the other.” sexuality sinful. friends. There’s no definitive test to determine Yet even at some such schools, “I tell people, ‘You can wear the wigs, whether someone is transsexual, he says. But things are changing quickly, given you can wear the makeup, you can wear the Cole’s research shows that on at least one society’s increasing acceptance of clothes,’ “ she says. “But you have to go inside sophisticated personality test, transsexuals alternative lifestyles. Deans and much further than you go outside” to discover scored more like the gender they wanted to be presidents are feeling the pressure the truth that will bring you peace, she says. rather than their anatomical gender. of gay and lesbian students, newly At the February meeting, the group hosts a The force propelling them toward a differ- determined to have an accepted speaker from the Fort Worth chapter of PFLAG, ent gender, he says, “reflects a biological imper- place on campus. Parents, Family and Friends of Lesbians and ative that they need to get themselves right.” “The landscape has changed,” Gays, which Cotterly founded. Toward the Cotterly agrees. “Why [else] would you put said Nicholas Sakurai, an offi- end of the hour, Laura, a former high-school yourself through the rejection — by your fam- cial of the United States Student football player, walks in with her mother and ily, by your friends, by your employer, by your Association, which is preparing a aunt. Only days before, she had returned from church? Why would you permit yourself to be guide to forming homosexual cam- Montreal, where she had undergone sexual- humiliated and called names: freak, gay, fag, pus organizations. “Young people reassignment surgery. sick, illegal, sinner?” have been coming out in droves in Richard Friedman (left) and Liam Dacey are involved in the “I memorized a phrase in French,” she And why would you potentially make first gay film festival a the University of Notre Dame. “There’s high schools since the 90’s. They’re been a fear on this campus to come out,: Dacey said. tells the group, beaming. “Je suis une nouvelle yourself more susceptible to violence, she adds. now in college and challenging femme. I am a new woman.” Though the streets are safer for transgendered administrators who would deny them a place “Because of Roman Catholic teaching, the The following month, Jenni, an MTF trans- people today than a decade ago, hate crimes in campus life.” administration feels we can’t have an organized sexual and retired police officer, reports to the against them are not unheard of. For instance, Boston College, a Catholic gay student group at Notre Dame,” said Sister group her success in getting her driver’s license Last October’s killing of a transgendered College run by the Jesuits priests, extended Mary Louise Gude, assistant vice-president for photograph taken as a woman. Jenni, formerly teen-ager in California received national atten- official recognition to a gay group last May student affairs.” known as Jim, has two sons, 9 and 14, who now tion. The trial of the three men charged with after many years of denying previous requests. But because the university distinguishes call her Mom instead of Dad. She was married Eddie “Gwen” Araujo’s death will begin in the “This film fest is our way of forcing people between homosexual activity — forbidden twice before deciding to act on a lifelong desire next year. to recognize that there is an active gay com- by church law — and people who happen to to be a woman. Locally, some support groups still rent near- munity here,” said Liam Dacey, a Notre Dame be homosexual — whose humanity it recog- “By the time I was 12 or 13,” she tells the by motel rooms where clients can change into senior. There’s been a fear on this campus to nizes — Gude chairs a Committee on Gay and group, “I knew something was wrong.” their male or female clothing, says Cotterly. come out.” Lesbian Needs. “Different,” interrupts Cotterly, pointing a But times are changing for the better, she says. Films in the series include “The Opposite of According to its mission statement, the finger at Jenni. Since the mid-’90s, when the Internet “explod- Sex,” a gay-straight love triangle, and “Hedwig committee brings faculty administrators and “Different,” Jenni repeats. “I knew some- ed with reliable sources,” the transgendered and the Angry Inch, ” the story of a transgen- students together “to assist in the implemen- thing was different.” movement has flourished. der rock star. tation of campus-wide educational program- Science has a long way to go before conclud- “I just am very hopeful that because of the Dacey hardly expects everyone on cam- ming on gay and lesbian issues.” But because ing what makes a person transgendered. Most knowledge explosion — from television, from pus, let alone old grads, to rejoice in their alma those educational efforts are limited to reduc- of the research has concentrated on transsexu- magazines, from books, from the Internet,” she mater hosting a gay-film series. ing anti-gay discrimination and homophobic als and suggests that the condition results from says, “that more and more people will be com- Christopher Trophy, a Greek major and behavior, it also couldn’t sponsor the festival. a fetus’s abnormal exposure to male or female ing out.” ◗ publisher of the Irish Rover, a conservative stu- That left it to the Department of Film, hormones. Spring 2004 BONDINGS Page 13 Homosexual community deserves equality

Editorial last campus before Notre Dame to hold the again in 1999 at a time when members of the open to free expression, intellectual growth The Observer “alternative lifestyles are not an alternative” community supported the expansion. Since and equality. March 19, 2004 distinction, initiated the T-shirt campaign. In then, Notre Dame’s homosexual and support The arguably successful Notre Dame a dialogue critical community have Queer Film Festival occurred in part because They made their point. Now, will the to the Catholic advanced even fur- several departments courageously supported University take action? Church and the ther, with Thursday it in the name of intellectual expression and Approximately 1,700 Notre Dame students intellectual cli- being evidence that academic freedom. As the Festival proved, and scattered faculty members joined together mate of the future, this marginalized discussion of homosexuality is not limited to and wore blaze orange T-shirts Thursday that Notre Dame is group is gaining Church teaching. Notre Dame’s administra- boldly stated “Gay? Fine by me.” falling behind. followers — and tive policies concerning it shouldn’t either. Regardless of the individual decisions The first step that students do To further its Catholic purpose, Notre behind wearing the shirts, the collective mes- towards true not accept blatant Dame aspires to promote peace, justice and sage of support for homosexuals was unmis- progress lies in exclusion, perceived reconciliation. But as long as it fails to pro- takable. The members of the Gay/Straight changing the excuses or silent mote acceptance, equality and recognition, Alliance — also known as United in Diversity, non-discrimina- ignorance. the real ideals of Catholicism and intellectual- an organization that was denied official tion clause. The Notre Dame’s ism cannot be achieved. Gestures such as the University club status on March 4 — should be Spirit of Inclusion Notre Dame Campus Catholic identity Spirit of Inclusion statement reveal respectful commended for their efforts to bring approxi- statement that has been cited as intentions, but stop just short of a true justice mately 20 percent of the University together in currently stands in its place walks a fine line the crux of University policy towards homo- and a true embrace. a show of solidarity for a group whose place in — on the surface, it values gay and lesbian sexuals. While Notre Dame’s Catholic iden- Thursday, a sea of orange reached out with the community has not always been clear. members of the community, but still reserves tity is central to its purpose, the University open arms. No administrative stance in recent Notre the legal right to discriminate based on sex- must also realize that it would not exist if it The University should follow suit by Dame history has elicited such overwhelm- ual orientation. The Board of Trustees voted was not an academic institution first. And accepting this diverse student group and giv- ing numbers to contest it. The alcohol policy down the expansion of the clause in 1997 and academic institutions at their foundation are ing them club status. ◗ changes couldn’t do it. Parietals couldn’t do it. But injustice towards Notre Dame’s homo- sexual community has. The avenues currently provided by Notre Dame emphasize individual counseling, which serves to only further classify homosexual stu- Gay Student Group Fights for Seton Hall Standing dents as outcasts in the community. Yes, the University appointed a Standing By Patricia Alex don’t tell.” Official church teaching condemns group. He admits the offer is a place to start Committee on Gay and Lesbian Student The Record,Bergen, NJ homosexual acts. but says the special standing funding smacks Needs. Yes, the University provides homo- January 16, 2004 “With public colleges, it’s pretty straight- of “hush money.” sexuals with Campus Ministry resources. forward – they have to recognize these groups,” “We just want a place at the table,” said But concerning both the official recognition Anthony Romeo says he only wants the said Nick Sakurai, director of the US Student Romeo, a junior from upstate New York. of a student organization and the inclusion of camaraderie and recognition that other stu- Association’s Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, and “We’re not asking for more or less than other homosexuality in the University’s legal non- dents at Seton Hall have. Trangender Empowerment Project. “With groups.” discrimination clause, the answer has been a After all, he argues, there are more than 100 private ones it’s a little more gray. I’ve seen Romeo said his group’s application for rec- firm no. students groups and clubs recognized on cam- Catholic colleges that do recognize LGBT stu- ognition didn’t follow regular channels and Now is the time for the administration to pus in which students sort themselves based on dent groups, but it seems to vary from diocese instead was bumped up to the archdiocese take notice of both of these issues, and deliver everything from ethnicity to hobbies. to diocese.” before coming back down as a denial. Jim a long overdue yes. But Romeo’s TRUTH organization At Loyola University in New Orleans, the Goodness, spokesman for the archdiocese, The Princeton Review’s recent distinc- – a support group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, school’s LGBT group, which started in the early said he was unaware of the issue. tion of Notre Dame as the most homophobic transgender, and homosexual student – has 1990s, has formal recognition and is funded by TRUTH’s faculty adviser did not return campus in the United States, therefore, seems had a tougher time of it at the Catholic uni- the student government, said Tyler Douglas, the calls for comment and Wankel’s office referred to apply more to the administration that per- versity. co-president. He said the group, called Etcetera, questions to a university spokeswoman. petuates this mentality on campus than to the The group’s application for university recog- encountered some resistance early on but now is Natalie Thigpen, a spokeswoman for the actual students who try to curtail it and speak nition was denied last month because admin- fully accepted and very active on campus. university, said, “We acknowledge the need out against it. istrators found it at odds with the school’s “The nickname for Loyola is Gayola,” said to work with students in this area through an The show of support Thursday began to Catholic mission. Douglas. “It’s a very, very gay school and it’s ongoing dialogue. … We want to work with dispel this sense of homophobia, but both “The most compelling guidance from the become a very open campus.” them to meet their goals but in a way that we’re recognizing a gay student organization and church directs us to care for the human person At Boston College, the school’s LGBT group sure will be consistent with the teachings of the expanding the nondiscrimination clause are whose fundamental identity is as a “child of has been around for 30 years and has been Catholic Church.” necessary to extending acceptance on that God” – not a “heterosexual” or “homosexual,” denied several applications for college recog- But Romeo feels the university has incon- essential group level. After turning down wrote Dr. Laura Wankel, vice president for nition. Closer to home, a group at Fordham sistently applied the “Catholic mission” ratio- United in Diversity, Vice President of Student student affairs. “No organization based solely University in the Bronx was denied recognition nale. He argues, for instance, that the spouses Affairs Father Mark Poorman wrote that upon sexual orientation may receive formal while another at the university’s law school at of divorced employees receive health benefits while he welcomes the opportunity to talk to university recognition.” Lincoln Center is recognized. through the university even though Catholic students who proposed the club, he does “not Though it denied the group official recog- The Seton Hall compromise seems to be teaching is opposed to divorce. want to create unrealistic expectations about nition, the university said TRUTH may oper- modeled after a similar setup at Georgetown Romeo said the group is needed since the likelihood of a change in the decision ate on campus, apply for funds from the office University following a lawsuit in 1987 by stu- there have been a half-dozen incidents of anti- about recognition.” of student affairs, and host education events, dents denied recognition. The courts found gay graffiti in campus dormitories in recent Talk and good intentions will only take the meetings, and programs. The group cannot, that a private university is not required to months. University so far. however, host social events or sponsor religious recognize a group but cannot withhold “tan- He, too, was a victim, when epithets were Notre Dame aims to be the national leader services or activities. gible benefits” available to all groups, including scrawled on his door in Aquinas Hall in among both Catholic and academic peer insti- The half-a-loaf approach is part of a bal- funding. October. tutions. However, Boston College approved ancing act that has played itself out at Catholic At Seton Hall, Romeo said he will discuss “We need a forum for discourse and discus- its first gay/straight alliance, Allies, on April colleges and universities across the country the university’s offer of a “special standing” sion,” he said. “I didn’t have then when it hap- 15. Duke University, the Princeton Review’s – Catholic academe’s version of “don’t ask, with some of the other 20 members of his pened to me.” ◗ Page 14 BONDINGS Volume 24 Number 3 Sturbridge convenes on gay marriage

By Mac McEntire “It’s going to happen,” he said. “They’ll get vent a 4-3 ruling in November by the Supreme Brewer also said he was in favor of putting Southbridge Evening News, Sturbridge, MA the right to marry, and the world will get worse. Judicial Court (SJC) to legalize gay marriage in the issue in the hands of the voters. February 19, 2004 You’ll see it happen.” the state. “All of us can learn from you,” he said. “We Pauline Sey of Sturbridge said she watched Proponents of gay marriage have argued want to give you a voice. You guide us as well.” STURBRIDGE — It was a room divided. most of the constitutional convention last that gay and lesbian couples should be entitled Brewer described what it was like to be a Residents spoke out both for and against gay week, and she found it riveting. to the 1,400-plus benefits that married hetero- part of last week’s constitutional convention. marriage at a public forum last night. Some “The legislators put their hearts and souls sexual couples receive. Civil unions would only “We were escorted into the building under shared personal stories about being separated into that debate,” she said. “But most of us have entitle them to fewer than 400 benefits. armed guard,” he said. “The energy, tension, from a loved one, while others said the mar- made up our minds. It boils down to people’s The Legislature will take up the debate and drama were unlike anything I’ve ever riages could have a damaging impact on the personal values.” again on March 11, Carron said. The legislators experienced.” entire nation. Sey quoted from the state constitution, say- at the meeting all spoke out in favor of letting Glodis said he supports the traditional The forum was presented by the St. Anne ing all people are born equal, and are free to the voters decide. Carron said that the debate is role of marriage being between a man and a Men’s Group of St. Anne’s/St. Patrick’s Parish. seek and obtain happiness. She argued that not a civil rights issue. woman, but also that he respects other people’s Sturbridge resident Robert Briere, an expe- choosing a partner for life is a basic human “What constitutional amenities are not opinions. “I believe in traditional family val- rienced Town Meeting moderator, led last right that should not be denied to anyone. offered to you?” he said. “You can go to school, ues,” he said. night’s forum. “If I see a gay couple in public I’m uncom- you can own property, you can vote, and on Glodis said he would prefer the issue to be “This discussion is important to our state, fortable, and I might cover my children’s eyes,” and on.” resolved with a ballot vote. the nation, people across the she said. “But that’s my Carron compared gay couples seeking “This is a strong and emotional issue,” he seas, and all humanity,” he problem.” benefits to other groups with similar requests, said. “Massachusetts is the cradle of liberty and said. Sey compared gay mar- such as veterans, senior citizens, and those democracy in the U.S. We should let democ- Briere said he looked up riage debates to the 1920 with mental or physical illnesses. racy reign.” “marriage” in the newest decision that gave women Hillman disagreed, saying that it is a civil At the end of the evening, Briere read edition of a dictionary. The the right to vote. rights issue. results from a poll taken from everyone at the first definition was “the state “Who am I to deny any- “You deserve a say,” he said to voters. “Civil meeting. Out of the 43 people present, 19 said of being united to a person one their full rights under rights are guaranteed to all of you.” they wanted to define marriage as between a of the opposite sex as hus- the law?” she said. Hillman said the SJC’s decision should not man and a woman with civil unions for others, band or wife in a consensual Sey further argued that stand, because the people do not elect its mem- 12 said they wanted it to be marriage between a and contractual relationship homosexuality is not a per- bers. The governor appoints the judges. man and a woman with no civil unions, and 12 recognized by law.” The sec- son’s choice, but that it is a “You elect and hold your representatives said they wanted marriage defined as between ond, he said, was “the state natural occurrence. responsible, and every two years you pass two loving people. of being united to a person “It is inherent and judgement,” he said. “The Supreme Court is “I’d say we’re almost equally divided,” of the same sex in a relation- innate,” she said. “It’s in not accountable to anyone.” Briere said. ◗ ship like that of a traditional Pat DeBenedictis, of Sturbridge, their nature. They are a marriage.” bows his head in frustration at last minority, and they deserve “That doesn’t mean you night’s gay marriage forum held at protection as a minority.” St. Anne’s Parish, Pauline Sey, of New Ways Ministry Financial Statement have to agree with it,” he Sturbridge. Shawn Kelley photo Finally, Sey said that said. although marriage has July 1, 2002 to June 30, 2003 David Lewcom of historically been between Webster said he has been in two serious gay a man and a woman, this does not mean it Statement of Revenue and Expenses relationships, one that lasted 15 years, and should not change. Revenue Total % of Total another that lasted five years. “We had to con- “Slavery was accepted for a millennia, and Contributions $ 64,173.15 36.8 stantly jump through hoops to protect our- it’s been abolished,” she said. “Just because Grants 51,500.00 29.6 selves from each others’ families,” he said. something has been accepted for a millennia, Investments 25,075.04 14.4 When his second partner was diagnosed that doesn’t make it right.” Programs 29,290.50 16.8 HIV positive, Lewcom said, they ended up Norman Meiklejohn of Sturbridge said Publications 3,698.51 2.1 being separated by his partner’s family. he feels the issue is not about civil rights, but Other 439.96 .3 “He got sicker and sicker, and his family about human rights and human dignity. Total Revenue $ 174,177.16 100% prevailed,” Lewcom said. “He went off to live “If a young man realizes he’s gay, he has with them in another state.” nothing to look forward to,” Meiklejohn said. Expenses Total % of Total Lewcom argued that the issue centers on “He’ll have to repress, or end up in a dangerous Contributions $ 2,822.00 1.7 changing the definition of the word “mar- relationship.” Salaries and benefits 100,470.65 60.8 riage.” By offering marriage to gay people, Telephone, equipment, supplies 3,078.91 1.9 “It’s just a word. Words change,” he said. Meiklejohn said, it could give them hope to Postage and printing 18,848.77 11.4 “We’re privileged to be part of the change.” lead normal lives. Occupancy 6,361.75 3.8 Lewcom said area residents often have what “My contention is if society gives them dig- Travel and conferences 16,694.48 10.1 he called “a mill town mentality,” with the nity, gays can aspire to stable, worthwhile rela- Depreciation 5,327.00 3.2 majority of people afraid of change. tionships, and not be dying of AIDS,” he said. Fees and payroll taxes 7,717.12 4.7 “If there was a pill to make me straight, I Joining 43 area residents at the meeting were Staff Dev., library, PR, consultation 3,923.50 2.4 would kill for it,” he said. “But we play the cards state Reps. Mark J. Carron, D-Southbridge, Total expenses $ 165,244.18 100.0 we’re dealt.” and Reed V. Hillman, R-Sturbridge, and state Fund balance, beginning of year 299,973.28 Not everyone agreed. Sens. Stephen M. Brewer, D-Barre, and Guy W. Dennis Bousquet of Southbridge cited the Glodis, D-Auburn. Excess for year 8,932.98 Bible, saying God created man and woman, Last week, state lawmakers debated the issue Other changes in net assests 37.38 commanding them to be fruitful. during a two-day constitutional convention, Fund balance, end of year 308,943.64 “How does a man be fruitful with another with emphasis on an amendment that would man?” he said. have defined marriage as a union between a * Approximately $209,000 of the current fund balance represents a reserve for thirteen months opera- Bousquet said he feels that legalizing gay man and a woman, leaving an option open for tional expenses. The fund balance also includes land, building, and equipment assets of approximately marriage would have a damaging effect on the civil unions as an alternative for gay couples. $100,000. nation. The convention was an effort to circum- Spring 2004 BONDINGS Page 15 Australian Brother Gay Friendly Parishes joins New Ways staff Below is a partial list of known “gay-friendly” Catholic parishes and faith communities. Thank you for Australian Brother, Terence Cant has joined helping us add to this growing list! If you are aware of such a parish that is known as welcoming lesbian and New Ways Ministry as Staff Associate. Hailing gay Catholics as members and active parishioners, please let us know. Tell us if this welcome is because of from Fremantle, Western Australia, Terry is a support program, spirituality group, mission statement, participation in gay community events, involve- a member of the Congregation of Christian ment with parents, or simply the friendliness of pastoral staff. Brothers. He taught English and History predomi- Alabama District of Columbia Michigan nately in Upper School in several Australian Montgomery: St. Bede Dahlgren Chapel-Georgetown St. Ignace: St. Ignatius Loyola states and was involved in administration for Arizona University, Holy Trinity, Missouri many years. For six years, he served as principal St. Aloysius, St. Matthew of a high school in Kalgoorlie, a country town Mesa: Christ the King Cathedral Kansas City: Cathedral of the Cleveland: Ascension of and gold-mining Scottsdale: Franciscan Renewal Florida Immaculate Conception, Our Lord,, Gesu Parish center in Western Center St. Francis Xavier (University Heights), Australia. Tempe: All Saints Catholic Cassellberry: St. Augustine St. Louis: Holy Family, Holy St. Ladislas (Westlake), For approxi- Newman Center Ft. Lauderdale: St. Anthony, Innocents, St. Cronan, St. Malachi, St. JohnVianny mately three years, Tuscon: Ss. Peter and Paul, St. Maurice St. Margaret of Scotland, (Mentor), St. Mary of the Terry worked as St. Pius X, Our Mother of Melbourne: Ascension Parish St. Pius V Immaculate Conception campus minister at Sorrows, St. Odilia Naples: St. John the Evangelist Minnesota (Wooster) the newly founded California Winter Haven: St. Matthew Columbus: St. Thomas More University of Notre Georgia Minneapolis: St. Frances Newman Center, Ohio State Dame Australia in Berkeley: Holy Spirit Parish Cabrini, St. Joan of Arc, University Br. Terence Cant Fremantle. Claremont: Mother of Good Atlanta: Shrine of the St. Stephen Dayton: University of Dayton After receiv- Counsel, Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception St. Paul: College of Campus Ministry ing a BA, Brother Cant completed a Diploma Assumption Illinois St. Catherine, University of in Religious Education at Dundalk, Ireland Eagle Rock: St. Dominic’s St. Thomas Oregon in 1980-81. In 1995-96, he trained as a spiri- Goleta: St. Mark’s University Berwyn: St. Mary of the Celle New Jersey tual director at Mercy Center, in Burlingame, Parish Chicago: Loyola University Central Point: Shepherd of the California. Terry is presently completing a Hawthorne: St. Joseph’s Chicago, St. Clement Clifton:St. Brendan Valley Doctor of Ministry degree at San Francisco (Spanish) Country Club Hills: St. Emeric Wayside: St. Anselm’s Portland: Koinonia Catholic Theological Seminary in San Anselmo, LaPuente: St. Martha Morton Grove: St. Martha New Mexico Community, St. Andrew, California. Long Beach: St. Matthew’s Indiana St. Phillip Neri, St. Vincent During his tenure in California, Terry felt Los Angeles: Blessed Sacrament, Espanola: Sacred Heart of Jesus de Paul privileged to volunteer at San Quentin for near- Christ the King, Loyola- Evansville: St. Mary New York Pennsylvania ly two years, assisting in conducting a prayer Marymount University, Notre Dame GALA Notre group. He has a keen interest in social justice, Mother of Good Counsel, Dame/St. Mary’s College Brooklyn: St. Andrew the Philadelphia: Old St. Joseph’s, particularly within the Catholic Church, and St. Camillus Center-LA USC Iowa Apostle, St. Boniface Old St. Mary’s, St. John the especially as it affects the poor and marginal- Medical Center (Spanish), East Islip: St. Mary Evangelist, St. Vincent de ized in our society. ◗ St. Paul the Apostle Iowa City: St. Thomas More Long Island: SS. Cyril and Paul North Hollywood: St. Jane Kentucky Methodius, Deer Park; York: St. Joseph Frances de Chantal, St. Bridget’s, Westbury; Texas St. Patrick’s Louisville: Epiphany, Cathedral St. Elizabeth, Melville New Administrative Sacramento: St. Francis of Assisi of the Assumption, Manhattan: Holy Name of Austin: University Catholic San Diego: Christ the King, Our St. William’s Jesus, St. Joseph (Greenwich Center-University of Texas Staff Member at Lady of the Sacred Heart, Maine Village), St. Francis Xavier, Dallas: Holy Trinity St. Didicus St. Paul the Apostle Plano: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton New Ways Ministry San Francisco: Most Holy Saco: Most Holy Trinity Rochester: Emmanuel Church San Antonio: University of the Redeemer, Old St. Mary’s Maryland of the Deaf, St. Augustine, Incarnate Word Erin McClure has joined New Ways Ministry Cathedral St. John the Evangelist Virginia as a Staff Associate, helping with various office San Rafael: Church of San Baltimore: Corpus Christi, (Humboldt St.), St. Mary’s, St. management duties with databases and finan- Rafael & Mission San Rafael Loyola College, St. Francis of Monica Arlington: Our Lady Queen of cial records. Erin, an upstate New York native, Archangel Assisi, St. Philip and James Syracuse: St. Andrew the Peace graduated in May 2003 from SUNY Geneseo, Santa Clara: GALA, Santa Clara Columbia: St. John the Apostle Richmond: Cathedral of the near Rochester, with a Batchelor’s degree in University Evangelist Utica: St. Francis DeSales Sacred Heart, Sacred Heart English with Santa Cruz: Holy Cross Gaithersburg: St. Rose of Lima North Carolina Parish S e c o n d a r y Santa Monica: St. Monica’s Hagerstown: St. Ann Roanoke: St. Gerard’s Education cer- Spring Valley: Santa Sophia Severn: St. Bernadette Charlotte: St. Peter Virginia Beach: St. Nicholas tification. She is Valinda: St. Martha’s Massachusetts Durham: Immaculate Washington currently work- West Hollywood: St. Ambrose, Conception ing for Notre St. Victor’s Boston: Boston College, Jesuit Fayetteville: St. Patrick Seattle: St. Benedict Dame Mission Whittier: St. Mary of the Urban Center/Immaculate Raleigh: St. Francis of Assisi West Virginia Volunteers- Assumption Conception, Paulist Center Ohio AmeriCorps as Colorado Newton: Our Lady Help of Shepherdstown: St. Agnes a young adult Christians Akron: St. Bernard, St. Martha Wisconsin GED instructor Boulder: St. Thomas Aquinas Provincetown: St. Peter the Cincinnati: Lesbian/Gay in Washington, Denver: St. Dominic’s Apostle Ministry, Xavier University; Madison: St. Benedict Center Erin McClure DC. With any Connecticut Sharon: Our Lady of Sorrows St. Monica-St. George Sunday Assumbly spare time she Worcester: Holy Cross College Newman Center, University Milwaukee: Prince of Peace, loves to play sports or read. Next year, Erin Hartford: St. Patrick- of Cincinnati Trinity-Guadalupe plans to attend graduate school to work toward St. Anthony Wauwatosa: St. Pius X her Masters of Education in special education or English education. ◗ Page 16 BONDINGS Volume 24 Number 3 Pell cousin takes issue on gay stance

By Barney Zwartz dwellers in Chile. Ms Hingston was a Mercy generous, open, accepting, deeply empathetic,” Th e Age Her father is Cardinal Pell’s cousin, making nun for 26 years, including 10 in Chile and the she wrote. “However, it is our relationship, not Melbourne, Australia her second cousin once removed. “George prob- rest working for the marginalised in Australia. who we are or what we do for others, that is of January 12, 2004 ably wishes I was much further removed,” she “Even had we not chosen a life of commitment prime concern to the Vatican prelates.” ◗ joked. and dedication to others in religious commu- A llesbianesbian formerformer nunnun whowho isis a secondsecond cousincousin InIn hherer article,article, MsMs HingstonHingston saidsaid herher partnerpartner nity,nity, ourour generalgeneral attitudeattitude toto peoplepeople isis compas-compas- ofof CardinalCardinal GeorgeGeorge PellPell hashas publiclypublicly challengedchallenged spentspent 3535 yearsyears asas a FranciscanFranciscan nun,nun, 2727 ofof themthem s i o n a t e, himhim ooverver thethe CatholicCatholic Church’sChurch’s hardlinehardline stancestance withwith o oppressedppressed slum-slum- against homosexuality. Monica Hingston, who says she knows the former arch- The Catholic Church’s stance against same-sex couples ignores so much that bishop of Melbourne sex couples have even being heard, let alone well, wrote to him we can offer cern that he had not received the fi rst one. granted access to the same level of justice as last August aft er the In December, I then attempted three times, heterosexual couples. Vatican reaffi rmed By Monica Hingston I look forward to George’s reply. Sydney Morning Herald unsuccessfully, to make contact with him by the Catholic teaching I encourage other people to contact their January 12, 2004 phone. that practising homo- I decided to make this an open letter to Catholic clergy family members for similar Th e following letter was sent to Cardinal ◗ sexuals are “seriously the Cardinal in the hope that by making it discussions. George Pell last August, and some weeks later depraved”. public, it may highlight the diffi culties same- InIn t thehe l letteretter MsMs when no reply was forthcoming, a copy was HingstonHingston challengedchallenged DrDr sent with a covering letter expressing con- PellPell t too looklook h herer inin thethe eyeeye andand callcall herher “cor-“cor- Dear George, rupt,rupt, d debased,ebased, v vicious,icious, Th e recent pronouncement from the Vatican re same-sex relationships has prompted me to write. vile,vile, wicked,wicked, d degenerate”egenerate” I want to put my concerns to you, George, as one who is family (albeit somewhat removed) and as one who, given your vocation, has chosen — wwordsords sshehe ssaysays areare syn-syn- to commit yourself to the wellbeing of others. onyms for depraved. My partner and I have just celebrated 19 years together. To read that the Vatican has declared us to be “seriously depraved persons” has “To“To readread thatthat thethe VaticanVatican appalled and angered me. Synonyms for depraved are “corrupt”, “debased”, “vicious”, “vile”, “wicked”, “degenerate”. You will be expected to rein- hashas ddeclaredeclared uuss ttoo bbee ‘‘seri-seri- force these sentiments in the hearts and minds of your Catholic brethren, and when occasions permit, to the wider society. It is hard to imagine ouslyously depraveddepraved persons’persons’ hashas that you would actually be able to look me in the eye and tell me any of those adjectives could truthfully describe me. And surely you wouldn’t appalledappalled a andnd a angeredngered me,”me,” insult my intelligence by prefacing it with “it’s the sin, not the sinner” stuff . she wrote. My partner has given more than half her life, 35 years, to the service of others as a Franciscan nun, 27 of those years living with people suf- MsMs H Hingstoningston saidsaid sheshe fering extreme hardship and oppression in the slums of Chile, and 17 under a brutal, tyrannical regime. I spent 26 years as a Mercy nun, 10 of wrotewrote toto CardinalCardinal PPellell aagaingain those under the same dictatorship in Chile, and the rest working for the rights of the oppressed and marginalised in Australia. Even had we not lastlast m month,onth, andand triedtried threethree chosen a life of commitment and dedication to others in a religious community, our general attitude to people is compassionate, generous, open, timestimes toto ringring hhim,im, aaftft eerr wwhichhich accepting, deeply empathic, and the work we have taken on has always been in the context of advocacy, human rights, elimination of oppressive sheshe decideddecided toto makemake herher letterletter systems, and empowerment of the individual. anan openopen one.one. ItIt isis publishedpublished inin However, it is our relationship, not who we are or what we do for others, that is of prime concern to the Vatican prelates. So let me briefl y Th e Age today. describe for you, George, that relationship of 19 years. It is a rare and precious gift . A partnership of sensitivity and selfl essness, of warmth and DrDr Pell,Pell, nownow ArchbishopArchbishop ofof humour, of wonder and beauty. It is fundamental to personal growth, it has enabled me to face my own formidable challenges with courage, it Sydney,Sydney, yesterdayyesterday gavegave Th ee AAgege daily enriches me, it empowers me to work for the well-being of others, to accept, appreciate and value the richness and diversity of individuals. a shortshort statement.statement. ItIt said:said: “Th“Th ee In short, it is life-giving. Numerous people who know us as a couple have wanted to know the secret of what makes our relationship so special. Church’sChurch’s vviewsiews aarere wwellell kknownnown Many of those who ask are heterosexual couples whose own relationships are sadly lacking what we two experience. andand willwill notnot change.change. I supportsupport Th e gift s we have received from each other, and consequently are able to give to others, would be values and ethics the Vatican portrays as them.them. InIn thesethese situationssituations thethe intrinsic to basic Christian life. Still, that is not the crux of the matter. All these aspects are ignored, because the Vatican is wholly focused on fi rrstst 1 111 versesverses ofof ChapterChapter 8 ofof what we do in bed. Th ese prelates are obsessed with how we physically show our love for each other. On what does the Vatican base its dictate StSt John’sJohn’s GospelGospel g giveive foodfood forfor that it would be gravely immoral for Catholics to recognise our union? If it is that our expression of love for each other will not produce children, thought.thought. I wishwish MonicaMonica wellwell andand then logically it would follow that no post-menopausal woman should marry, nor those who have had a hysterectomy, nor infertile couples. Th e acknowledgeacknowledge thethe contributioncontribution sheshe Vatican prelates have the audacity to condemn the rearing of children by homosexual couples, and to add insult to injury, make the preposterous hashas mmade.ade. I continuecontinue toto regretregret thethe pronouncement that this would, in eff ect, be doing violence to these children. path she has chosen.” Have any of these men ever spoken with these couples, ever observed the children? Th e Vatican document also says that recognition of homo- (Th(Th ee p passageassage r referredeferred t too b byy sexual unions would “obscure basic values which belong to the common inheritance of humanity”. In terms of my relationship with my partner, CardinalCardinal PPellell iiss tthehe aaccountccount ooff thethe what could that possibly mean? Th e society at large would consider our lives to be grounded in basic Christian values. No, we are not reproducing womanwoman takentaken inin adultery,adultery, wherewhere ourselves, but is that the prime reason for our existence? If so, then you and I, George, should have been quietly disposed of a long time ago. JesusJesus saidsaid “let“let himhim whowho isis withoutwithout An astonishing aspect of the recent proclamation from Rome is the sheer arrogance of these men to presume to dictate to elected governments sinsin castcast thethe fi rstrst stone”,stone”, butbut alsoalso tellstells of the world, and Catholic politicians in particular, that they act to prevent our unions being recognised, or if unable to do so, to repeal as far as thethe woman,woman, “go“go andand sinsin nono more”.)more”.) possible any existing laws already acknowledging our rights to be who we are. It defi es belief, but this is not the issue I am asking you to respond MsMs Hingston,Hingston, 63,63, hashas beenbeen withwith to here. herher partner,partner, PegPeg Moran,Moran, forfor 1919 years.years. What I am really wanting from you, George, is a response that is personal, that comes from the heart, that is based on your knowledge of who SheShe saidsaid yesterdayyesterday sheshe waswas notnot sur-sur- I am, simply a response of one human being to another striving to live life as it should be lived. Please don’t quote the scriptures at me — as we prisedprised atat CardinalCardinal Pell’sPell’s response,response, both know, “the devil” can quote it for his own evil purposes, and many throughout history have done so. becausebecause hhee hhadad ttoo ffollowollow tthehe VVaticanatican To sum up, George, I am concerned that in your role, you are required to reinforce and promulgate these vicious condemnations from line,line, butbut itit saddenedsaddened her.her. “I“I wantedwanted Rome. himhim t too m makeake s someome statementstatement aboutabout All I ask is that you consider what you are actually saying to thousands like us, that you actually hear and refl ect on what we tell you of our whowho I a amm a ass a p personerson t too h him,”im,” s shehe life experience, that we are people who live ethical, highly principled, moral lives, an asset to any society striving to engender loving, committed said.said. “It’s“It’s veryvery disappointingdisappointing thatthat I gotgot relationships among its citizens. Regards, nono responseresponse otherother thanthan scripture.”scripture.” SheShe I look forward to hearing from you, Your cousin Monica foundfound thethe offioffi cialcial CatholicCatholic teachingteaching insultinginsulting aandnd degrading.degrading.