B NDINGS Vol. 36 No. 2 A Publication of New Ways Ministry Winter 2016-17 Theologian: Gay Priests Must Have Their “Stonewall Moment” By Lisa Fullam from the ordination of persons with deep them is not true. And a survey won't cor- those of other gay priests. How about a CommonwealMagazine.org - seated homosexual tendencies” (199). rect a lie. What is needed is for gay document that a bunch of gay priests sign Decembner 15, 2016 Tom Reese, SJ, was quick to re- priests to have a Stonewall moment. on together? As Jesus' older contemprary spond: "The idea that gays cannot be They need to speak up for themselves. Rabbi Hillel said: "If I am not for myself, The Congegation for the Clergy has good priests is stupid, demeaning, unjust, Their colleagues, ordained and other- who will be for me? But if I am only for released a new General Executive Decree and contrary to the facts. I know many wise, need to stand with them. They need myself, what am I? If not now, called "The Gift of the Priestly Voca- very good priests who are gay, and I sus- to come out of the closet, or nothing will when?" (Ethics of the Fathers, 1:14) tion," updating and summarizing the new pect even more good priests I know are change. That's why the Stonewall riots 2. It's not only about you. In addi- work that's been done since the last Ratio gay." This is admirably direct, to be mattered: tion to the priests, seminarians and semi- Fundamentalis was amended in 1985. sure. He concludes with a call for a Often referred to as the “Rosa Parks nary staff who need to navigate this The new document bears the stamp of "reputable survey" to determine more moment” in Gay history the Stonewall teaching, there are also queer kids in the Francis in a good way: rebellion paved the Church who hear how important the The fundamental idea is that semi- way for future mem- Church leadership thinks it is to keep naries should form missionary disciples bers of the commu- folks like them out of leadership. They who are 'in love' with the Master, shep- nity to not accept might even buy that line about herds 'with the smell of the sheep,' who treatment as second- "objectively disordered," and, unless live in their midst to bring the mercy of class citizens but they've read a fair amount of Thomas God to them. Hence every priest should rather to expect that Aquinas, might think it means they're always feel that he is a disciple on a jour- the LGBT commu- broken and unloveable, doomed to lone- ney, constantly needing an integrated nity be treated as liness and despair. Even in these times of formation, understood as a continuous equals in the eyes of increased acceptance of gay people in configuration to Christ. both the government our society, queer kids have an increased There is also a moderating of the and society at large. risk of being bullied, beaten up, thrown clerical triumphalism of John Paul II. Here are a few rea- out of their homes, and even of attempt- The document cites Pastores Dabo Vo- sons why I think gay ing and completing suicide. Is that bis: "the priest is placed not only in the priests should have enough? Church but also in the forefront of the their own Stonewall 3. Gay priests are invisible. In our Church," then two paragraphs later warns moment: culture, people are generally assumed to against clericalism and the temptation to 1. What is said be straight unless they are out. Unless "lord it over" the flock. about them is a slander. The notion that gay priests come out, this question can So there's development here--except clearly what percentage of priests are being gay men "gravely hinders them still be regarded as a question about a for the homophobia. The text quotes homosexually oriented. from relating correctly to men and wom- shadowy minority we think we do not from the 2005 document concerning ad- I disagree. en" is not true. Men--gay or straight-- know. Strong allies like Reese can say all mission of gay men to seminary: It is true that estimates of the num- who struggle with their own sexuality or they want that they know good priests “The Church, while profoundly re- ber of homosexually-oriented men with celibacy, sure, but that's not a matter who are gay, but that still leaves gay specting the persons in question, cannot among Catholic clergy range wildly, of orientation. And what are the priests faceless and nameless. What admit to the seminary or to holy orders from about 15% (which seems low) to "negative consequences" we are warned changed American attitudes about those who practise homosexuality, pre- about 60%, (which seems high). This of? Thinking that gay people are decent, LGBTQ people wasn't theory; it was sent deep-seated homosexual tendencies would make the percentage of gay priests hard-working, loving children of God real, out, visible people like Ellen De- or support the so-called ‘gay culture.’ anywhere from more than twice to nearly like the rest of us? And that some are generis, Jose Sarria, Harvey Milk, Mi- Such persons, in fact, find themselves in 10 times the proportion of gay men in the called to service in the Church, like the chael Sam and Caitlyn Jenner, and many a situation that gravely hinders them population generally. rest of us? others who came out when it was risky from relating correctly to men and wom- But the central issue should not be It is an act of thuggery to out people or dangerous to do so. Faces and stories how many such men serve as priests. The en. One must in no way overlook the against their will; gay priests need to (Continued on page 5) negative consequences that can derive issue should be that what is said about stand up for their own vocations and Sr. Jeannine Spreads Message of LGBT Equality in Poland By Francis DeBernardo Polish heritage, but that quickly dissipat- casts. Another issue for me is con- understand that this is an important issue Bondings 2.0 ed. While he called for justice in the sec- science. Sometimes your conscience of human rights.” NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com ular arena, he was adamantly opposed to guides you to differ with the church hier- She noted that Catholic lay people in January 17, 2017 any discussion of injustice within the archy…the only thing that should con- the U.S. and many other nations are church’s walls. Moreover, she disagreed cern us is love and helping others.” much more supportive of LGBT people While most people in the United with John Paul’s views about sexuality, When asked by Queer.pl about her than the Catholic hierarchy. She felt that States were enjoying turkey with all the expressed in his talks on the “Theology impressions of LGBT issues in Poland, the “hierarchy of the Church is responsi- trimmings last Thanksgiving Day, New of the Body,” stating that his notions Sister Jeannine responded: “I’m very ble for the administration of the commu- Ways Ministry’s co-founder, Sister Jean- about gender complementarity made no surprised, in a positive sense, about what nity, but they should also feel a responsi- nine Gramick, was feasting instead sense at all to women. I’ve seen and experienced in Poland. bility to listen to the people.” on pierogi (dumplings), golabki (stuffed Concerning Pope Francis, she is There is more talk about LGBT people “The Campaign Against Homopho- cabbage leaves), kapusta (sauerkraut), more optimistic. In an interview than I had anticipated. I’ve seen great bia” and “Faith and Rainbow,” two or- and babka (bread). Far with Queer.pl, she said, “I think his em- acceptance among Catholics, even ganizations that sponsored Sr. Jeannine’s from flouting custom, she was honoring phasis is in the right place. He is empha- among priests. They are beginning to speaking tour in Poland, launched a na- tradition and her ancestral roots by sizing the heart, not the head. He speaks tionwide reconciliation campaign last spending Thanksgiving Day in Poland. often about dialogue and getting to September. “Let’s Exchange a Sign of She was invited for a week-long know LGBT people, even though he Peace” posted billboards all over Poland speaking tour about Catholic LGBT is- maintains that he will not change depicting a handshake in which one hand sues, sponsored by the country’s leading church teaching (on sexual ethics). I wore a rosary around the wrist and the LGBT equality organization, “Campaign believe that it is most important to other wore a rainbow bracelet. While Against Homophobia,” and its main first talk with people and thus open Polish bishops decried the efforts, the Christian groups, “Faith and Rainbow” people’s hearts. Change (in sexual Polish citizenry responded quite positive- and “Tolerado.” She gave three public ethics) will come after there is a ly. Many prominent Catholics and sever- presentations, 14 interviews with radio, change of heart.” al Catholic publications supported the TV, or print journalists, a retreat for In an interview effort. LGBT Christians, and spoke personally with Kobieta.wp.pl, Sister Jeannine Sister Jeannine’s lecture series built with countless individual Poles, includ- described what motivated her to on so much of the enormous work al- ing the Secretary General of Poland’s become involved in this minis- ready done by these organizations and organization for nuns’ communities. try. She began her work in 1971 their supporters—efforts that Sister Jean- Traveling to Poland’s three leading when she met a young gay man who nine feels will bring about many bless- cities–Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk– had left the Catholic Church. After ings. When asked about the situation in Sister Jeannine spread the message that many discussions with him and his the U.S. in the future, she responded that she has been spreading for over 45 friends, she realized that Catholics the mission may become more difficult years: God has unconditional love for needed to be educated about LGBT to accomplish in the new presidential LGBT people and it is the church’s job lives. She explained: “I wanted to administration, but like her friends in to make that love real by working for give a voice to those in the Church Poland, she is ready to keep on working. justice and equality. who could not speak for themselves. To Weekend.gazeta.pl, she said: In the homeland of Pope John Paul I believe LGBT people, just as any “Good work will go forward be- II, journalists naturally questioned of the faithful, should have their cause the hearts and minds of people Gramick about her opinions on both the rightful place in this institution… who support the LGBT community have former pope and his current successor. “I’ve always been interested in been changed. These hearts and minds Initially, she said, she had great enthusi- those who are overlooked by socie- In Poland, Sr. Jeannine holds a sign which were opened and are no longer shut. We asm for John Paul when he was elected. ty. If you read the Bible, you know reads ” I support LGBT people because we will not step back. It will be much hard- She felt great pride because of her own that Jesus came to defend the out- are all children of God.” er. But we can handle it. We have to.”  Page 2 BONDINGS Vol. 36, No. 2 B NDINGS Welcome Lesbian/Gay Couples in Parishes By Francis DeBernardo civilly, under current church policy, they will not be able to Winter 2016-17 Vol. 36, No. 2 Bondings 2.0 marry in a church ceremony. NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com As a result of the new civil framework for marriage, December 7, 2016 more and more such couples, and families headed by such Francis DeBernardo, Editor couples, are becoming more visible in local communities, Marriage equality for gay and lesbian couples became including faith communities and institutions. Catholic les- Board of Directors the law of the land in June 2015 when the U.S. Supreme bian and gay couples and their children are starting to be a Mary Byers Court declared freedom to choose whom to marry is a con- familiar sight in parishes and schools. stitutional right. As a result, now all 50 states and the Dis- Are Catholics prepared to welcome such couples and Jeannine Gramick, SL, Chair trict of Columbia issue marriage licenses for civil weddings families into their parishes, schools, and other religiously Ryan Sattler to same-gender couples. sponsored programs? This new legal and political reality does not apply to The following list of suggestions is intended to help Board of Advisors churches and other houses of worship. Each religious faith such institutions and individuals offer a welcome, motivat- Dr. Jerry Fath is still able to decide for itself who is eligible to marry ed by sincere Christian hospitality, to these couples and Cornelius Hubbuch, CFX whom, according to their own beliefs and teachings. So, families so that they can participate fully in church life. Anna Koop, SL while Catholic lesbian and gay people may decide to marry Claire Pluecker Cristina Traina Cut out and share with parishioners, pastoral staff, and community leaders!

Staff Francis DeBernardo, Executive Director New Ways Ministry’s Suggestions for Matthew Myers, Associate Director Welcoming Lesbian and Gay Couples and Families Robert Shine, Social Media Coordinator Into Parish Life and Community

Co-Founders 1. Make it known that all children will be baptized, not only those of heterosexually married couples. Sr. Jeannine Gramick, SL 2. Include lesbian and gay couples in all aspects of parish life: prayer and liturgy, educational programs, Rev. Robert Nugent, SDS social events, and service opportunities. 3. Invite gay and lesbian couples to participate in marriage preparation and enhancement programs. Bondings is a seasonal publication designed 4. Open bereavement support groups to lesbian and gay people whose spouses have died. to keep our subscribers informed of issues 5. Acknowledge and celebrate the love and commitment of lesbian and gay couples in the same ways that pertain to LGBT people that heterosexual couples are affirmed. and the Catholic Church. 6. Educate one another about sexual orientation and the reality of lesbian and gay people.

7. Institute a non-discrimination policy for sexual orientation, gender identity, marital and relational sta- Founded in 1977, New Ways Ministry tus. is an educational and bridge-building 8. Welcome families headed by lesbian and gay couples to all family events that the parish sponsors. ministry of reconciliation between the Cath- 9. Allow local Scouting programs to accept lesbian and gay mothers and fathers to be Scout leaders. olic LGBT community 10. Make sure that everyone knows that the children of lesbian and gay couples are welcome in educa- and the institutional structures tional programs, parish schools, and all appropriate sacramental preparation programs. in the Roman Catholic Church. 11. Include discussion of lesbian and gay people in all parish programs concerned with diversity, multi- New Ways Ministry seeks to eradicate culturalism, social justice, sexuality, and faith sharing. prevalent myths and stereotypes 12. Listen to, converse with, and be present to parishioners or community members who may disagree about homosexuality and gender identity about welcoming lesbian and gay people and families. and supports civil rights for LGBT persons in society.

Malawi Bishops Lead March Against LGBT Rights New Ways Ministry 4012 29th Street By Robert Shine Actions by Catholic officials come about nine months Mount Rainier, Maryland 20712 Bondings 2.0 after Malawi’s bishops called for the government to begin (301) 277-5674 NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com enforcing the nation’s ban on homosexuality. In its pastoral [email protected] February 4, 2017 letter for the Year of Mercy, “Mercy of God as a Path to Hope,” the ECM called for the government to begin enforc- NewWaysMinistry.org Catholic bishops in Malawi joined other religious lead- ing the nation’s law against homosexuality and stop bowing NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com ers last month in a protest march against LGBT rights, an down “to pressure from donor community, international issue on which the nation’s Catholic officials have already bodies and local human rights campaigners.” opined quite negatively. The bishops’ lengthy support for LGBT criminalization The Citizens’ March for Life and Family was actually a is well-documented and has been strongly condemned by series of smaller marches throughout the country, report- LGBT advocates. Last year, Malawi’s bishops also made ed The Tablet. In addition to protesting homosexuality, false claims about alleged foreign aid pressure during U.S. TO SUBSCRIBE these marches, which involved some 60 denominations and Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBT People COMPLETE AND RETURN THE FORM more than 50 Christian organizations, also included protests Randy Berry’s visit to their nation. Berry categorically against expanded abortion rights. refuted their claims. Individual bishops from this African Organizers said the Citizens’ March for Life and Fami- Enclosed is: ly urged Malawians to oppose legaliz- ing homosexuality, an act they re- _____ $25.00 in the US or Canada ferred to as “a direct attack” on family life. Catholics played a leading role in _____ $35.00 outside US or Canada the March, which was sponsored in part by the (Catholic) Episcopal Con- _____ I wish to receive Bondings, ference of Malawi (ECM) and chaired but cannot donate at this time. by Martin Chiphwanya, the National Secretary for the Catholic Commis- ______sion for Justice, reported Nyasa Name Times.

______Catholic church leaders were also Address active locally. According to Malay

______Mail Online, Fr. Francis Tambala told City marchers in the major city of Blan-

______tyre, “We say no to gay and lesbian State unions. (Lawmakers) must vote no to

______homosexuality as history will judge DayPhone us harshly if we don’t stand against

______abortion and same-sex marriages.” Night Phone LGBT advocates have pushed

______back against the church-backed pro- Cell Phone tests, questioning why religious lead- Marchers in Malawi ______ers were focused on condemning Email LGBT people when real issues needed attention. Gift Trapence, an advocate who leads the Centre for Development of People, said such protests shifted the country have made other troubling remarks about homosex- Please make check payable to “New Ways uality, too. Ministry”. Outside the US, please use only focus of “suffering Malawians away from real issues of power blackouts, crumbled economy and corruption.” Malawi’s bishops have significant influence in the checks drawn on a US bank in US dollars or country, despite Catholics composing just 20% of the popu- go to www.newwaysministry.org. It is also noteworthy, too, that following the protests in December, a senior member of the Malawi Law Commis- lation. Catholic leaders played a key role in the country’s Mail to: sion chided religious leaders behind the March, reported 1992 transition to democracy and have been described by New Ways Ministry the Maravi Post. Mike Chinoko, the deputy chief law reform some as the conscience of their nation. In a nation where 4012 29th Street officer for the Commission, said, “What the men or women LGBT people remain illegal and marginalized, the bishops Mount Rainier, MD 20712 of God should know is that there is a big difference be- should be using their moral authority to foster greater re- tween the church and the state.” spect and equality for all persons.  Winter 2016-17 BONDINGS Page 3 Four Years Later, What to Make of Pope Francis and LGBT Issues? By Robert Shine gerate how extraordinary this is.” For repeated denunciations against marriage for LGBT advocates based on ambiguous Bondings 2.0 context, he explained: equality (e.g., in Slovakia, Slovenia, language about gender identity. Failure NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com “Only during Vatican II was such a Philippines), even saying there was a to clarify in this encyclical and in other March 13, 2017 debate possible. . .During the last two “world war to destroy marriage.” More- remarks what he means by “ideological papacies, dissent was roundly con- over, he has remained silent about efforts colonization” or unspecified critiques of Today is the fourth anniversary of demned and suppressed. The theologies to criminalize and discriminate against gender theory have given LGBT- Pope Francis’ election, a moment for of John Paul II and Benedict XVI could LGBT people, even as Catholics ask him negative bishops leeway to be condem- taking stock of what he has accom- not be questioned. . .Under Francis, syn- to speak in defense of human rights. His natory. plished, is doing, and hopes to achieve in odal participants were encouraged by the decision to be involved in the marriage Finally, Reese wrote that Francis his remaining years. Francis’ record on pope to speak their minds boldly and not debate but not the issue of criminaliza- “has moved to reform the governance gender and sexuality issues is mixed, but worry about disagreeing with him. The tion shows poor prioritization for a pope structures of the church.”Reese evaluated his larger efforts to help the church more result is a freer exchange of views, pub- who promotes human rights. this work as slow but in progress. These fully receive Vatican II and to reform the efforts have included appointing more Curia may be better places for LGBT pastorally-oriented bishops who are less Catholics and their allies to focus. interested in sexual issues, whom he de- Jesuit Fr. Thomas Reese, writing in scribed as not crusaders but “humble and the National Catholic Reporter, outlined trusting sowers of truth.” what he sees as five of the pope’s great And he received Bishop Jacques achievements. To progressives who are Gaillot who, in 1995, was removed from critical of the pontiff, Reese said Francis’ office for blessing the union of a same- record is “revolutionary” and should be gender couple. celebrated. Whether one agrees with that So what happens now? I offer three assessment or not, Reese’s points are brief points of my own for how we can worth highlighting with an eye on LGBT understand and evaluate Pope Francis issues: today. “First, the pope has called for a new First, when evaluating anything way of evangelizing. He tells us that the Pope Francis says or does, his commit- first words of evangelization must be ment to enfleshing Vatican II must be about the compassion and mercy of God, kept in mind. This effort is his funda- rather than a list of dogmas and rules that mental project, one which was set aside must be accepted. . .He does not obsess by his two predecessors, but one which over rules and regulations. He is more will be explosive long term if it contin- interested in orthopraxis (how we live ues. the faith) than orthodoxy (how we ex- Second, Francis possesses a basic plain the faith).” understanding that LGBT people are This new way of evangelizing has marginalized, and acknowledged the Pope Francis prioritized human beings as sub- need for pastoral accompaniment of jects before God, not categories or ob- LGBT people as “what Jesus would do.” jects. In a 2016 interview, expounding Yayo Grassi, a gay former student of the on his famous “Who am I to judge?” lic disagreements, and even outright crit- Third, Reese identified Francis pope who has remained friends with remark, Francis spoke about gay people icism of the pope by some conservative as “presenting a new way of thinking Francis, said at a New Ways Ministry with a welcoming tone and without any cardinals. All of this would never have about moral issues in Chapter 8 event last fall that Francis has said to him mention of condemnatory sexual ethics. been allowed under earlier popes.” of Amoris Laetitia,” which promotes a explicitly, “There is no place for homo- This approach seems to have worked, at This new openness includes an end richer and more mature understanding of phobia” in ministry. These are building least initially. The pope received a to investigations against and silencing of ethical living: blocks from which greater inclusion and “Person of the Year” award from not theologians, which Reese said “is ex- “Under this approach to moral theol- justice can arise. only Time, but from The Advocate, and tremely important if theology is to devel- ogy, it is possible to see holiness and Third, Pope Francis will likely various celebrities like Edie Wind- op and deal with contemporary issues in grace in the lives of imperfect people, not move beyond his limitations as an sor, Antonio Banderas, and Elton a way that is understandable by people of even those in irregular marriages. Rather older cleric raised in a traditional Argen- John have applauded him for his focus the 21st century.” But what has not en- than seeing the world as divided between tinian culture when it comes to questions on mercy, not law. tered the conversation, either generally the good and the bad, we are all seen as of gender and sexuality. This reality Reviews of Pope Francis in the or at the Synod on the Family, are the wounded sinners for whom the church means we cannot hesitate to get on with church have likewise been fairly posi- voices of LGBT people and their fami- serves as a field hospital where the Eu- our own work. Change in the church tive. Some 50 LGBT Catholics and their lies who must inform theology and min- charist is food for the wounded rather comes from below. Australian Catho- families on pilgrimage with New Ways istry by speaking about their lives and than a reward for the perfect. Gone is any lics seized on the pope’s call for the Ministry received VIP seating during a realities. attempt to scare people into being good.” church to apologize to LGBT people by papal audience, a deeply healing and Welcoming disagreement, and even Amoris Laetitia was a positive step holding a liturgy for such an apology. As hopeful moment for many pilgrims and playing with his own ideas in public, is a for the church generally but provided I have written previously, we must do others. Francis met personally with a sign of health in the papacy. But it has less joy for LGBT Catholics and their likewise in using the room Francis has transgender man, Diego Neria Lejárra- led to consternation from many parts of families. Indeed, theologians have noted created to work for equality where, ga, who had been excluded from his par- the church. Precisely what Francis means how its treatment of sexuality does not when, and how we are able. ish in Spain. Speaking about the meeting in an interview or off-the-cuff remark is seem consistent with the rest of the ex- As we evaluate Pope Francis today in a later interview, the pope described not always clear. This phenomenon has hortation. The disappointment of gender and going forward, we must not miss the Neria Lejárraga as “he who was she who created problems, like misreporting that and sexual minorities was present forest for the trees. This papacy has been is he” and used male pronouns. If human he had compared transgender people to throughout the Synod on the Family pro- about God’s expansive mercy, and Fran- encounters lead to hearts broken open, as nuclear weapons or speculation with cess which, despite some positive mo- cis has involved himself in the causes of Sr. Simone Campbell told a Vatican little factual basis. Perhaps most notable ments, largely set aside homosexuality many vulnerable peoples. He is witness- gathering last week, then such interper- was the mix up about Pope Fran- and related concerns. ing to the Gospel in bold and beautiful sonal acts cannot be undervalued. cis alleged meeting with right-wing icon Fourth, Reese noted the pope’s ways, even if imperfectly.  Reese’s second point is that the pope Kim Davis during his visit to the United prominent commitment to environmen- “is allowing open discussion and debate States. tal justice. This has included the release in the church. . . .It is impossible to exag- Politically, Pope Francis has had less of the encyclical Laudato Si, which was tolerance for diversity of opinion. He has warmly received though raised questions LGBT Issues Prominent at U.S. Catholic Higher Ed Conference

By Robert Shine to stand on so that we can appropriately about LGBTQ concerns, and even the statement in strong opposition to this ban Bondings 2.0 claim the ground that is out potential need for a ‘safe space’ for the- affirmed, “The commitment of our insti- NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com there.” NCR reported further: ologians who grapple with these topics.” tutions to creating inclusive, welcoming February 4, 2017 “Rubio advocated for calling stu- Beyond gender and sexuality, the campus environments that embrace peo- dents and others by the names that they meeting dealt with other areas in Catho- ple of all faiths and cultures.” LGBT inclusion was a central theme wish to be called. Educators ought to be, lic higher education where diversity and It is heartening to see that this com- at the Association of Catholic Colleges she said, ‘less worried about the trouble inclusion could improve. These issues mitment to inclusion and diversity is and Universities‘ (ACCU) annual meet- we might get in by inclusion and more have taken on a new urgency given the focusing on matters of gender and sexual ing this year. Entitled “Inclusion on worried about the suffering they are ex- first two weeks of the new U.S. presi- identities, which are so present in stu- Campus: Exploring Diversity as an Ex- periencing.’. . . dential administration. dents’ lives and about which institutions pression of God’s Grandeur,” the meet- “Rubio walked participants through Fr. Bryan Massingale, a theologian can offer key supports. Many Catholic ing explored several issues, including a timeline of Catholic thinking on topics at Fordham University, New York, said colleges and universities in the U.S. are race, immigration status, and gender. like what it means to be made in the im- this was a “moment of stark clarity” call- already offering LGBTQ supports and Dr. Julie Hanlon Rubio, an ethicist age of God while offering theological ing on Catholic colleges and universities even coursework. at St. Louis University, led a workshop tools for discussing gender and offering to offer a “powerful, robust vision” that Hopefully, with ACCU’s forward- on “Serving the LGBTQ Community.” hospitality in the context of diversity and understands “the urgency in which your looking leadership, the meeting this year According to the National Catholic Re- inclusion. Urging her listeners to be sen- students are feeling this moment in histo- will encourage schools to either step up porter, Hanlon is concerned that Catho- sitive to the experiences of their LGBTQ ry.” He said further, “We need to both or start altogether their inclusion of lic higher education did not offer appro- students, Rubio stressed the importance respond to and interrogate in light of our LGBTQ people on campuses. To read priate support following last year’s mas- of listening. commitment to God” this new reality. the organization’s list of “Ten Ways to sacre at an LGBT nightclub in Orlando “In a question-and-answer period Indeed, just as ACCU members Be More Inclusive,” go to: in which 49 people were killed. following the session, conference mem- gathered for the meeting, the president www.accunet.org/i4a/pages/ Rubio said, “[W]e can’t quite find bers discussed how to minister effective- was issuing an executive banning citi- index.cfm?pageid=4006  the words. . .We have to find the theo- ly when students may want advocacy, zens from seven predominantly Muslim logical resources that give us the ground the status of conversations with bishops nations from entering the U.S. ACCU’s Page 4 BONDINGS Vol. 36, No. 2 BOOK REVIEW Why Being in Love Leads Us to Seek Justice and Equality

By Robert Shine emancipatory ethical significance, em- There are problems, however, about I have witnessed firsthand this phe- The National Catholic Reporter powering ethical voices of resistance.” whose narratives are told and how they nomenon in Catholics whose intimate March 1, 2017 By loving across boundaries, by being are told. Female protagonists, like Elea- love breaks the Catholic church’s own beloved and experi- nor Roosevelt and Love Laws. I have met many faithful Being in love and being loved by encing the power novelist Marian people who are in queer relationships or someone are the heights of human expe- that erotic intimacy Evans, whose pen- second marriages, who practice contra- rience, unleashing the erotic part of us in has, by knowing name was George ception or accompany a partner transi- a most profound and powerful way. Love love’s disarming Eliot, appear only in tioning genders, who say they have expe- is the crucial good most of us seek, the vulnerability and peripheral chapters. rienced God’s love more robustly fire that fuels us, and the God whom unknowable mys- Richards acknowl- through boundary-breaking intimacy. many of us worship. We believe in love. tery, we are led to edges the focus on Through love, these Catholics find a Why, then, do most of us so desper- true freedom. gay men, but his voice to defy the ecclesial patriarchy that ately seek to restrain and restrict love? The book un- reasoning about bans the ordination of women, condemns And what would happen if we stopped ravels as a narrative patriarchy being same-gender love, and leaves open the policing intimacy through civil laws and of narratives. Rich- more permissive of wounds of clergy sexual abuse. Too cultural taboos, enforcing them as if they ards intertwines the lesbian relationships many church leaders cause harm because are a set of Love Laws? What if we just stories of four gay is not compelling Catholic programs of formation have let love run wild through our lives? British artists in the enough to warrant stifled education about the erotic. These questions drive David A.J. Rich- 20th century. He this narrow focus. Outside the church, love propels ards’ book, Why Love Leads to Justice details how the lov- Tighter editing justice today through the queer voices (Cambridge University Press, 270 pages, ing relationship of could have eliminat- leading Black Lives Matter, the interfaith $30.99) . Curious as to why society’s composer Benjamin ed some sections couples rejecting Islamophobia, and greatest visionaries and most ground- Britten and singer that read as tangen- many others who love across boundaries breaking artists often love through Peter Pears helped tial or repetitive as they struggle for justice. boundary-breaking relationships, Rich- their art to flourish, when narratives are Reading Why Love Leads to Jus- ards offers an interdisciplinary explora- and how novelist told. tice deeply affirmed my belief in love, tion about erotic power and ethical re- Christopher Isher- But Why Love specifically the radical power of the erot- sistance to patriarchy. wood and influential Leads to Jus- ic. Richards’ subjects force us to con- Patriarchy is fundamental to injus- poet W.H. Auden found their creative tice can, and hopefully will, lead to fur- front the ways we enforce Love Laws tice because, in Richards’ words, it voices through gay relationships. ther reflections that include voices large- today. Their stories compel us to ask “destroys the search for real relationships Richards also writes about two gay ly absent in Richards’ work. He primari- ourselves whether we are truly resisting with other persons, as the individuals black men in the United States. Bayard ly reflects in this work on the Love Laws patriarchy. And, if we aren’t, whether they are,” and it demands exacting vio- Rustin, the too-long-forgotten organizer that police relationships across racial and this is due to our failure to let love run lence against any resisters. It afflicts all behind the 1963 March on Washington, gender boundaries. wildly through our lives. people through attendant oppressions, rooted himself in nonviolent pacifism I would excitedly welcome reflec- Yes, love is patient, and love is kind. such as homophobia and racism, and it because he came to know intimate love tions from Richards and from other voic- But if it is not also radically free and brutalizes the powerless and the privi- despite being persecuted. And Richards es about how loving across boundaries resisting injustice, is it really love at all? leged alike. Patriarchy is “a threat to love reflects powerfully on writer James such as economic class, migration status,  itself.” Baldwin, whose treatment of gay love in religious belief, and more has freed peo- Robert Shine is Social Media Coor- But in the very love threatened, we the 1950s was precedent-setting and who ple from patriarchal constraints to be dinator at New Ways Ministry and stud- find the roots of resistance because found his voice by being deeply loved by creative and to speak with ethically re- ies at the Boston College School of The- “breaking the Love Laws can have an a white man. sisting voices. ology and Ministry. LGBT-friendly Catholic Colleges and Universities

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

Alabama Iowa Nebraska Philadelphia: Chestnut Hill College, Mobile: Spring Hill College Davenport: St. Ambrose University Omaha: Creighton University LaSalle University, St. Joseph’s Dubuque: Loras College, Clarke University University California New Hampshire Pittsburgh: Carlow University, Belmont: Notre Dame de Namur University Kentucky Manchester: St. Anselm College Duquesne University Goleta: St. Mark’s University Louisville: Spalding University, Nashua: Rivier College Radnor: Cabrini College Los Angeles: Loyola Marymount Universi- Bellarmine University Reading: Alvernia University ty, Mount Saint Mary’s College New Jersey Scranton: Marywood University Moraga: St. Mary’s College Louisiana Caldwell: Caldwell College Villanova: Villanova University Oakland: Holy Names University New Orleans: Loyola University Jersey City: St. Peter’s College Ranchos Palos Verde: Marymount College South Orange: Seton Hall Rhode Island San Diego: University of San Diego Maryland Newport: Salve Regina University San Francisco: University of San Baltimore: Notre Dame of New York Providence: Providence College Francisco Maryland University, Albany: College of Saint Rose Santa Clara: Santa Clara University Loyola University of Maryland Brooklyn and Patchogue: Texas St. Joseph College Austin: Saint Edward’s University Colorado Massachusetts Bronx: Fordham University, San Antonio: University of the Incarnate Denver: Regis University Boston: Emmanuel College, Manhattan College Word, Our Lady of the Lake Chestnut Hill: Boston College Buffalo: Canisius College University Connecticut Chicopee: Elms College Loudonville: Siena College Fairfield: Fairfield University, Easton: Stonehill College New Rochelle: College of New Rochelle, Vermont Sacred Heart University North Andover: Merrimack College Iona College Colchester: Saint Michael’s College New Haven: Albertus Magnus College Weston: Regis College Poughkeepsie: Marist College West Hartford: Saint Joseph College Worcester: Assumption College, Rochester: St. John Fisher College Washington College of the Holy Cross St. Bonaventure: St. Bonaventure Lacey: St. Martin’s College District of Columbia University Seattle: Seattle University Georgetown University, Trinity University Michigan Sparkill: St. Thomas Aquinas College Spokane: Gonzaga University Detroit: University of Detroit Mercy Syracuse: LeMoyne College Florida Grand Rapids: Aquinas College Queens: St. John’s University West Virginia Miami Gardens: St. Thomas University Wheeling: Wheeling Jesuit University Miami Shores: Barry University Minnesota Ohio Collegeville: St. John’s University Cincinnati: Xavier University Wisconsin Hawaii Duluth: College of St. Scholastica Cleveland Heights: John Carroll University De Pere: St. Norbert College Honolulu: Chaminade University Minneapolis: College of St. Catherine Dayton: University of Dayton Madison: Edgewood College St. Joseph: College of Saint Benedict Pepper Pike: Ursuline College Milwaukee: Alverno College, Illinois St. Paul: St. Thomas University South Euclid: Notre Dame College Cardinal Stritch University, Chicago: DePaul University, Loyola Uni- Winona: St. Mary’s University of Sylvania: Lourdes College Marquette University versity, St. Xavier University Minnesota Joliet: University of St. Francis Oregon Canada River Forest: Dominican University in Illi- Missouri Marylhurst: Marylhurst University Toronto: Regis College nois Kansas City: Avila University, Portland: University of Portland Romeoville: Lewis University Rockhurst University St. Louis: Fontbonne University, Pennsylvania Indiana St. Louis University Cresson: Mount Aloysius College Notre Dame: Holy Cross College, St. Dallas: Misericordia University Mary’s College, Univ. of Notre Dame Montana Erie: Mercyhurst College Helena: Carroll College Greensburg: Seton Hill University Winter 2016-17 BONDINGS Page 5 Did the Vatican ban gay priests or not?

By Francis DeBernardo What does it mean to "practice ho- pects. In such instances, church leaders tendencies" can be interpreted to apply to The National Catholic Reporter mosexuality"? Obviously, the Vatican should definitely want priests to support the types of men that Cameli suggests it December 27, 2016 and Cameli are using this term to mean gay culture. does. To most people, "deep-seated ho- sexual activity. They do not realize that The question of what "support" of mosexual tendencies" would mean the Since the publication of the Vatican "homosexuality" refers to many more gay culture entails is also problematic. presence of a homosexual orientation, Congregation for the Clergy's "The Gift characteristics than sexual activity. When a pastoral minister reaches out to a plain and simple. It does not refer to of the Priestly Vocation" a few weeks "Homosexuality" also refers to one's gay person, is that support of gay cul- problems with one's sexuality. ago, most commentators have noted that sexual orientation, regardless of whether ture? When a person supports the equali- The cause for the mental and emo- the document reaffirms a 2005 ban on one acts sexually. Sexuality, whether ty of an LGBT person before the law, is tional reactions Cameli describes is not the ordination of gay men. Yet Fr. Louis "deep-seated homosexual tendencies." Cameli, a priest in Chicago, wrote an Instead, such behavior reflects certain article in L'Osservatore Romano, the men's lack of maturity in integrating their Vatican newspaper, on Dec. 18 in which sexuality into their personality. These he says the Vatican document does not problems can exist in heterosexual issue a blanket ban on gay men being priests, as well as homosexual priests. ordained. They are not the exclusive province of In his article, Cameli says he be- homosexuality. lieves that the text's language is nuanced This lack of precision in language and needs interpretation. I believe the raises a question: Why doesn't the Vati- problem with the Vatican document is can use the term "homosexual orienta- that the language is not nuanced, but tion"? Why doesn't the Vatican state its sloppy, and thus, dangerous. The prob- concern with men whose sexuality is not lem is not one of subtlety: The authors maturely integrated into their personality, use terms that are incorrect or that have regardless of their orientation? That vague definitions. would have made this document so much For Cameli, the key language from heterosexual, homosexual or bisexual, that grounds to deny a person admission clearer. the 2005 document, which is quoted in refers to a variety of factors in a person: to seminary? If a person speaks out If the Vatican did not want to ban this latest text, reads: emotions, desires, fantasies, interactions, against lesbian, gay, bisexual and gay men from the priesthood, why didn't “The Church, while profoundly re- as well as physical actions. Being homo- transgender youth being bullied, would they say so in clearer terms? What gay specting the persons in question sexual also involves a large number of that prevent this person from being or- man reading this document will think [‘persons with homosexual tendencies’], social stigmas and pressures to be over- dained? that the Vatican welcomes him? cannot admit to the seminary or to holy come. The Vatican's imprecise use of lan- Instead, the Vatican used specifical- orders those who practice homosexuali- So, when is a person considered to guage in this document is as dangerous ly vague and misleading language that is ty, present deep-seated homosexual be "practicing" homosexuality? The Vat- and harmful as the imprecision of the not understood by the rest of the world. tendencies or support the so-called ‘gay ican document takes this broad term and term "objective disorder" to refer to ho- That is the main fault with this docu- culture.’ Such persons find themselves in gives it a narrow definition of referring mosexual orientation. More and more ment. a situation that gravely hinders them to sexual activity. bishops are requesting such language be Cameli blames the media for too from relating correctly to men and wom- As for supporting "gay culture," retired by the church because it is mis- blunt an interpretation of this document. I en. One must in no way overlook the Cameli interprets this phrase to mean "an leading and causes negative effects. Yet, disagree. The blame lies with Vatican negative consequences that can derive eanvironment and a movement that ad- we see that style continues in this latest officials who continue to use antiquated, from the ordination of deep-seated ho- vocates moral stances at variance with document. uninformed language. They should know mosexual tendencies." Church teaching." But this definition is As for the second criteria, Cameli better. For more than 40 years, bishops, Cameli argues that of the three crite- not explicit in the document and does not acknowledges that the Vatican's phrase theologians, pastoral ministers and lay- ria mentioned — practicing homosexual- conform to the way that ordinary people "deep-seated homosexual tendencies" is people have been calling for church offi- ity, possessing deep-seated homosexual understand "supporting 'gay culture.' " vague, but he offers four examples of cials to use more accurate language about tendencies, supporting "gay culture" — The mere fact that the Vatican document men to whom it might apply: homosexuality. the first and third are clear-cut, with the puts "gay culture" in quotation marks Men who consider "being gay" the If church leaders continue to use second one needing some deeper inter- indicates their negative evaluation of the central factor of their identity; inaccurate language about homosexuali- pretation. concept. Men who are obsessed or preoccu- ty, the only thing that one can surmise As for the first, Cameli notes that In fact, gay culture has a lot in com- pied with their homosexual identity; from such behavior is that they do not since celibacy is required of priests, sex- mon with church teaching: the values of Men whose sexuality creates "a understand the subject they are discuss- ual activity is not permitted. But the text being true to oneself, of being coura- blockage in one's relational capacities," ing or that they are content with promot- does not speak of sexual activity but of geous, of listening to the voice of God meaning that they can't relate to women ing a negative evaluation of LGBT peo- men who "practice homosexuality." within a person, of loving and living as a well or that they relate to men too eroti- ple. Neither alternative is responsible.  full human being, and many more as- cally; Men who have a pervasive "sense of Francis DeBernardo is executive inevitability about acting on homosexual director of New Ways Ministry, which Safe Space for LGBTI Pupils inclinations." describes its mission as "building bridg- I would agree with Cameli that such es between the LGBT community and In Scotland’s Catholic High Schools men would not be suitable candidates for the Catholic church." This article first the priesthood. However, I do not see appeared on New Ways Minis- The Herald and, in some cases, actually commit sui- how the term "deep-seated homosexual try's Bondings 2.0 blog. Glasgow, Scotland cide. January 26, 2017 "There doesn't seem be a recognition at all that there's an issue about LGBTI Priests Need a Stonewall Moment All Catholic high schools in Scot- young people and how they should be land will have a "safe space" for LGBTI supported through school." (Continued from page 1) Kingdom of God, and doesn't want to pupils, MSPs [Members of Scottish Par- Some schools, including Catholic change opinions in a way that nothing become the topic of conversation. But liament] have heard. schools, were "brilliant" on PSE and else can. unless gay priests decide that it's time for Holyrood's Equalities and Human LGBTI pupils, but in other places the 4. "Fear is useless: what is needed their Stonewall moment, Church leaders- Rights Committee convener Christina classes were "disturbing". is trust." One fear is that if gay priests -some of them closeted, sometimes self- McKelvie said they heard some pupils She added: "The young people we come out, they will be dismissed, trans- loathing, homosexually-oriented men who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, spoke to did raise some issues about ferred, tossed out of their communities, themselves--will continue to utter the transgender or intersex (LGBTI) had Catholic schools. or even defrocked. It is also the case that slander that affects not just ordained gay taken their own lives after being bullied. "We would like to get some insight there is a drastic shortage of priests in the men and seminarians, but every LGBTQ She added the students had raised into that whether there is a recognition of Church at present, so this seems unlikely, person in the Church. particular concerns about Catholic these issues especially about LGBTI at least if lots of gay priests come out. It's just not healthy in the closet, not schools and she felt personal and social young people and what the Catholic Edu- With any luck, their straight brothers for gay priests, nor for the Church lead- education (PSE) classes were critical to cation Service are doing to address that would stand with them. If they do not, ers who enforce their silence. Reese con- helping pupils. without making young people feel as if were they really their brothers in the first cludes mournfully: She said: "A lot of young people they are committing a sin." place? Myself, I have little sympathy for “I sometimes think that it would be have told me some horrendous stories Barbara Coupar, director of the those who fear defrocking as a dire pun- good for the church if 1,000 priests came about how PSE is used, especially going Scottish Catholic Education Service, said ishment--what does that say about all the out of the closet on the same Sunday and down a moralistic route as well, where a Catholic schools "propose the gospel, not other non-ordained ministers in the simply said, ‘We're here!’ I don't think lot of young people feel really backed impose the gospel" and had taken on Church? Yes--coming out makes gay the church is ready for that yet, but into a corner where they thought their broad guidelines against hate crime. priests vulnerable. Aren't we about to someday it should be.” thoughts and feelings were not being She added many teachers did not celebrate the birth of God into the human When would be the right time to respected." feel equipped to become counsellors for community in the most vulnerable possi- speak against injustice, bigotry, and Ms McKelvie said she had heard pupils regardless of the problem, so ble form? So, like the angel said, "Fear hate? I'm with Hillel and the Apostle teachers are "not equipped" to deal with schools were making sure teachers and not." And gay priests should know: your Paul on this one, when he said to the LGBTI issues or misogyny "because students know where the pupils can go friends, your allies, your colleagues, your Corinthians: either it's dealt with as a moralistic issue for help inside and outside the school. parishioners, your families, we've all got “We appeal to you not to receive the or it's something that they don't believe She said: "That's why we're going your backs. grace of God in vain. For God says: ‘In in." down this avenue of ensuring that within 5. "We are open in my religious an acceptable time I heard you, and on She added: "What we are looking for all of our Catholic secondary schools that community." Great. Re-read the above. the day of salvation I helped you.’ Be- is if there's a belief issue there, what we they would be able to go to someone, a What made Stonewall was coming OUT hold, now is a very acceptable time; be- want is for teachers to be able to handle trusted adult, a safe space within the of the inn, not staying inside hiding. hold, now is the day of salvation.” that, and if they can't, for whatever rea- school, where there would be someone I'm sympathetic to people who feel Yes, now is a very acceptable time. son, they're equipped to signpost those who would have had that opportunity to uncomfortable talking publicly about  kids to the right places for those kids to be trained, for want of a better word, in their own sexuality. It's especially Lisa Fullam is professor of moral get that support. order to be able to meet the needs of the fraught, perhaps, when one is a celibate theology at the Jesuit School of Theolo- "We're hearing of young people who young people in their care."  religious leader, and simply wants to get gy at Berkeley. go down the route of self-harm, attempt on with the business of building the Page 6 BONDINGS Vol. 36, No. 2 Rejection of LGBT Club at Catholic High School Ignites Backlash

By Kristen Taketa tempts to serve our students,” he said in who goes to a Catholic church, any pa- ister to LGBT students in ways other St. Louis Post-Dispatch the email. rishioner, and these students who attend than a club. He wrote: “Nerinx Hall be- February 15, 2017 In February of last year, the archdio- Catholic schools,” Jones said. “When it lieves that we can best minister to our cese published a document called “Hope comes to Catholic teaching, the archdio- LGBT students through our Loretto char- The leader of an independent Roman and Holiness” outlining guidance for cese is the arbiter of what is Catholic and ism and the Loretto school values of Catholic high school fueled widespread ministry to LGBT people. what is not.” faith, community, justice, and respect.” confusion Tuesday after he said the In one section, the document says “Hope and Holiness” does not men- The school was founded by the Sisters of Archdiocese of St. Louis had directed his that Catholic tion whether Loretto in 1924. school to bar students from establishing a schools should not such LGBT Gabriel’s letter has generated a fire- lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender establish a LGBT clubs should be storm online among Nerinx Hall alum- recognition club, unless the club includ- support club with- formed or not. It nae. A Facebook group of more than 600 ed conversion therapy. out consulting the says that al- people has already formed in the past The archdiocese flatly denies that it archdiocese. Arch- though these day about the issue. Alumnae say this requires conversion therapy of any such diocese spokesman groups can pro- isn’t the first time students have tried and organization. Nerinx Hall Catholic High Gabe Jones said vide emotional failed to form a LGBT club at Nerinx School President John Gabriel, who that meant that a support to indi- Hall. wrote that claim in a letter to an alumna, club must conform viduals, there is For 2001 alumna Beth Schumacher, later said he had used the term in error. to the Catholic also a “danger” the letter portrayed a different school Students at the all-girls school in church’s teachings in such groups’ than the one she attended 16 years ago. Webster Groves recently asked school on homosexuality, encouraging the She remembered Nerinx Hall as a pro- leadership to start a gay-straight alliance which include that labeling of sexu- gressive and “extremely open-minded” club. They did not receive permission to marriage is defined ality and gender school. do so. as being between a identity. It also “There are a lot of alumnae out there When alumna Jill Allen heard about man and a woman says that who are really, really disappointed both this, she questioned Gabriel. In response, and that acting up- “adolescents are with the decision and with the direction he wrote back that the archdiocese — on homosexual apt to suffer in a it might be going in right now,” Schu- which does not directly operate or pro- inclinations is sin- particular way macher said. “There are young people at vide funds to Nerinx Hall — has request- ful. from labeling themselves as gay.” risk. If someone is asking for a club of ed that no Catholic school allow such a Even though schools such as Nerinx The Catholic Church has said it is that nature, then there are definitely indi- club unless it followed “a carefully chart- Hall are not operated by the archdiocese, inclusive of LGBT people but has been viduals who can use that level of sup- ed course of action that includes conver- all Catholic institutions must conform to criticized by those people for staunchly port.” sion therapy.” the archdiocese’s rules when anything opposing same-sex marriage. The Catho- Allen, a 2001 graduate, wrote in a Conversion therapy is the practice of related to Catholic teaching is involved, lic Church has no official position on statement being circulated among alum- trying to change someone’s sexual orien- Jones said. conversion therapy. nae that she was “deeply saddened” by tation or gender identity through psycho- “Being the archdiocese, the arch- Gabriel said in his letter to Allen Gabriel’s letter. logical or other kinds of interventions. It bishop has pastoral responsibility for that Nerinx Hall still acknowledged Pope “I feel that this response doesn’t is extremely controversial and has been every Catholic in the Archdiocese of St. Francis’ call for inclusion of LGBT peo- reflect my experience of Nerinx,” she denounced by human rights groups and Louis. And so that applies to everyone ple but that the school could better min- wrote. “I don’t believe denying this stu- medical associations for its idea that ho- dent-led initiative is empowering for mosexuality is a disorder and students or represents Loretto values of an expression of moral weakness. Sr. Jeannine Responds to Nerinx Hall Decision promoting justice and equal rights.” When asked for comment Tuesday, Sister Jeannine Gramick, New Ways Ministry’s co-founder and lifelong Nerinx Hall currently enrolls 595 Gabriel sent a reporter a list of Nerinx Catholic advocate for LGBT people commented on the decision about and students from 72 ZIP codes. The school Hall’s initiatives to promote diversity LGBT club made by the president of Nerinx Hall, a school that is sponsored by prides itself on its high college matricu- and inclusion, which include training for her religious community: lation rates and students’ high college teachers on ministry to LGBT individu- “As a Sister of Loretto, I am embarrassed and ashamed by the stance tak- standardized test scores. Tuition is als and diversity forums for students. en by Mr. John Gabriel. Such a posture does not reflect the Loretto values of $13,600 a year. Later, he said in an email that he had The school says it has three main inclusion, diversity, and care for all. The students and alumnae of Nerinx de- “made a mistake” when he said the arch- goals: that every student “know herself serve leadership that displays these Gospel-based values.” diocese required conversion therapy of and her world,” receive a “loving com- such clubs. munity of faith” and “deliberate Chris- Bondings 2.0, “We will speak with the Archdio- Quoted from February 16, 2017 tian action.”  cese about moving forward in our at- NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com One -on-One Pastoral Care Model Is Not Sufficient for LGBT Youth By Francis DeBernardo which you should only talk about in se- youth by referring to them as having Church teaching, thus posing the threat Bondings 2.0 cret and confidential meetings with au- “same-sex attraction.” Fr. James Martin, of creating a public scandal.” NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com thority figures. When this type of pasto- SJ, noted the problem of such terminolo- When a church official speaks of February 28, 2017 ral care is the only kind offered, it can gy in the talk he gave upon receiv- LGBT issues and uses phrases like foster, even if unintentionally, feelings of ing New Ways Ministry’s Bridge Build- “doesn’t contradict Church teaching” and An editorial in the St. Louis archdi- shame, fear, and alienation. ing Award. He said: “creating a public scandal,” I always as- ocesan newspaper has commented on the A more public model, such as a “. . . [R]espect means calling a group sume that they are discussing issues of controversy which erupted two weeks GSA, helps students to recognize that what it asks to be called. . . . sexual ethics. Of course, not providing ago at Nerinx Hall H.S., a Catholic they are not alone, that they have peers “Names are important. Thus, church sensitive pastoral care to LGBT people or school, when the Nerinx president turned with whom they can discuss these issues, leaders are invited to be attentive to how actively discriminating against them both down a request from students to establish that the topic itself is not a taboo. Moreo- they name the L.G.B.T. community and also contradict Church teaching, but I a gay-straight alliance (GSA). The edito- ver, such groups provide social experi- lay to rest phrases like ‘afflicted with don’t think that these are what Nelson rial’s headline, “One-on-one pastoral care ences for youths who are at risk of feel- same-sex attraction,’ which no L.G.B.T. had in mind. I may be wrong, but I’ve suggested for adolescents with same-sex ing isolated and alone. GSAs help not person I know uses, and even never heard an official use those terms in attraction,” summarizes its main point, only LGBT youth, but heterosexual and ‘homosexual person,’ which seems over- the ways I described. and it also shows the main problem with cisgender students who may have a close ly clinical to many. I’m not prescribing If I am correct, then the big problem policies which deny students the oppor- friend or family member who is LGBT. what names to use, though ‘gay and les- here is that the archdiocesan officials are tunity to have a GSA in Catholic schools. At the heart of the controversy at bian,’ ‘L.G.B.T.’ and ‘L.G.B.T.Q.’ are only looking at LGBT issues as relating While some, and perhaps many, LGBT Nerinx Hall was the application of a set the most common. I’m saying that people to sex. They are avoiding things like youth need one-on-one pastoral of guidelines for working with LGBT have a right to name themselves. Using stigma, oppression, alienation, repres- care, such a model should not be the youth, entitled “Hope and Holiness: Pas- those names is part of respect. And if sion, family difficulties, mental illness, only one offered to them. The problem is toral Care for Those With Same-Sex At- Pope Francis can use the word gay, so self-loathing–all of which are frequently that if this is the only assistance provid- traction,” that the Archdiocese of St. can the rest of the church.” experienced by youth who have no sup- ed, the method itself sends a message: Louis had developed. Again, the title In the editorial, an archdiocesan offi- port for their LGBT identity. And these your sexual orientation is a private matter belies a negative assumption about LGB cial defended the guidelines document, are all things which a GSA would help to saying that the goal is to help youth: mitigate. “Kurt Nelson, superintendent of The editorial noted correctly: Catholic education for the archdiocese, “The one-on-one approach also pro- said the very idea that students requested vides students an experience of accompa- a club signals that they ‘want more help niment in many individual aspects of New Ways Ministry’s blog and support.’ their lives, beyond the issue of sexual While it may be true that the stu- orientation.” dents want help and support, the fact that Yes, one-on-one is a much-needed Bondings 2.0 they requested a club indicates that the form of ministry with LGBT people, es- kind of help and support they want is pecially youth. But social opportunities,

peer socialization, not one-to-one coun- community-building, group prayer, and The best way to keep up on the latest seling. If they wanted the latter, that is mutual peer support are also very need- what they would have requested. ed. GSAs can help provide that kind of Catholic LGBT news and opinions! The editorial continued: ministry. And their model of openness, “But Nelson also said that ‘just be- honesty, trust, courage, and pride which Updated daily cause you don’t have a club doesn’t they inspire are things that one-on-one mean you’re not providing help and sup- ministry simply cannot provide.  Share your ideas with others! port to kids.’ However, many factors need to be considered, such as the adults who will lead the group, as well as NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com providing content that doesn’t contradict Winter 2016-17 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 welcomes LGBT Catholics, please let us know. Tell us if this wel- come is because of a support program, spirituality group, mission statement, participation in LGBT community events, or involve- ment with parents. Parishes are listed first and intentional Eucharistic communities follow. For links to many of these parishes’ web- sites, go to www.NewWaysMinistry.org

Delaware St. Louis: St. Cronan, St. Margaret of North Wilmington: Holy Child Scotland, St. Pius V Rhode Island Wilmington: St. Joseph Providence: St. Francis Chapel, Montana St. Mary’s District of Columbia Billings: Holy Rosary, St. Pius X Wickford: St. Bernard Holy Trinity, St. Matthew Cathedral PARISHES Nebraska Tennessee Florida Omaha: Holy Family, Sacred Heart Memphis: Cathedral of the Alabama Daytona Beach: Our Lady of Lourdes Immaculate Conception Decatur: Annunciation of the Lord Flagler Beach: Santa Maria del Mar Nevada Montgomery: St. Bede Ft. Lauderdale: St. Anthony, Las Vegas: Christ the King, Texas St. Maurice Guardian Angel Cathedral Colleyville: Good Shepherd Arizona Kissimmee: Holy Redeemer Dallas: Holy Trinity Chandler: St. Andrew St. Petersburg: Holy Cross New Hampshire El Paso: All Saints Glendale: St. Thomas More Tampa: Sacred Heart, Christ the King Merrimack: St. John Neumann Houston: St. Anne Mesa: St. Bridget Pelham: St. Patrick Phoenix: St. Matthew Georgia Virginia Scottsdale: St. Patrick Atlanta: Shrine of the Immaculate New Jersey Arlington: Our Lady Queen of Peace Tucson: St. Cyril of Alexandria, Conception Keyport: St. Joseph Richmond: Cathedral of the Sacred Ss. Peter and Paul, St. Pius X, Lawrenceville: St. Ann Heart, Sacred Heart Parish Our Mother of Sorrows, St. Odilia Idaho Long Beach Island: St. Francis of Roanoke: St. Gerard Boise: St. Mary Assisi Triangle: St. Francis California Maplewood: St. Joseph Virginia Beach: St. Nicholas Berkeley: Holy Spirit Parish Illinois South Plainfield: Sacred Heart Burney: St Francis of Assisi Berwyn: St. Mary of the Celle Tinton Falls: St. Anselm Washington Carlsbad: St. Patrick Chicago: Immaculate Conception, Seattle: Christ Our Hope, St. Benedict, Claremont: Our Lady of Assumption St. Clement, St. Gertrude, New Mexico St. Joseph, Prince of Peace El Cajon: St. Luke St. Gregory, St. Peter, St. Sylvester, Albuquerque: Holy Family, Newman Center Encino: Our Lady of Grace St. Teresa of Avila, St. Thomas the Shrine of St. Bernadette Tacoma: St. Leo Escondido: St. Timothy Apostle, Our Lady of Lourdes, Our Espanola: Sacred Heart of Jesus Fremont: St. Joseph-Mission San Jose Lady of Mt. Carmel, Wisconsin Goleta: St. Mark Univ. Parish Old St. Patrick New York Madison: Our Lady Queen of Peace Hawthorne: St. Joseph (Spanish) Clarendon Hills: Notre Dame Albany: St. Vincent DePaul Menomonee Falls: Good Shepherd Hayward: All Saints Country Club Hills: St. Emeric Baldwinsville: St. Augustine Milwaukee: Good Shepherd, LaPuente: St. Martha Evanston: St. Nicholas Bellmore: St. Barnabas the Apostle Prince of Peace, Trinity-Guadalupe Lemon Grove: St. John of the Cross Inverness: Holy Family Bellport: Mary Immaculate Long Beach: St. Matthew Johnston City: St. Paul Binghamton: St. Francis of Assisi Canada Los Angeles: Blessed Sacrament, Morton Grove: St. Martha Brooklyn: St. Andrew the Apostle, Montreal: Holy Cross Christ the King, Mother of Good Oak Park: Ascension, St. Catherine of St. Boniface, St. Athanasius, Ottawa: St. Joseph Counsel, St. Camillus Center-LA Sienna-St. Lucy St. Augustine, Immac.Heart of Mary Toronto: Our Lady of Lourdes USC Medical Center (Spanish), Schaumburg: St. Marcelline Deer Park: Ss. Cyril and Methodius St. Agatha, St. Paul the Apostle East Islip: St. Mary England North Hollywood: St. Jane Frances de Indiana Elmira: St. Mary London: Church of the Immaculate Chantal, St. Patrick Indianapolis: St. Thomas Aquinas Fairport: Church of the Assumption Conception (Mayfair) Oakland: Our Lady of Lourdes Henrietta: Good Shepherd Oceanside: St. Thomas More Iowa Manhattan: Holy Name of Jesus, INTENTIONAL EUCHARISTIC Orange: Holy Family Cathedral Coralville: St. Thomas More St. Francis Xavier, St. Paul the COMMUNITIES Pasadena: Assumption of the B.V.M. 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Simon and Jude Portland: St. Andrew, St. Francis of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Assisi, St. Phillip Neri, Down- Virginia Lafayette: Immaculate Conception Minnesota town Chapel (St. Vincent de Paul) Arlington: NOVA Catholic Community Littleton: Light of the World, Minneapolis: St. Frances Cabrini, St Frances Cabrini St. Joan of Arc Pennsylvania Washington Philadelphia: Old St. Joseph, Olympia: Holy Wisdom Inclusive Connecticut Missouri Old St. Mary, St. John the Catholic Community Hartford: St. Patrick-St. Anthony Kansas City: Guardian Angels, Evangelist, St. Vincent DePaul St. James Wisconsin St. Joseph: St. Francis Xavier Madison: Holy Wisdom Monastery Page 8 BONDINGS Vol. 36, No. 2 Civil Law Has Nothing to Do with Catholic Sacraments How a secular state defines marriage has nothing to do with bishops or what is their area responsibility By Rev. Michael Kelly, SJ ippines – Catholic opposition has pre- tions. And it is by an accident of history sin!" And it was that way for centuries in InternationalLa-Croix.com vented the development of divorce laws. in some jurisdictions that Catholic mar- Ireland where Catholics were repressed December 6, 2016 Catholics need to be very careful riages and other religious marriages are with particular effect until Catholic about agitating to have our morality leg- also recognized civilly. Emancipation arrived in 1829. It continues to amaze me that Catho- islated for all to abide by. In some in- That happens in those countries in- With such a mixed history and so lic bishops the world over get trapped in stances advocating that Catholic morality fluenced by British or U.S. law and its much contemporary variation, why do the same-sex marriage cul de sac time become the law of the land would be certifying Catholic priests – along with bishops the world over make the mistake after time. deeply unjust. For example, agitating to other Christian ministers, Muslim Imams of assuming they are the keepers of the It has happened again in Taiwan and have Catholic morality on divorce and and Jewish rabbis as well – as civil cele- treasures of marriage? Why do they get is likely to happen elsewhere in Asia. remarriage become law applying across brants for the sake of simplicity. very upset when some things are pro- Whenever gay marriage or same-sex posed that will apply to the majority of civil unions become a public topic, the people in their societies and who in Asia bishops immediately become hostile. In mostly aren't Catholics? Redefining mar- some if not most instances, they contrib- riage in no way limits or restricts Catho- ute to the success of the very thing they lics from acting according to Catholic oppose. In so many instances the world teaching on marriage. What is the basis over, the opposition of bishops has been of episcopal displeasure? part of why same sex marriage has be- The simple answer must be they come law – in Latin America, the United seem to think we still live in Christen- States and Europe. dom where church morality should be Civil unions – which, in many coun- law. That social and political paradigm tries are virtually existent if not legally ended for secular, pluralist democracies declared – actually morph in to with the French Revolution over two "marriage." And Catholic opposition to centuries ago. And it never happened in formalizing what actually exists contrib- countries in Asia. utes to seeing that civil unions become Where to from here? Intelligent "marriage!" Catholics see that this is a civil rather Why am I amazed if it happens so religious matter. In some parts of the often? My answer is simple: the issue of world, some bishops sought to have civil how a secular state defines marriage has unions recognized as "the lesser of two nothing to do with bishops or what is evils" – the other being gay marriage. their area of focus and responsibility – But in almost every instance, successful the sacrament of marriage. The sacra- opposition to civil unions among same ment is a mystery that is regulated by the sex couples led to the more highly devel- church's internal system – the Code of oped gay marriage provisions applying in Canon Law. many jurisdictions. But it is something to which a man society, to Catholics and non-Catholics – But in many countries including The present pope has been reported and a woman have access if they are would rightly be seen as a violation of where I live in Thailand and other South- as saying that his efforts among the bish- Catholics or one is marrying a Catholic the human rights of the wider population. east Asian nations, and in European ops of Argentina to have civil unions and the non-Catholic is happy to be mar- As far as the state is concerned in countries with a history of anticlerical- recognized in law was one of the few ried according to Catholic rites. And it most contexts, the separation of powers ism, like France and even, perhaps most failures he had as president of their bish- may or may not have civil significance – means Catholics have no right to legis- remarkably, Catholic Italy, no such ec- ops' conference. He could see gay mar- depending on whether the state recogniz- late Catholic morality – in this case, an clesiastical overlap with civil law exists. riage coming and saw it as something es a Catholic marriage as legally binding. opposition to divorce – and impose it on In such jurisdictions, a couple seek- that flew too close to the marriage sacra- In today's world marriage is a civil a wider, non-Catholic population. To ing a Catholic sacramental celebration of ment for his liking, and believed that contract – a legally recognized bond be- impose our morality on others is a mis- their union must also get the civil mar- civil unions was a workable compromise. tween two people. In most parts of the understanding of the proper jurisdiction riage recognized by the state. And even Not so the majority of the bishops in world that means people of different gen- of the church and the proper jurisdiction in the U.K., Ireland and Australia, it is Argentina; the result: fully developed ders. Yet that contract has only the most of the state. only since the 1860s that the laws recog- gay marriage became law. approximate relationship to what Catho- What is the lesson for the future in a nizing marriages by Anglican clergy Bishops around the world should be lics believe the sacrament is. matter of social policy that will spread were extended to Catholic clergy. very careful what they wish for.  Organizing campaigns against gay across Asia, beginning from Taiwan? Until that time, most marriages unions makes about as much sense as These campaigns are wrong headed for among Catholics in the British Empire Father Michael Kelly SJ is execu- organizing campaigns to repeal divorce one simple reason: civil law has nothing were Common Law marriages (i.e. not tive director of ucanews.com and based laws. Who on earth could see the virtue to do with Catholic sacraments. civilly sanctioned but "de-facto" and in Thailand. in such a campaign? Divorce may well Lifelong monogamous marriage is a recognized under civil law as an effec- be frowned upon by church leaders and Christian concept long ago adopted and tive contract). in at least one country in Asia – the Phil- then modified by secular states. It is now Today, we would say people in revocable by divorce in most jurisdic- Common Law marriages were "living in In India, Catholic Church Offers Support for Transgender People By Shawn Sebastian people, considered the first of Ucanews.com its kind in the country. January 3, 2017 The nuns offered their venue after at least 50 building The church in [the Indian state of] owners declined to let out their Kerala has formed a group of priests, buildings, indicating the dis- nuns and laypeople to respond to the crimination prevalent in the pastoral needs of transgender people. society, says Father Madassey. Formed in Kochi under the aegis of Pro- Earlier this year, Caritas Life Support, a global social service India, the social service wing movement within the church, the minis- of the Catholic Church, an- try is significant as it is one of the few nounced a program to fight outreach programs for the transgender such discrimination. community by the institutional church in Vijaya Raja Mallika, a India. leading transgender activist in "The whole church has a big role to Kerala, is pioneering a three- play," said Father Paul Madassey, who is month pilot school for in charge of Pro-Life Support for the transgender school dropouts in Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council Kochi. Mallika said the (KCBC). He noted Pope Francis had "church has been very sup- talked about the need to give "pastoral portive" to their struggles. care to the LGBT community." "Religion plays an im- "There is an active sex racket from portant role in social and be- north India eyeing transgender people in havioral change at the grass- Kerala. They are trying to exploit the roots level," said Mallika. discriminatory situation they face," said "We don't stand for exclu- Fr. Madassey. sion but stand for inclusion India has an estimated 500,000 along with education and em- Priests, nuns and lay people honor transgender person Vijaya Raja Mallika during a func- transgender people. They are often ostra- ployment support from society tion in Kochi, Dec. 12. The Church in Kerala has formed a group to work for trans people, cized from their families and without and the state." Mallika has in what is considered the first such Church initiative in the country. (Photo provided by Ker- adequate state support in terms of em- worked in the past with Bom- ala Catholic Bishops' Council) ployment, health and education, end up bay Diocese for about three on the street begging for money or are months to support the pastoral needs of Open School Curriculum and will con- various reasons," said Mallika, noting exploited in the sex trade. transgender people there. duct classes, enabling students to finish that many transgender children undergo In mid-December, Sisters of the Mallika calls the idea of a residential class 10 and 12 examinations. psychological trauma at school which Congregation of Mother Carmel offered school for transgender people a world "The school will cater to those forces them to abandon education at an their buildings to form an exclusive first. It will be opened at Kochi on Dec. transgender people who had dropped out early age.  school for dropouts among transgender 30. The school will follow a National from schools in their early age due to