B NDINGS Vol. 35, No. 1 A Publication of New Ways Ministry Spring/Summer 2015 LGBT Catholic group gets VIP treatment at the Vatican

By Phillip Pullella passed, they sang "All Are Welcome," a Reuters hymn symbolizing their desire for a February 2, 2015 more inclusive Church. A list of participants released by the A prominent American Catholic Vatican listed "a group of lay people rights group was given VIP treatment for accompanied by a sister" but did not the first time at an audience with Pope mention that they were a gay rights or- Francis on Wednesday, a move members ganization. saw as a sign of change in the Roman "What this says is that there is move- . ment in our Church, movement to wel- "This is a sign of movement that's due come people from the outside closer to to the Francis effect," said Sister Jeannine the inside," Gramick said in St. Peter's Gramick, co-founder of New Ways Minis- Square. try, which ministers to homosexual Catho- Several months after his election, lics and promotes gay rights in the 1.2 Francis made his now-famous remark billion-member Church. about how he could not judge gay peo- Gramick and executive director Francis ple who are have good will and are DeBernardo led a pilgrimage of 50 homo- seeking God. sexual Catholics to the audience in St. But he so far shown no sign the Peter's Square. Church will change its teaching that They told Reuters in an interview after- while homosexuality is not sinful, ho- wards that when the group came to Rome mosexual acts are. on Catholic pilgrimages during the papa- Last October, bishops from around the New Ways Ministry pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, February 18, 2015. cies of Francis's predecessors John Paul world meeting in Rome to debate ques- and Benedict, "they just ignored us." tions concerning family issued an inter- This time, a U.S. bishop and a top Vati- im report calling for greater acceptance servative bishops complained. A second couples and other non-traditional can official backed their request and they of gays in the Church. and final meeting on family issues is families should be invited to the meeting, sat in a front section with dignitaries and That passage was watered down in the scheduled for October. known as a , to speak to the bishops special Catholic groups. As the pope final version of the report after con- DeBernardo said Catholic gay and about their faith and their sexuality. 

By Jeannine Gramick, SL National Catholic Reporter June 5, 2015 to leave, I composed a respectful letter Rome, Cardinal Wuerl suggested that ushers led us to the highest level near the to the pope, introduced myself and the letter be given to the Apostolic Nun- doors of St. Peter’s Basilica, fewer than On my lap-top computer is a round de- asked him for a brief meeting, either cio, Archbishop Carlo Viganò, to send 25 yards from where would cal with a blue and white picture of Pope after his general Wednesday audience, to the Pope, which I did. be sitting. As the crowd in the main Francis with the words, “This Pope gives or at another time at his convenience. I During the 10 days before we left for square looked at the Pope, our group me hope.” On my car, next to the bumper mailed the letter in the U.S. post and Italy, several things occurred. First, the could be seen on the same platform, but to sticker that says, “Civil marriage is a civil kept hoping that Pope Francis would Apostolic Nuncio assured me that my the left – quite an appropriate place for us right,” is another sticker: “I ♥ Pope Fran- telephone, as he is wont to do. When I correspondence had been transmitted to to be! cis.” didn’t hear from him, I decided to enlist the . Second, Archbishop Because a group of pilgrims from Ar- I believe Pope Francis has a lot to learn some help. Cordileone’s secretary phoned to say gentina was seated in front of us, we were that the Archbishop had scanned and not close enough to shake hands with the emailed my letter to the Secretary of pope, but as he walked by our section, we State’s office. Third, I received a letter called out, “We are lesbian and gay Cath- from Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Pre- olics!” and sang “All Are Welcome.” Our fect of the Papal Household and a per- pilgrims were thrilled to see the pope up- sonal secretary of emeritus pope Bene- front and personal. “A once-in-a lifetime dict XVI, indicating that there were re- experience,” some said. Many were flash- served tickets for our group for the gen- ing pictures or capturing Francis on video. eral Wednesday audience. Several pilgrims thanked me for writing On the night before the audience, we that letter. A few announced that they picked up a 6” x 9” envelope with an were going back to church. official-looking enclosure for admit- I have my doubts about whether Pope tance of our 49 pilgrims. The next Francis ever saw any one of my letters; morning at St. Peter’s Square, papal (Continued on page 6)

Gay Catholics find a new tone under Pope Francis, and from

Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, February 2015. their own bishops about lesbian and gay people, about wom- In December, Francis DeBernardo, By David Gibson that both New Ways and a similar Catho- en and about sexuality and gender in gen- the executive director at New Ways Religion News Service lic LGBT organization in Britain are find- eral, but it seems to me that his past life Ministry, and I had a very cordial meet- February 16, 2015 ing support from the Catholic hierarchy in shows he is humble enough to change his their efforts to meet the pontiff when they ing with Archbishop Salvatore Cordileo- On its 15 previous pilgrimages, the views. So I’m at ease, trusting that he is both visit the Vatican on Ash Wednesday ne, who is known for his strong opposi- Catholic gay rights group New Ways steering the bark of Peter in the right di- (Feb. 18), the start of Lent, the period of tion to same-sex civil marriage. We Ministry drew maybe two-dozen people rection. I’m happy that the world leader of penance and fasting preceding Easter. knew where we disagreed, but we met to to visit holy sites in places like Assisi the church I grew up in, and the church I For example, Archbishop Georg Gan- discuss areas of agreement. I suggested and Rome. love, speaks of Jesus and the Gospel in swein, head of the papal household and that his sending my letter of request to This year, the number of pilgrims the homespun that Jesus used, in- the top aide to Pope Emeritus Benedict the Pope would be a common pastoral unexpectedly doubled to 50. stead of quoting some bland or restrictive XVI, responded to New Ways’ request for matter. Chalk it up to the so-called Francis pronouncements of his predecessors. a papal meet-and-greet by reserving tick- As I did not hear from Cordileone for Effect, where the pope’s open-arms ac- In February, I led a pilgrimage to Rome ets for the group at Francis’ weekly public more than a month, I approached my ceptance is giving new hope to gay and for lesbian and gay Catholics, parents, audience in St. Peter’s Square. It’s not a local bishop, Cardinal , in lesbian Catholics who have felt alienat- family members, and friends to see Pope private meeting — which is tough for Washington, D.C. Because of the short- ed from their church for decades. Francis. Several months before we were anyone to get — but it’s not nothing. ness of time before our departure to What’s been even more surprising is (Continued on page 2) Page 2 BONDINGS Vol. 35, No. 1 B NDINGS How did Pope Francis do on his Spring/Summer 2015 Vol. 35, No. 1 LGBT report card? By Francis DeBernardo Francis DeBernardo, Editor Bondings 2.0 NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com Board of Directors February 27, 2015

Mary Byers On March 13th, the second anniversary of Pope Francis’ election, Bondings 2.0 initiated a week-long survey entitled Jeannine Gramick, SL “What Grade Would You Give Pope Francis on LGBT Issues?” We thought you might like to know about the results. Ryan Sattler 665 readers of this blog responded to the survey, and the percentages for each grade were as follows: Board of Advisors A—14% [“He has done more than any other previous pope.”] Cornelius Hubbuch, CFX B—34% [“He has done some great things and is on the right track.”] Anna Koop, SL C—28% [“He’s done some good things, but he has also done some bad things.”] Anthony LoGalbo, OFM D—11% [“He hasn’t really moved the issue ahead at all.”] Claire Pluecker F—2% [“He has made things worse that they were before.”] Incomplete—7% [“He hasn’t done enough for me to be able to grade him.”] Staff Other—4% Francis DeBernardo, Executive Director Matthew Myers, Associate Director Since “B” received the most votes, with “C” being a close second, I think we could fairly say that our readers gave Pope Francis a “B-.” Since our readers tend to be people who are deeply concerned about Catholic LGBT issues, I think that this Robert Shine, Social Media Coordinator poll reflects that segment of the population, not all Catholic people or all LGBT people. One interesting thing to note, however is that the number of people who gave him an “A” (14%) is almost equal to the Co-Founders total of those who gave him a “D” (11%) or an “F” (2%). It seems that those who think who is doing an excellent job on Sr. Jeannine Gramick, SL LGBT issues are equally balanced with those who are very disappointed in his performance on these issues. Rev. Robert Nugent, SDS Some of the folks who graded him “Other” wrote their comments to explain their choices. Some of their remarks: “The 2015 Synod will be key.” Bondings is a seasonal publication designed “With improvement needed.” to keep our subscribers informed of issues “He negates much of the positive done.” that pertain to lesbian and gay people “I would give him a “C” on LGB issues, an “F” on trans issues. Very different responses.” and the Catholic Church. “He needs to chip away at the flaws in the “official” theology of human sexuality.” “Actions speak louder than words. So far just a few good words.” Founded in 1977, New Ways Ministry “Same as all popes.” is an educational and bridge-building In my view, “B-” is a good grade, but it is one that shows there is room for improvement, as well as usually show- ministry of reconciliation between the Cath- ing that the grader believes that the student actually can improve, if more effort and work were done. At least, that is olic gay and lesbian community how I always viewed “B-” grades, both when I was a teacher and a student. As a teacher, I used to use a “minus” grade as a way to encourage students to work a little harder, and to let them know that I believed that they could do and the institutional structures better. in the Roman Catholic Church. So it seems to me that people are happy with the track that Pope Francis is on regarding LGBT issues, but that they would like to see him improve, and they believe that he can improve.  New Ways Ministry seeks to eradicate prevalent myths and stereotypes about homosexuality and supports civil rights for lesbian and gay persons in society.

New Ways Ministry (Continued from page 1) 4012 29th Street The pope’s ambassador to Washington forwarded a simi- He even used the English word “gay,” something no Mount Rainier, Maryland 20712 lar request to Rome. Even San Francisco Archbishop Salva- pope had ever done, as most bishops prefer the more clin- (301) 277-5674 tore Cordileone — point man for the U.S. Conference of ical term “homosexual.” [email protected] Catholic Bishops’ battle against gay marriage — had written A few months later, Francis personally responded to NewWaysMinistry.org a letter to the Vatican on their behalf. an appeal from a gay Catholic group in Florence, telling NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com Last December, Cordileone had a constructive meeting them he enjoyed and appreciated their letter and assuring with Frank DeBernardo, executive director of New Ways, them of his blessing. and Sister Jeannine Gramick, a co-founder of New Ways and Then last month, it emerged Francis met with a a longtime advocate for LGBT inclusion in the church. But person from Spain who had written to the they were still surprised by the archbishop’s willingness to pope — with assistance from his bishop — after feeling write a letter for them. rejected by his parish because of his sex-change opera- Moreover, British Cardinal Vincent Nichols of Westmin- tion. It was a moving moment for Diego Neria Lejarraga, ster sent a warm blessing to a group of LGBT Catholics from and many LGBT Catholics. TO SUBSCRIBE London who are joining up with New Ways in Rome. “Be “This man loves the whole world,” he told CNN, re- assured of my prayers for each and every one of you,” Nich- ferring to Francis. “I think there’s not — in his head, in COMPLETE AND RETURN THE FORM ols wrote. “Have a wonderful pilgrimage. God bless you all.” his way of thinking, discrimination against anyone. I’m “I feel that the positive reaction that we have been getting speaking about him, not the institution.” from the hierarchy is due to the welcoming spirit of Pope Francis also encouraged discussions of the church’s Enclosed is: Francis, who wants to welcome everyone,” said Gramick, outreach to gay and lesbian Catholics at last October’s speaking by phone from Assisi, the pilgrims’ last stop before summit of top cardinals and bishops on family life — _____ $25.00 in the US or Canada heading to Rome. discussions that produced some remarkable, even unprec- “It’s very heartening to people who have felt alienated and edented, praise from church leaders to the faith and wit- _____ $35.00 outside US or Canada rejected for so long, so we are feeling very hopeful.” ness of LGBT Catholics. Gramick knows about rejection. In 1999, she was silenced At the same time, Francis has frequently reiterated the _____ I wish to receive Bondings, by the Vatican for her “erroneous and dangerous” work with church’s teaching that marriage is only between a man but cannot donate at this time. gay Catholics. She and the Catholic priest who co-founded and a woman, and he has ripped what he calls the New Ways Ministry in 1977 had “caused confusion among “ideological colonization of the family” by the West, Name ______the Catholic people and have harmed the community of the language that refers in part to efforts to promote gay mar- church,” said the office headed by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, riage and other issues in developing countries. He has Address ______who would later be elected Benedict XVI. also blasted “gender theory,” which for many is a suspect The ministry’s work was called “doctrinally unaccepta- buzzword of secular culture. City ______ble.” A year later, Gramick was barred from even speaking of Still, the New Ways leaders and many gay Catholics the 11-year probe of her work, an order she refused. As late see real reasons for hope, and not just for themselves. State ______as 2010, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops referred to Since the start of his papacy, Francis has sought to New Ways as having “no approval or recognition from the shift the hierarchy’s focus away from what he said is an DayPhone ______Catholic Church.” “obsession” with sexual issues and toward a greater con- Now, the group is hoping the Vatican will include them cern for the poor and all those rejected by the church and Night Phone ______among the list of official pilgrimage groups read aloud at the society, a social justice priority that many gay Catholics audience. They’d also love to get close enough to the pope to also share. Cell Phone ______shake his hand and maybe pose for a picture as he passes In addition, LGBT Catholics see the shift toward open through the crowds. discussion of a range of topics as good for the church, If those sound like small steps, LGBT Catholics say they and themselves. would, in fact, represent a huge leap forward considering how “While LGBT Catholics hope for changes, they are Please make check payable to “New Ways they were treated under the papacies of Benedict and St. John realistic enough to know that Francis may not make those Ministry”. Outside the US, please use only Paul II. changes,” said DeBernardo. “But he is doing things that checks drawn on a US bank in US dollars or Francis, on the other hand, has clearly shifted the tone of will help their spiritual lives.” go to www.newwaysministry.org. the conversation, even if substantial changes remain elusive. DeBernardo said many gay Catholics are not looking

Mail to: The shift began with one of Francis’ signature lines, from for approval from the church as much an acknowledg- New Ways Ministry an in-flight press conference a few months after his election ment of their existence and a willingness to “treat them as 4012 29th Street in 2013, when he was asked about whether a gay man could human beings.” Mount Rainier, MD 20712 be a priest. “If someone is gay and he searches for the Lord A photo-op or shout-out at Wednesday’s audience and has good will, who am I to judge?” Francis famously might be one such acknowledgement. “We take the long said. view,” Gramick said, “and every step is progress.”  Spring/Summer 2015 BONDINGS Page 3 Church needs patience, humility in light of same-sex marriage

By Bishop Robert N. Lynch plementary relationship between a man lend our voice to notions which might Tampa Bay Times and a woman as part of God's providen- suggest that same-sex couples are a threat January 6, 2015 tial design whereby human beings are incapable of sharing relationships marked able to be co-creators of life with God. by love and holiness and, thus, incapable In light of the judicial decision that le- Therefore, any dialogue which reaffirms of contributing to the edification of both galized same-sex marriage in Florida as of such a view of marriage and which the church and the wider society. In the Tuesday, I wish to lend an additional seeks to ensure that such a view contin- midst of changing societal definitions and voice to the discussion regarding the chal- ues to be respected and enabled to serve understandings of marriage, there may no lenges we in the Catholic Church face as and edify both the church and the wider doubt be some confusion. However, with we strive to preserve the traditional sacra- society is to be commended and sup- patience and humility, our church must mental understanding of marriage even as ported. However, together with Pope continuously strive to discover what the the law now accommodates couples of the Francis and in light of the discussions at spirit is saying and respond to the Synod same sex. The Catholic Church upholds the recent Extraordinary Synod on the Fathers' suggestion to discern what pasto- marriage, one of our seven sacraments, as Family held in Rome, I also recognize ral response faithful to church teaching an indissoluble relationship between a that the reality of the family today, in all and marked by respect and sensitivity man and a woman committed to mutual its complexities, presents the church might be appropriate for same-sex cou- consolation and open to procreation. Such with pastoral challenges as the church ples, even as God's creative designs for a view is rooted not only in the church's strives to accept people in the specific and the church's sacramental understand- long-standing theological understanding circumstances of their lives and support ing of marriage are affirmed.  of married life, but in the church's under- and encourage them in their search for standing of Christian anthropology as God and their desire to be members of Bishop Robert N. Lynch leads the Roman Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg, FL.. well, which views the conjugal and com- Bishop Robert N. Lynch the church. Therefore, I do not wish to

New Ways Ministry and U.S. Catholics Rejoice at Supreme Court Marriage Equality Decision

June 26, 2015

The following is a statement of Francis ed equally in both church and socie- strengthening of families. of marriage equality, as it is poised to DeBernardo, New Ways Ministry’s Exec- ty. While we are delighted with this While the U.S. Catholic bishops have spread to all 50 states. They can do so by utive Director, on the U.S. Supreme victory, there is still much work to be consistently opposed marriage equality entering into a dialogue with lesbian and Court’s decision to enable marriage done to ensure those goals. measures on all fronts, Catholic people gay Catholics to learn more about the re- equality to be enacted throughout the Catholics have been at the forefront of in the pews have had a different per- ality of their lives and how their faith in- nation. working for equal marriage rights for spective from their leaders. The lived spires their relationships. The bishops New Ways Ministry rejoices with mil- lesbian and gay couples. The over- faith of Catholic people has taught them should declare a moratorium on firing lions of U.S. Catholics that the U.S. Su- whelming majority of U.S. Catholics that love, commitment, and sacrifice are lesbian and gay church employees who preme Court has decided in favor of mar- have consistently been in favor of mar- the essential building blocks of marriage have married legally. These firings have riage equality for lesbian and gay couples! riage equality, and have put their sup- and family. Their daily experiences in- been a scandalous trend with effects that On this historic day, we pray in thanksgiv- port into action in legislative, judicial, teracting with lesbian and gay couples are harmful not only to the people in- ing that justice and mercy have prevailed and electoral campaigns. and their families has taught them that volved, but to the life of the Church. and that the prayers and efforts of so Their Catholic faith has inspired them these relationships are identical to heter- Today begins a time for Catholic sup- many have combined to move our nation to make sure that their lesbian and gay osexual marriages in terms of the essen- porters and Catholic opponents of mar- one step closer to fairness and equality for family members, friends, neighbors, and tial qualities needed to build a future riage equality to reconcile with one anoth- all. co-workers receive equal treatment by together, establish a family, and contrib- er and work to build up their local faith With this Supreme Court victory, Cath- society. The Supreme Court’s decision ute to social stability and growth. communities so that together they can olics recommit themselves to working to embodies the Catholic values of human The U.S. bishops now need to recon- work for a world Pope Francis envisions: make sure that all LGBT people are treat- dignity, respect for differences, and the cile themselves to the new social reality one of justice and mercy. 

Bishops' statements after the Supreme Court decision on marriage equality From Archbishop Blase Cupich, Archdiocese of Chicago: “…[T]he United States Supreme Court has ruled that two persons of the same sex have a constitutional right to marry each other. In doing so, the Court has re-defined civil marriage. The proposed reason for the ruling is the protection of equal rights for all citizens, including those who identify themselves as gay. The rapid social changes signaled by the Court ruling call us to mature and serene reflections as we move forward together. In that process, the Catholic Church will stand ready to offer a wisdom rooted in faith and a wide range of human experience. “It is important to note that the Catholic Church has an abiding concern for the dignity of gay persons. In fact, the Catechism of the Catholic Church says: ‘They must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimi- nation in their regard should be avoided.’ (n. 2358). This respect must be real, not rhetorical, and ever reflective of the Church’s commitment to accompanying all people. For this reason, the Church must extend support to all families, no matter their circumstances, recognizing that we are all relatives, journeying through life under the careful watch of a loving God.” (Bondings 2.0, www.NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com, 06/30/2015)

Archbishop Cupich made noteworthy follow-up comments in an interview with the National Catholic Reporter about the statement. He said: “My concern is that we don’t lurch in one direction or another in terms of reaction, but that we really have a sense of serenity and maturity and keep ourselves walking together. “‘I think that’s the most important thing,’ the archbishop said, using the example of a family that discusses issues they face together. “‘When they have [a] crisis, when they have something new happening, a good, mature, serene family says, “OK, take a breath, everybody. We’re all in this together. We’re going to help each other,” ‘ he said.” Archbishop Blase Cupich (Bondings 2.0, www.NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com, 07/10/2015)

From Bishop Robert W. McElroy of San Diego: “The Catholic community of San Diego and Imperial counties will continue to honor and embody the uniqueness of marriage between one man and one woman as a gift from God- -in our teaching, our sacra- mental life and our witness to the world. We will do so in a manner which profoundly respects at every mo- ment the loving and familial relationships which enrich the lives of so many gay men and women who are our sons and daughters, our sisters and brothers, and ultimately our fellow pilgrims on this earthly journey of life. And commanded by the Gospel of Jesus Christ we will continue to reach out to families of every kind who are encountering poverty, addictions, violence, emotional stress or the threat of deportation, and to attempt to bring them faith and care, service and solidarity.” (Bondings 2.0, www.NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com, 06/29/2015)

Want to read more reactions by bishops? Visit our daily blog: NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com Bishop Robert McElroy Page 4 BONDINGS Vol. 35, No. 1 New Marianist booklet helps Catholic educators discuss LGBT issues with youth

By Francis DeBernardo discrimination towards LGBT people, note that this topic is not connected to the Bondings 2.0 which is taught in the Cate- idea of creating a safe space: NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com chism. Additionally, the rationale for “Supporting LGBT students does not February 25, 2015 their approach is supported by various condone sexual activity any more than A new resource to help Catholic educa- bishops’ documents calling for pastoral supporting heterosexual students condones tors discuss LGBT issues with students care of LGBT people. The Marianist sexual activity. Your care and support has been published by a committee of the charism itself is also referred to as a simply honors the dignity of each person Marianist community. source of backing. One of the and provides a place where he or she is Addressing LGBT Issues With Youth: A “Characteristics of Marianist Education” accepted and valued.” Resource for Educators is an 11-page that is quoted states: Connected to this topic of sexual rela- PDF booklet which provides “strategies “Educate persons to accept and re- tionships is an important concluding sec- for assuring that our institutions and min- spect differences in a pluralistic society. tion on the Catholic Church’s call to all istries promote understanding, respect and As the people of the world come in- individuals to develop and follow their acceptance for all young people, regard- creasingly into contact with one another, consciences. less of their sexual orientation,” according differences among them become more Many Catholic educators can benefit to the LGBT Initiative page of the Mari- apparent. If the world of the future is to from the suggestions offered in this re- anist Social Justice Collabora- be peaceful, students of today must source. If all Catholic schools adopted tive website. The Collaborative describes learn how to appreciate cultural differ- such an approach, our church and its edu- itself as “a joint initiative of the Marianist ence and how to work with people un- cational system would be a much more Lay Network of North America, the Soci- like themselves.” welcoming place for LGBT students.  ety of Mary (brothers and priests) and the The booklet provides tips for how Marianist Sisters… It is a network that teachers can show support to LGBT provides mutual support, resources, lead- students, but it also adds suggestions for ership for peace and justice, and links to which can cause turmoil for those who how to educate the entire school com- other peace and justice groups.” may conclude that God doesn’t love munity–administrators, faculty, parents– The document stresses the importance them... about sensitivity to LGBT people. One of creating safe space for LGBT students “While bullying affects a wide range significant section offers practical an- and provides a number of suggestions for of students, LGBT students or those swers for how to answer critics who educators can become “caring and sup- perceived to be LGBT endure particular would oppose this type of approach. portive adults who will talk with them and ridicule... The resource suggests a variety of guide them.” “If adults don’t support their students, practical ways to transform a school into The need for such a resource is de- if they ignore bullying, if they remain a safe space, including updating the scribed in the booklet’s first section: silent when they should speak up, what curriculum, adopting inclusive policies, “LGBT youth need reassurance from is an LGBT youth to conclude? That he establishing support groups, and ways people who represent their faith if they are or she is not loved and valued, a flawed of talking about LGBT issues in the to integrate their self-understanding into human person.” classroom. their faith commitment. Catholic teaching The booklet situates its message with- The booklet neither condones nor often is misrepresented or misunderstood, in the Catholic tradition of non- condemns sexual relationships, but does

Gay-friendly Catholic Colleges and Universities

Below is a list of known gay-friendly Catholic colleges and universities, that is, those Catholic institutions that have some type of gay/ lesbian student group, support group, ally group, etc. If you are aware of such a college that is known as welcoming to gay/lesbian people, please let us know.

Alabama Iowa Montana Pennsylvania Mobile: Spring Hill College Davenport: St. Ambrose University Helena: Carroll College Cresson: Mount Aloysius College Dubuque: Loras College Dallas: Misericordia University California Nebraska Erie: Mercyhurst College Belmont: Notre Dame de Namur University Kentucky Omaha: Creighton University Greensburg: Seton Hill University Goleta: St. Mark’s University Louisville: Spalding University, Philadelphia: Chestnut Hill College, Los Angeles: Loyola Marymount Universi- Bellarmine University New Hampshire LaSalle University, St. Joseph’s ty, Mount Saint Mary’s College Manchester: St. Anselm College University Moraga: St. Mary’s College Louisiana Nashua: Rivier College Pittsburgh: Carlow University, Oakland: Holy Names University New Orleans: Loyola University Duquesne University Ranchos Palos Verde: Marymount College New Jersey Radnor: Cabrini College San Diego: University of San Diego Maryland Caldwell: Caldwell College Reading: Alvernia University San Francisco: University of San Baltimore: Notre Dame of Jersey City: St. Peter’s College Scranton: Marywood University Francisco Maryland University, South Orange: Seton Hall Villanova: Villanova University Santa Clara: Santa Clara University Loyola University of Maryland New York Rhode Island Colorado Massachusetts Albany: College of Saint Rose Newport: Salve Regina University Denver: Regis University Boston: Emmanuel College, Brooklyn and Patchogue: Providence: Providence College Chestnut Hill: Boston College St. Joseph College Connecticut Chicopee: Elms College Bronx: Fordham University, Texas Fairfield: Fairfield University, Easton: Stonehill College Manhattan College Austin: Saint Edward’s University Sacred Heart University North Andover: Merrimack College Buffalo: Canisius College San Antonio: University of the Incarnate New Haven: Albertus Magnus College Weston: Regis College Loudonville: Sienna College Word, Our Lady of the Lake West Hartford: Saint Joseph College Worcester: Assumption College, New Rochelle: College of New Rochelle, University College of the Holy Cross Iona College District of Columbia Poughkeepsie: Marist College Vermont Georgetown University, Trinity University Michigan Riverdale: College of Mount St. Vincent Colchester: Saint Michael’s College Detroit: University of Detroit Mercy Rochester: St. College Florida Grand Rapids: Aquinas College St. Bonaventure: St. Bonaventure Washington Miami Gardens: St. Thomas University University Lacey: St. Martin’s College Miami Shores: Barry University Minnesota Sparkill: St. Thomas Aquinas College Seattle: Seattle University Collegeville: St. John’s University Syracuse: LeMoyne College Spokane: Gonzaga University Hawaii Duluth: College of St. Scholastica Queens: St. John’s University Honolulu: Chaminade University Minneapolis: College of St. Catherine West Virginia St. Joseph: College of Saint Benedict Ohio Wheeling: Wheeling Jesuit University Illinois St. Paul: St. Thomas University Cincinnati: Xavier University Chicago: DePaul University, Loyola Uni- Winona: St. Mary’s University of Cleveland Heights: John Carroll University Wisconsin versity, St. Xavier University Minnesota Dayton: University of Dayton De Pere: St. Norbert College Joliet: University of St. Francis Pepper Pike: Ursuline College Madison: Edgewood College River Forest: Dominican University in Illi- Missouri South Euclid: Notre Dame College Milwaukee: Alverno College, nois Kansas City: Avila University, Sylvania: Lourdes College Cardinal Stritch University, Romeoville: Lewis University Rockhurst University Marquette University, St. Louis: Fontbonne University, Oregon Mount Mary University Indiana St. Louis University Marylhurst: Marylhurst University Notre Dame: Holy Cross College, St. Portland: University of Portland Canada Mary’s College, Univ. of Notre Dame Toronto: Regis College

Spring/Summer 2015 BONDINGS Page 5 Pope Francis reported to have met with transgender man at the Vatican

By Antionia Blumberg "The Vatican's reluctance to verify the The Huffington Post meeting is another indication of why I January 27, 2015 don't think their attitude can yet be called 'acceptance,'" DeBernardo told Pope Francis reportedly held a private The Huffington Post by email. audience with a transgender man on Sat- Even so, he said it would not surprise urday, in what would be another first for him if the meeting had taken place. his papal record. "This pope, through his many gestures Diego Neria Lejárraga, who underwent of meeting with those who society and sex-reassignment surgery and was subse- the church treat as outcasts, has made it quently rejected by his religious commu- his mission to lead by example, and to nity, claims he reached out to Francis in send a strong message of welcome and December and received a call from the hospitality to all people, regardless of pontiff on Christmas Eve, Spanish news- their state in life," DeBernardo said. paper Hoy reported. On Saturday, Lejárra- Many advocates have criticized the ga and his fiancee told the paper they met church for failing to welcome LGBT with the pope in his residence at the Vati- members of their communities. Sister can. Monica, a nun who ministers to “After hearing him on many occasions, transgender people, goes by a pseudo- I felt that he would listen to me,” Lejárra- nym in her public communications for ga told Hoy. fear of reprisal by Catholic authorities. Fr. Manuel Dorantes, Assistant to the "While there is no public, official po- Director at the Press Office of the Holy sition of the Catholic Church regarding See, said he did not have any information people who are transgender," Sister Diego Neria Lejárraga about the alleged meeting as of Monday Monica wrote in a blog on HuffPost, "it afternoon. would be safe to say that the hierarchy doors to the transgender community, think that his meeting with the transgender Francis DeBernardo, Executive Director of the Church would likely forbid this however, as Saturday's reported meeting man was a gesture not only of pastoral of New Ways Ministry which advocates ministry." would suggest. care, but of genuine interest in learning for LGBT Catholics, said he wondered at DeBernardo argued that the pope may "Pope Francis is an intellectual who about the transgender experience from a the Vatican's silence on the reported meet- have a genuine interest in opening the values discussion," DeBernardo said. "I firsthand source."  ing. A new theology of the transgendered body

By Sidney Callahan ing involved. Boylan recounts a diffi- unusual parenting challenges, Far from dom mutations and variations. America cult, but successful transition from being the Tree, provides an excellent chapter Fortunately, Christians do not have to January 15, 2015 a married father with two sons to a hap- on transgender dilemmas. The cases he wait for scientific consensus to understand

Why not write a gender autobiography pily reconfigured family with two ma- examines include horrible depictions of and affirm religious truths. We know that to help understand the emerging LGBT ternal figures. It’s also true that other children and families subjected to rejec- God commands us to treat each human movement? We can remember our own accounts of gender change do not end tion, prejudice and persecution. Sexuali- life with justice and love. In particular we growing up, and imagine how it might well. ty remains such a high-anxiety domain must protect the vulnerable and relieve have been different—or even tragic if we Part of the uncertainty for parents and that deviations from the norm provoke suffering. Moreover, the embodied per- did not conform to the reigning group individuals is that there isn’t any certain violence—even suicide and murder. son’s whole identity, deeds and character norms. knowledge or agreed upon consensus on Society does not universally agree with are more important than gender identity. In the New Y ork how gender identity emerges. Personal Jennifer Boylan’s affirmation, “The Autobiographical reflections confront Times (1/6/15) Jennifer Finney Boylan, a narratives differ; respected scientific world abounds with all sorts of ways of us with the mysterious question, “How transgendered advocate and professor authorities disagree. Every individual being human.” does the self-conscious ‘I am’ relate to the writes an Op-Ed piece describing the case case is unique, and personal conscious- Yes, it’s true. And when we reflect on ‘me’ of my body changing through time?” of Leelah Acorn; Leelah was a ness can constantly change. Is an experi- our own developmental history we can I’m now an old married woman who has transgendered teenager who felt so unsup- ence of misery with one’s assigned birth better see the various complexities in- experienced seven pregnancies, seen my ported by her religious family that she identity (labelled gender dysphoria) irre- volved. So much happens beneath and children change from infancy to middle committed suicide. Boylan mourns this versible? Or can it perhaps mask depres- before conscious awareness. Gender age and have physically declined with my young person’s death and recounts her sion or other disorder? Inevitably, the identity emerges, I now conclude, from aging spouse. I thank God that Christians own story to give hope to others who suf- different perspectives adopted on causal- an interrelated interplay of genes, bio- value and protect every stage and condi- fer. ity will influence judgments on treat- chemical influences in the womb, infant tion of embodied life. We value embryo, Reports in the news have described ments. and child personal experiences and so- fetus, infant, child, adult, aged, disabled new educational, legal, healthcare and Supportive parents are in a bind be- cial pressure. The brain seems hard- and the dying. And we’ve been promised ethical-theological challenges faced by cause the earlier a gender transition, the wired early, perhaps in different de- the gift of transitioning to resurrected life transgendered persons. Should women’s better the outcome in the long run. But grees. But undoubtedly, random chance as members of Christ’s body. Can we colleges such as Barnard and Wellesley fears can arise of premature medical events determine individual develop- hope now for an expanded theology of the accept applicants who are transitioning to interventions, or of prolonging a child’s mental outcomes. While God does not body and person, to better understand male identities? Can birth certificates be suffering, or risking a suicide. Andrew make mistakes, God works through sec- gender and transgendered persons?  changed and legal marriages performed? Solomon in his monumental book on ondary causes such as evolution’s ran- Bioethical questions of fertility treatments also arise. Closer to home are the hard decisions facing parents in response to a child who insists that their “real” gender identity is different from that assigned at their birth. Leelah’s suicide note reported her parents’ arguments that she was just Ireland: going through a phase and to accept that “God doesn’t make mistakes.” Land of Rainbows & Wedding Bells By contrast, three supportive families I know have enabled their children to tran- sition from male to female gender identi- An LGBT-friendly Catholic pilgrimage ty. As another sign of the times, this year at my granddaughter’s college orientation, with Sr. Jeannine Gramick, SL students were asked which gender pro- noun they wish to be addressed by. (At a “cooler” campus she visits, other students refuse to answer to any binary gender April 11-18, 2016 pronouns.) Beyond these youthful cases, I was surprised when a middle aged ex- colleague, a distinguished philosopher, recently transitioned from male to female For more information: identity and published an article on the bioethical issues involved. After reading Sr. Jeannine Gramick, SL this essay I plunged into some of the many autobiographical books detailing the 4012—29th Street psychological and social processes of gen- Mount Rainier, MD 20712 der transitions. As with Jennifer Finney Boylan’s story, there was a great deal of Email: [email protected] psychological, physical and social suffer- Phone: 301-864-3604 Page 6 BONDINGS Vol. 35, No. 1

By Thomas C. Fox as LGBT ranks grew, along with gay- ops see as morally offensive, gay rights their widely celebrated Wednesday sup- National Catholic Reporter owned enterprises, including restaurants activists see as a human right. pers. He waited on tables without fanfare, March 10, 2015 and bars that catered to the new arrivals. In a move viewed as a particularly requesting no photographs be taken. He is This is the second in a five-part series Tensions peaked in 1978 with the mur- strong attack against gays and , also planning to celebrate one of the about San Francisco's Most Holy Re- der of the city's first openly gay San Cordileone appeared at a June 2014 parish's morning Masses, McClure said. deemer Church. Francisco supervisor, Harvey Milk. By rally in Washington organized by some MHR parishioner attitudes toward their Most Holy Redeemer parishioners take then, the neighborhood was commonly of their harshest critics. Among the archbishop vary. They are generally sub- some pride in being a Francis-like parish called "the Castro," after the main street rally's co-sponsors was the Family Re- dued and respectful. He's characterized in well before Francis. The pastoral ap- that runs through it. search Council, which the Southern the parish as a shy person who has to proach to gay and lesbian lifestyles has Today, the Castro seems tamer. Its been the approach of choice for at least "gay" notoriety draws many tourists, three decades. Parish literature calls MHR some traveling on double-decker tour a "spiritual home to all," young and old, buses, snapping photos as vehicles cross singles and families, "straight, gay, lesbi- Market and Castro. The Castro area, an, and transgender." The same literature while commercially secure, is now gray- says the parish ministers to "the healthy ing as well, as rocketing real estate pric- and the sick, particularly persons with es have prevented younger settlers -- HIV disease." gay or straight -- from finding afforda- Most Holy Redeemer makes a point to ble housing. welcome strangers at every Sunday Mass. As a parish, Most Holy Redeemer At the beginning of each service, visitors reflects the wider Castro demographics. from outside the Bay area are asked to It, too, is graying -- with a difference. stand and identify themselves, and they Younger Catholics come from around are welcomed with applause. Before they the Bay, making up much of the parish. leave the church, they are handed a slick The very diversity that once moved brochure that states the parish mission and some Catholics to flee MHR now seems outlines its various ministries. to draw others, especially younger ones "Once you walk in and say hello to who feel at home and want to help pre- everyone, you feel like you are with pare their children to live in an increas- friends," parishioner Dennis Callahan said ingly diverse world. about that welcoming spirit. "You feel Tough sell like you're at Christmas, when the whole Jim Stockholm, a parishioner for 18 family meets for dinner or for New Year's, years, is on the parish communications or for somebody's birthday. You have that committee. Part of his job is outreach -- Most Holy Redeemer Church, San Francisco, California. feeling of celebration whenever you walk to "sell" MHR to the wider audience. He into the church." married his partner, Oliver Galupo, a Poverty Law Center has listed as a hate work at being sociable. "I cut him a lot of MHR has one main exit door. As wor- Filipino, one year ago. group because of the way it spreads slack," Callahan said. "After all, he gave shipers leave the church, they end up min- Galupo, an artist, works with Stock- misinformation about LGBT people. us our current pastors." gling outside. They also more naturally holm, drawing posters and signs for the Catholic gay activists were among Late in 2014, Cordileone fulfilled a funnel into the lower church hall after parish and its page. The com- the 80 religious and political leaders promise he made in the midst of the rally Mass, where refreshments are served on munication committee's budget runs who pleaded with the San Francisco controversy to meet with some of his op- Sundays. $20,000 a year, with much of the money archbishop to stay away. But he chose ponents. On two different occasions, he Liturgies are enhanced by the church's going into advertising in the local news- to go and speak anyway. met with leaders of two gay Catholic emphasis on good music. Pastor Precious papers, including what some in the par- Last month, he updated the faculty groups, DignityUSA and New Ways Min- Blood Fr. Jack McClure hired a new mu- ish refer to as "the Castro rags." handbook for archdiocesan high schools istry. Each organization has for many dec- sic director, who some have said has Asked to name his biggest challenge, to include 15 "affirm and believe" state- ades received harsh criticism from U.S. helped integrate a wider range of music. Stockholm replied squarely: "It's the ments on church teaching, with a heavy episcopal ranks for advocating on behalf Over the years, the parish has also been Catholic faith. It's got a bad rap in the emphasis on sex and sexuality. It also of LGBT Catholics. graced by professional San Francisco LGBT community. We have an arch- defined teachers as "ministers." A good According to a New Ways Ministry opera singers and musicians. bishop who helped fund and led the number of teachers, parents and students statement, Cordileone expressed his genu- Gathering around a piano to rehearse charge against same-sex marriage. All found the amended handbook coercive ine concern about church teaching, while before a 10 a.m. Sunday Mass, Sabrina that translates down to, in some way, and discriminatory and have resisted its not wanting to harm lesbian and gay peo- Romero, a young cantor, remarked she our parish. We're in the Castro, in the implementation. ple. "Leaders of both organizations felt had sung at several parishes but has never community, and so we have the chal- But there appears to be another side that he had been warm and friendly and had more active positive feedback than lenge to overcome that, to say we are of Cordileone, a softer, more pastoral showed sincere respect for each person she receives at MHR. Her solo rendition welcoming." side. MHR parishioners credit him for throughout their time together," the state- of the "Ave Maria" the Sunday before Is Most Holy Redeemer seen as an showing up four times to serve food at ment said.  Christmas moved several worshipers to exception or part of the problem? reach for their handkerchiefs. "I think both," Stockholm answered. Weekday Masses are, on the other "They see our ministries. They see our hand, low-key. Following these services, Wednesday suppers. They see us feed- most worshipers cross 18th Street heading ing the homeless, but when something (Continued from page 1) for La Taza, a local coffee shop, where comes down from Rome or from the they sit at small tables to share stories and archdiocese, they have to scratch their however, those at the Secretariat of movement among some U.S. bishops who catch up on the day's events. On Fridays, heads and say, 'There are these Catho- State and in the Papal Household who now feel free enough to dialogue with the rectory opens its doors after Mass for lics. Aren't they following what the did see my letter knew that we were a lesbian and gay people and those censured coffee, tea and doughnuts. archbishop has said?' So it's a little bit of group of lesbian and gay Catholics and under other papacies. There is a new spirit "This is our community and has been both. We can't separate ourselves from their allies. The letter also stated that I in the church, a spirit of bringing people for years," said Ikuko Hotta, a Japanese Rome or from the archdiocese of San had had previous difficulties with from the outside closer to the inside, a convert. She joked that she is an exception Francisco." the Congregation for the Doctrine of the spirit that all persons have value, even within the group as she is "married, Japa- MHR was vandalized in 2008 and Faith (CDF). In fact, I had met Georg those whom some have labeled sinful or nese and straight." 2009 as protesters drew large swastikas Gänswein at the CDF a dozen years ago. dissident. Most Holy Redeemer was dedicated in on the church. Their anger was triggered The officials also knew that this request My colleague, Francis DeBernardo, 1902, when the neighborhood was still on by the archdiocese's support of Proposi- was being made through high-level U.S. says that papal audiences are all about the outskirts of San Francisco. It survived tion 8, a referendum that sought to over- churchmen. gestures and symbols. The public symbol- the 1906 earthquake and fires, which nev- rule a court order legalizing gay mar- We received exceptional treatment ism of this papal audience was the honor er reached the church. During the 20th riages. (The proposition passed, but was because the papal winds have changed. and recognition given not only to our century, MHR served the families of eventually ruled unconstitutional.) Gay During the previous two pontificates, group but also to all lesbian and gay Cath- working-class Scandinavian, German and groups quickly denounced the MHR there was not even any recognition for olics and their allies. Behind the scenes, Irish immigrants. defacing, saying the anger had been the lesbian and gay pilgrims I brought to were gestures of dialogue among those The Golden Gate Bridge was complet- misplaced. papal audiences, let alone VIP seating. who work for the good of the church, but ed in 1937, opening San Francisco to the Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone The special handling we received this who sometimes come from different, or north. In the decades that followed, but was appointed to San Francisco in Octo- time illustrates the Francis effect. His even opposing, directions. particularly in the 1960s, Catholics pat- ber 2012. He heads the U.S. Conference desire to welcome the marginalized has Every day I thank God for Pope Francis terned wider U.S. migrations and moved of Catholic Bishops' Subcommittee for begun to permeate church structures and and pray for his continued good health. I to the suburbs, where land was cheap and the Promotion and Defense of Marriage, is causing movement in our church – am unabashedly one of his multi-billion+ new homes were sprawling. and, from that perch, he has led a cam- movement at the Vatican level and fans. This Pope gives me hope!  The 1970s marked the awakening of paign against same-sex marriage, which gays and lesbians across the nation. Soon, has been at the top of the gay rights many were looking for safer havens in agenda for the past decade. which to proclaim their emerging self- The U.S. bishops have been very Want to keep up to date with LGBT Catholic news? confidence and identities. San Francisco visible in their opposition to same-sex Subscribe to our daily blog: NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com became a draw, especially the depleted civil marriage, though their efforts seem Eureka Valley neighborhood filled with to have done little to stem the tide in empty Victorian-style homes and where favor of such unions. Thirty-six states Most Holy Redeemer Parish sat. (and the District of Columbia) now al- BELONG TO A GAY-FRIENDLY PARISH? Those years were marked by conflict low same-sex marriage. What the bish- Let us know to list it on the opposite page! Spring/Summer 2015 BONDINGS Page 7 Gay-friendly Catholic Parishes & Communities Below is a list of known “gay-friendly” Catholic parishes and intentional Eucharistic communities. Thank you for helping us add to this growing list! If you are aware of a parish or community that is known as welcoming to lesbian/gay Catholics, please let us know. Tell us if this welcome is because of a support program, spirituality group, mission statement, participation in gay community events, or involvement with parents. Parishes are listed first and intentional Eucharistic communities follow. For links to many of these parishes’ websites, go to NewWaysMinistry.org.

Delaware Nebraska North Wilmington: Holy Child Omaha: Holy Family, Sacred Heart Texas Wilmington: St. Joseph Dallas: Holy Trinity Nevada El Paso: All Saints District of Columbia Las Vegas: Christ the King, Houston: St. Anne Holy Trinity, St. Matthew Cathedral Guardian Angel Cathedral Virginia PARISHES Florida New Hampshire Arlington: Our Lady Queen of Peace Daytona Beach: Our Lady of Lourdes Merrimack: St. John Neumann Richmond: Cathedral of the Sacred Alabama Flagler Beach: Santa Maria del Mar Pelham: St. Patrick Heart, Sacred Heart Parish Decatur: Annunciation of the Lord Ft. Lauderdale: St. Anthony, New Jersey Roanoke: St. Gerard Montgomery: St. Bede St. Maurice Triangle: St. Francis Kissimmee: Holy Redeemer Lawrenceville: St. Ann Arizona Long Beach Island: St. Francis of Virginia Beach: St. Nicholas Naples: St. John the Evangelist Chandler: St. Andrew Assisi Washington Glendale: St. Thomas More St. Petersburg: Holy Cross Tampa: Sacred Heart, Christ the King Maplewood: St. Joseph Seattle: Christ Our Hope, St. Benedict, Mesa: St. Bridget South Plainfield: Sacred Heart St. Joseph, Prince of Peace Phoenix: St. Matthew Georgia Tinton Falls: St. Anselm Newman Center Scottsdale: St. Patrick Atlanta: Shrine of the Immaculate New Mexico Tacoma: St. Leo Tucson: St. Cyril of Alexandria, Conception Ss. Peter and Paul, St. Pius X, Albuquerque: Holy Family, Wisconsin Our Mother of Sorrows, St. Odilia Idaho Shrine of St. Bernadette Madison: Our Lady Queen of Peace, Boise: St. Mary Espanola: Sacred Heart of Jesus Menomonee Falls: Good Shepherd California Illinois New York Milwaukee: Good Shepherd, Berkeley: Holy Spirit Parish Prince of Peace, Trinity-Guadalupe Burney: St Francis of Assisi Berwyn: St. Mary of the Celle Albany: St. Vincent DePaul Chicago: Immaculate Conception, Baldwinsville: St. Augustine Wauwatosa: St. Pius X Carlsbad: St. Patrick Claremont: Our Lady of the St. Clement, St. Gertrude, Bellmore: St. Barnabas the Apostle Canada Assumption St. Gregory, St. Peter, St. Sylvester, Bellport: Mary Immaculate Montreal: Holy Cross Diamond Bar: St. Denis St. Teresa of Avila, St. Thomas the Binghamton: St. Francis of Assisi Ottawa: St. Joseph El Cajon: St. Luke Apostle, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Brooklyn: St. Andrew the Apostle, Toronto: Our Lady of Lourdes Encino: Our Lady of Grace Old St. Patrick St. Boniface, St. Athanasius, England Escondido: St. Timothy Country Club Hills: St. Emeric St. Augustine, Immaculate Heart of London: Church of the Immaculate Fremont: St. Joseph - Mission San Evanston: St. Nicholas Mary Conception (Mayfair) Jose Johnston City: St. Paul Deer Park: Ss. Cyril and Methodius

Goleta: St. Mark Univ. Parish Morton Grove: St. Martha East Islip: St. Mary INTENTIONAL EUCHARISTIC Hawthorne: St. Joseph (Spanish) Oak Park: Ascension, St. Catherine of Elmira: St. Mary Sienna-St. Lucy Fairport: Church of the Assumption COMMUNITIES Hayward: All Saints Arizona LaPuente: St. Martha Schaumburg: St. Marcelline Henrietta: Good Shepherd Manhattan: Holy Name of Jesus, Scottsdale: Franciscan Renewal Lemon Grove: St. John of the Cross Indiana Center Long Beach: St. Matthew St. Francis Xavier, St. Paul the Evansville: St. Mary Apostle, Church of the Ascension, Los Angeles: Blessed Sacrament, Indianapolis: St. Thomas Aquinas California Christ the King, Mother of Good St. Francis of Assisi, St. Francis de Pleasanton: Catholic Community of Counsel, St. Camillus Center-LA Iowa Sales Pleasanton USC Medical Center (Spanish), Coralville: St. Thomas More Pittsford: Church of the Transfiguration St. Agatha, St. Paul the Apostle Kentucky Colorado North Hollywood: Blessed Sacrament, Rochester: Blessed Sacrament, Colorado Springs: Benet Hill Louisville: Epiphany, Cathedral of the St. Mary (Downtown), St. Monica St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Assumption, St. William Monastery Syracuse: St. Lucy, All Saints St. Patrick Oakland: Our Lady of Lourdes Louisiana Utica: Our Lady of Mount Carmel, District of Columbia Historic Old St. John’s Communitas Oceanside: St. Thomas More New Orleans: St. Augustine Orange: Holy Family Cathedral Wading River: St. John the Baptist Florida Maine Wantaugh: St. Frances de Chantal Pasadena: Assumption of the B.V.M. Portland: Sacred Heart-St. Dominic Tampa: Franciscan Center Ross: St. Anselm Westbury: St. Brigid Saco: Most Holy Trinity Sacramento: St. Francis of Assisi Iowa North Carolina Iowa City: Full Circle San Carlos: St. Charles Maryland Charlotte: St. Peter San Diego: Ascension, St. Jude Shrine Baltimore: Corpus Christi, Durham: Immaculate Conception Maryland San Francisco: Most Holy Redeemer, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Ignatius, Fayetteville: St. Patrick Catonsville: Living Water Inclusive Old St. Mary Cathedral, St. Agnes, St. Matthew, Raleigh: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Community St. Dominic St. Vincent dePaul Greenbelt: Greenbelt Catholic San Jose: St. Julie Billiart, Columbia: St. John the Evangelist Ohio Community St. Martin of Tours (Emmaus Gaithersburg: St. Rose of Lima Akron: St. Bernard Community) Hagerstown: St. Ann Cincinnati: St. George-St. Monica, Michigan San Luis Obispo: Old Mission of Prince Frederick: St. John Vianney St. Robert Bellarmine Grand Rapids: Marywood San Luis Obispo Severn: St. Bernadette Cleveland: Blessed Trinity, Kalamazoo: Lambda Catholics San Raphael: Church of San Raphael & St. Malachi, St. Martha Massachusetts Columbus: St. Thomas More Minnesota Mission San Raphael Arcangel Minneapolis: Spirit of St. Stephen's Santa Barbara: OL of Guadalupe Boston: Paulist Center, St. Anthony Newman Center Shrine, St. Cecilia Catholic Community Santa Cruz: Holy Cross Fairlawn: St. Hilary Santa Monica: St. Monica East Longmeadow: St. Michael Mentor: St. John Vianney Oregon Simi Valley: St. Rose of Lima Newton: St. Ignatius University Heights: Church of the Portland: Journey and Koinonia Spring Valley: Santa Sophia Provincetown: St. Peter Gesu Catholic Community Sharon: Our Lady of Sorrows Westlake: St. Ladislas Stanford: Catholic Community at Stan- Virginia ford University Springfield: Sacred Heart Wooster: St. Mary of the Immaculate Arlington: NOVA Catholic Community South Pasadena: Holy Family Conception Michigan Valinda: St. Martha Ann Arbor: St. Mary Student Parish Oregon Washington Vernon: Holy Angels Catholic Church Detroit: St. Leo, Christ the King, Gesu Beaverton: Mission of the Atonement Olympia: Holy Wisdom Inclusive of the Deaf Parish Catholic Community Portland: St. Andrew, St. Francis of Walnut Creek: St. John Vianney Kalamazoo: St. Thomas More Assisi, St. Phillip Neri, Down- West Hollywood: St. Ambrose, Wisconsin St. Ignace: St. Ignatius Loyola town Chapel (St. Vincent de Paul) Madison: Holy Wisdom Monastery St. Victor Westland: Ss. Simon and Jude Whittier: St. Mary of the Assumption Pennsylvania Minnesota Philadelphia: Old St. Joseph, To add your faith community to our Colorado Minneapolis: St. Frances Cabrini, Old St. Mary, St. John the list, please contact New Ways Minis- Arvada: Spirit of Christ St. Joan of Arc Evangelist, St. Vincent DePaul try at [email protected] or Avon: St. Edward call 301-277-5674. Colorado Springs: Sacred Heart Missouri Rhode Island Denver: St. Dominic, Christ the King, Kansas City: Guardian Angels, Providence: St. Francis Chapel, Our Lady of Mount Carmel St. James St. Mary’s Lafayette: Immaculate Conception St. Joseph: St. Francis Xavier Wickford: St. Bernard Littleton: Light of the World, St. Louis: St. Cronan, St. Margaret of Scotland, St. Pius V Tennessee St Frances Cabrini Memphis: Cathedral of the Connecticut Montana Immaculate Conception Billings: Holy Rosary, St. Pius X Hartford: St. Patrick-St. Anthony Page 8 BONDINGS Vol. 35, No. 1 Unraveling the church ban on gay sex

By Gary Gutting acts are contrary to natural law. This has to them, any sexual act that could not in fulfilling life of love between two people New York Times long been a major basis for the church’s principle result in pregnancy is contrary of the same sex? Second, why must non- March 12, 2015 claim that homosexual acts are immoral to the laws of human nature because it reproductive sex be only for the selfish Last month, Salvatore Cordileone, the — indeed “gravely sinful.” means that each partner is using it as a pleasure of each partner, rather than, as archbishop of San Francisco, The problem is that, rightly devel- means to his or her pleasure. Only a Corvino put it, a way of building, cele- made controversial changes to a handbook oped, natural-law thinking seems to shared act directed toward reproduction brating, and replenishing their shared inti- for Catholic high school teachers in his support rather than reject the morality of can prevent this ultimate selfishness. macy? jurisdiction. The changes included morals homosexual behavior. Consider this line The awkward talk of “an act that could The natural-law argument might make clauses, one of which forbids those teach- of thought from John Corvino, a philos- not in principle result in pregnancy” is some sense to those who see homosexuals ers from publicly endorsing homosexual opher at Wayne State University: “A necessary since those who put forward as dominated by an obsessive desire for behavior. There are plausible legal and gay relationship, this argument want to pleasure, to which they subordinate any educational objections to this move. But like a straight rela- maintain that hetero- notion of fidelity or integrity. The coura- there is a deeper issue, one that raises fun- tionship, can be a “A gay relationship, like a sexual unions in geous uncloseting of many homosexuals damental questions about Catholic teach- significant avenue straight relationship, can be which one (or both) of has revealed them as people like most ings on homosexuality and other sexual of meaning, a significant avenue of meaning, the partners is sterile everyone else, searching for and some- matters. growth, and fulfill- growth, and fulfillment. It can are still moral. times achieving a fulfilling human life The archbishop has justified of his deci- ment. It can real- realize a variety of genuine There’s nothing un- through rich and complex relationships. sion on the grounds that homosexual acts ize a variety of human goods; it can bear good natural about their Since the official church, under Pope are “contrary to natural law.” Unlike genuine human intercourse because Francis, is more than ever open to this many religions, Catholicism insists that its goods; it can bear fruit… [For both straight and it’s the sort of act that sensible view, the time is overdue for a moral teachings are based not just on faith good fruit. . . . gay couples,] sex is a powerful in general can lead to revision of its philosophical misunder- but also on human reason. For example, [For both straight and unique way of building, reproduction. standing of homosexual acts. the church claims that its moral condem- and gay couples,] celebrating, and replenishing Just trying to formu- But should the failure of the natural-law nation of homosexual acts can be estab- sex is a powerful intimacy.” late the argument case against homosexual behavior bother lished by rigorous philosophical argu- and unique way of shows how strained it Catholics, who, after all, can also appeal ment, independent of anything in the Bi- building, celebrat- is. There are, of to the Bible’s denunciations of homosexu- ble. ing, and replenishing intimacy.” The course, numerous subtle distinctions al behavior? Here another aspect of Cath- The primary arguments derive from sort of relationship Corvino describes employed to defend it, requiring equal olic thought becomes crucial: The church what is known as the “natural-law tradi- seems clearly one that would contribute subtlety to respond. And many would accepts that there are two distinct sources tion” of ethical thought, which begins to a couple’s fulfillment as human be- see the argument as proving too much, of truth: divine revelation and reason un- with Plato and Aristotle, continues ings — whether the sex involved is het- since proponents also use it to show the aided by revelation (for example, the through Thomas Aquinas and other medi- ero- or homosexual. Isn’t this just what immorality of birth control, masturba- “natural reason” of scientists and philoso- eval and modern philosophers, and still it should mean to live in accord with tion and even non-reproductive sexual phers). But it also holds Thomas Aqui- flourishes today in the work of thinkers human nature? acts between heterosexuals. nas’s view that there can never be a genu- like John Finnis and Robert George. This Natural-law ethicists typically don’t Most important, however, the argu- ine conflict between these two sources. tradition sees morality as a matter of the see it that way. They judge homosexual ment has no satisfactory response to two Therefore, any apparent conflict results moral laws that follow from what funda- acts immoral, and claim that even a rela- crucial questions. First, why, even if from our failure to understand what either mentally makes us human: our human tionship like the one Corvino describes nonreproductive sex were somehow less God or reason is saying. nature. This is what the archbishop was would be evil because the sex involved “natural” than reproductive, couldn’t it Most important, there is no assumption, referring to when he said that homosexual would be of the wrong sort. According still play a positive role in a humanly in any given case, that we must resolve the conflict by revising the apparent con- clusion of reason. For example, the church (eventually) decided that the sci- entific claims of Galileo and Darwin were Sacrificing profits to avoid discrimination and correct and required revisions in teachings based on biblical passages suggesting otherwise. It is, therefore, an open ques- protect religious freedom tion whether to accept the reasonable con- clusion that homosexual acts need not be By Francis DeBernardo annual $28,000 tuition, which includes ciples is to refrain from not providing immoral and reject the view that this is Bondings 2.0 housing in gender-segregated dorms and business services for any weddings. what the Bible says. NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com three meals in the school’s lone dining The logic behind such a suggestion is There is considerable discussion among April 14, 2015 hall.” that since same-gender marriage has biblical scholars on this issue, with many While, of course, I disagree with this For a person like myself who cherishes become the law in many locations, it is suggesting that the passages that seem to institution’s beliefs about same-gender both religious freedom and LGBT equali- incumbent on businesses licensed in a condemn homosexual acts in general ac- marriage, for one thing, I admit that I ty, the recent discussions over state laws locale to provide services for all people. tually refer only to certain cases such as find this decision to be an intriguing designed to allow religious people and After all, the state is providing the busi- homosexual rape or male prostitution. But answer to the current religious liberty institutions to discriminate against LGBT ness with the opportunity to exist within even if the biblical view is that any homo- question. people are somewhat vexing. its borders; it is reasonable to expect sexual act is immoral, the Bible’s support What has bothered me for a long time Let me state outright that I do not be- that the business would follow the for this view is no stronger than its sup- about conservative religious freedom lieve laws should allow this type of dis- state’s laws, including non- port for the morality of slavery. Christian advocates is that they often want it both crimination. That said, I have to admit discrimination laws. If, for religious scholars argue that the acceptance of slav- ways. They want that I feel sympa- reasons, a business does not feel they ery (even in the New Testament, by Paul) to be able to have thy for people who can follow the law of the land, they merely reflects the limited perspective of government aid feel that their reli- could simply refuse to provide that ser- the Bible’s human authors (similar to their or contracts, but gious principles vice to any one. belief in geocentrism or six-day creation) not to live up to are compro- Of course, such a decision would in- and does not reflect God’s revelation. the obligations mised. As some- volve sacrifice on their part. Weddings, The condemnation of homosexuality that come with one who opposes in particular, are big money- could plausibly be treated in the same such support. So the death penalty makers. Yet, abstaining and sacrificing way. The argument would then be that I have a certain and military inter- are appropriate religious responses to rational reflection strongly supports the amount of admi- vention on reli- situations where people are motivated claim that homosexual acts are not in gen- ration for reli- gious principles, I by faith principles. Discrimination is eral immoral, while there’s no need to gious people who feel that my U.S. not. conclude that God’s revelation says other- are willing to tax dollars are be- Such decisions will not solve the reli- wise. This points the way to the church’s sacrifice some- ing used against gious freedom questions that our nation acceptance of homosexual acts as part of thing because of my religious prin- faces. It doesn’t solve the problem of a morally fulfilling human relationship. their beliefs. ciples when a fed- what to do about legitimately identified I understand that an archbishop is not This Wyoming decision reminds me eral prisoner is executed or when our gov- religious organizations (churches, for politically in a position to deny what is of the many Catholic peace advocates ernment has cavalierly become involved example) and how they conduct their still an official church doctrine. But there that I have admired over the years who in overseas military expeditions. employment policies. But the route of is nothing that requires him to vigorously have resisted paying federal military A recent New York Times news article sacrifice looks like it could be a viable enforce a teaching that is so dubious even taxes. Sometimes such peace people caught my eye and interest on this top- alternative for conservative religious in terms of the church’s own view on the keep a low income so that their federal ic. The headline: “To Keep Free of Fed- leaders who feel they are being harassed two sources of truth. This, after all, is tax obligation is minimal to nil. Some- eral Reins, Wyoming Catholic College by doing business transactions which exactly the path most clergy, including times, they have done jail time for their Rejects Student Aid.” A small, conserva- they feel violate their beliefs. some bishops, have taken regarding birth beliefs. Until hearing of this Wyoming tive Catholic school in Wyoming has re- Another alternative would be what I control — a teaching supported by the case (and the examples of several other jected federal funding so that they do not do for issues like the death penalty and very same sort of natural-law argument as religious colleges, Catholic ones includ- have to comply with regulations on social military intervention, for which I have that against homosexual acts. ed, which the Times article cites), I have issues which they disagree with because religiously principled objections. I fol- More generally, the church needs to not seen a similar interest in sacrificing of their beliefs. The story reported: low the laws while I do what I can undertake a thorough rethinking of its for principle on the part of conservative “Citing concerns about federal rules on through civil channels to influence teachings on sexual ethics, including pre- religious individuals or groups. birth control and same-sex marriage, the them. Is my religious freedom im- marital sex, masturbation and remarriage At the business level, one way the school decided this winter to join a hand- pinged upon? Yes, but I also recognize after divorce. In every case, the old argu- religious freedom question plays out is ful of other religious colleges in refusing that we do not live under a religiously- ments no longer work (if they ever did), that establishments such as photogra- to participate in the federal student-aid based government, so I have to find the and a vast number of Catholics reject the phers or bakers want the ability to deny programs that help about two-thirds of best way to be in dialogue with those teachings. It’s time for the church to real- service to same-gender couples’ wed- students afford college. For students here, with whom I disagree. The strategy of ize that its sexual ethics are philosophical- dings. It seems that one recourse they the decision means no federal loans, work dialogue is also a valid religious re- ly untenable and theologically unneces- can have to live out their religious prin- -study money or grants to finance their sponse.  sary. 