B NDINGS Vol. 33, No. 2 A Publication of New Ways Ministry Summer 2013 On Gay Unions, a Pragmatist Before He Was a By Simon Romero and Emily Schmall Faced with the near certain passage some discretion in putting his positions public, that was determinedly com- The New York Times of the gay marriage bill, Cardinal Ber- into practice. bative.” March 19, 2013 goglio offered the civil union compro- While the pope in Rome issued the But others who observed the bish- mise as the “lesser of two evils,” said doctrine, like Cardinal Bergoglio ops’ private annual assembly in 2010 BUENOS AIRES — The very idea Sergio Rubin, his authorized biographer. were “on the frontier, in the field,” and said that the cardinal was earnestly hop- was anathema to many of the bishops in “He wagered on a position of greater had to contend with the complexities of ing for compromise on the issue. the room. dialogue with society.” local politics, said Sandro Magister, a “Bergoglio’s thinking was very Argentina was on the verge of ap- In the end, though, a majority of the Vatican expert for the newspaper clearly demonstrated both with what he proving gay marriage, and theRoman bishops voted to overrule him, his only L’Espresso in . said and in the message of his pastoral was desperate to stop such loss in his six-year tenure as head of Mr. Magister noted, for instance, work,” said Roxana Alfieri, a social that from happening. It would lead tens Argentina’s bishops’ conference. But that Benedict made it clear in 2005 that worker in the communications depart- of thousands of its followers in protest on throughout the contentious political de- divorced Catholics who had remarried ment of the bishops’ central office here. the streets of Buenos Aires and publicly bate, he acted as both the public face of without an annulment should not receive “He didn’t want the church to take a condemn the proposed law, a direct the opposition to position of condemning people but rather threat to church teaching, as the work of the law and as a of respect for their rights like any vulner- the devil. bridgebuilder, able person,” said Ms. Alfieri, who sat in But behind the scenes, CardinalJorge sometimes reach- on the bishops’ 2010 meeting. Mario Bergoglio, who led the public ing out to his crit- Cardinal Bergoglio was operating in charge against the measure, spoke out in ics. one of Latin America’s most socially a heated meeting of bishops in 2010 and “He listened liberal countries. Though Roman Cathol- advocated a highly unorthodox solution: to my views with icism remains the official religion of the that the church in Argentina support the a great deal of state and 76.8 percent of Argentina’s idea of civil unions for gay couples. respect,” said population is Catholic, only 33 percent The concession inflamed the gather- Marcelo Márquez, cited religion as very important in their ing — and offers a telling insight into the a gay rights leader lives, according to a 2010 Pew study, and leadership he may now bring to the and theologian just 19 percent said they regularly attend- papacy. who wrote a tough ed mass. Few would suggest that Cardinal letter to Cardinal While the ’s support for Bergoglio, now , is anything Bergoglio and, to civil unions was shared by some of the but a stalwart who fully embraces the his surprise, re- more liberal bishops in attendance, it was church’s positions on core social issues. ceived a call from Pope Francis defeated by the majority, reflecting the But as he faced one of the most acute him less than an hour after it was deliv- broad resistance of conservative bishops. tests of his tenure as head of Argentina’s ered. “He told me that homosexuals need communion. But Benedict did not in- One priest in the province of Córdo- church, he showed another side as well, to have recognized rights and that he struct bishops how to enforce that, he ba who spoke publicly in favor of the gay supporters and critics say: that of a deal supported civil unions, but not samesex said. marriage measure, the Rev. Nicolás Ales- maker willing to compromise and court marriage.” There was little ambiguity in Cardi- sio, was suspended from his work by opposing sides in the debate, detractors Mr. Márquez said he went on to nal Bergoglio’s vehement opposition to another archbishop, Carlos Ñáñez. In an included. meet twice with Cardinal Bergoglio, tell- the gay marriage law, which was ap- essay written after the election this The approach stands in sharp con- ing him of his plan to marry his partner proved by the Senate in July 2010. In the month of Pope Francis, Father Alessio trast to his predecessor,Benedict XVI, and discussing theology. The man who months between the bishops’ meeting continued to speak out on the subject, who spent 25 years as the church’s chief would become pope gave him a copy of and the Senate vote, the cardinal, in a calling Argentina a “model for the rest of doctrinal enforcer before becoming pope, his biography, “The Jesuit.” letter, called the bill a “destructive pre- the continent” on gay rights. known for an unbending adherence to Cardinal Bergoglio’s readiness to tension against the plan of God.” Nearly three years since the passage doctrinal purity. Francis, by comparison, reach out across the ideological spectrum Clashing with Argentina’s president, of the law, more than 1,000 gay and les- spent decades in the field, responsible for and acknowledge civil unions for gay Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, who bian couples have married in Argentina, translating such ideals into practice in the people could raise expectations that he supported the law, he endorsed protests and specialized tourism for gay and les- real world, sometimes leading to a differ- would do the same as pope. But some of involving tens of thousands of people bian travelers has grown here, with about ent approach. this strategic flexibility may have against the bill, incurring the ire of some 50 tourist couples also taking advantage “The melody may be the same, but stemmed as much from Francis’ position gay rights leaders here. of the right to marry. the sound is completely different,” Al- at the time as from his personal ideology. “The reality, beyond what he may “This is something Rome cannot berto Melloni, the director of the liberal Though Benedict publicly con- have said in private meetings, was that he forgive, tolerate or allow to advance,” Catholic John XXIII Foundation for Reli- demned legal recognition of unmarried said some terrible things in public,” said Father Alessio wrote.  gious Science in Bologna, Italy, said of heterosexual couples, much less gay cou- Esteban Paulón, president of the Argen- (For related stories, see pages 2 the two. ples, there was often an expectation of tine Federation of Lesbians, Gays, Bisex- and 8.) uals and Transsexuals. “He took a role, in

Message to Pope Francis: More Gospel inclusiveness, please

By Sister ginalized by others. Jesus reached out to have examples of people like Cardinal beloved Holy Father.” WashingtonPost.com/OnFaith the lepers, healed the Roman occupier’s Dolan making some progress in follow- Perhaps the biggest change that our April 2, 2013 son, asked the Samaritan woman for ing Christ’s example. Pope Francis brings is that he seems to help, and prevented the woman taken in During Easter weekend, the cardinal be loosening the bondage of fear that has A journalist recently asked what I adultery from being stoned by judgmen- spoke on TV talk shows, where he admit- held our leadership silent - and stifled the thought about possible changes in the tal men. Pope Francis seems to under- ted that“we’ve got to do better to see that Gospel of inclusion. Maybe by washing Catholic Church with our new pope. He stand this better than many, and we now our defense of marriage is not reduced to young women’s feet, by speaking of the specifically wanted to know if I expected an attack on gay people.” He also stated needs of people who live in poverty and that relationships with women would he would say to members of the commu- by leaving behind a lot of the traditional improve. I responded that I live in hope, nity, “…God loves you. And you are pomp of his office, Pope Francis is free- and the journalist laughingly remarked made in God’s image and likeness.” ing bishops from their fear of being cen- that he had received exactly that response Francis DeBernardo, executive di- sured by a harsh Vatican. As a Catholic from every woman he had asked. rector of New Ways Ministry, which sister I know that it is not pleasant to face Yes, many of us are hopeful, based seeks to build bridges between the such censure. But I also know that Jesus mostly on the initial actions and words of Church and LGBT communities, com- was not stopped by his fear of what au- Pope Francis. We are heartened that he mented, “This is the first time that the thority would do. has reached out in humility to groups cardinal has made such a positive state- So my prayer is that Pope Francis such as the detainees at a Roman youth ment about God’s love for lesbian and will continue to model an inclusive detention center, where he washed the gay people. Such a statement is a refresh- church that welcomes all in the name of feet of young men and women on Holy ing change from the usual harsh rhetoric Jesus. My prayer includes Cardinal Do- Thursday. Including the young women that the church hierarchy uses when dis- lan and all of the other leaders of our was unprecedented. cussing LGBT issues. It is a significant church. I uge them to follow Jesus’s My deepest hope is that he will lead sign of welcome and outreach. Cardinal words to the disciples after his resurrec- our church in embracing all people who Dolan’s statement is nothing short of an tion: Fear not! feel they have been marginalized or cast Easter miracle.” This is the liberating power of wel- out because of stridency and cruelty they Maybe the bigger Easter miracle coming everyone into the community. have encountered in our church. Too came during Easter Mass at St. Patrick’s This is the life-giving realm of living the often we have been a hurtful structure Cathedral, when Cardinal Dolan was Gospel now.  rather than a caring community. Mem- quoted as hinting that even more dra- bers of LGBT communities have been matic changes were coming. He said, Sister Simone Campbell is the Exec- particularly harmed, and that is wrong. “The Church, with a capital ‘C’, is utive Director of NETWORK, A National The Gospels are filled with exam- undergoing renewal, repair, resurrection. Catholic Social Justice Lobby. ples of Jesus teaching us to reach out to I kind of think we’re seeing it today in a and welcome those who have been mar- Sister Simone Campbell particularly fresh and new way with our Page 2 BONDINGS Vol. 33, No. 2 B NDINGS Dolan: Church could do better gay outreach By Cathy Lynn Grossman On Sunday on the ABC News program “This Week,” Summer 2013 Vol. 33, No. 2 USA Today he said the church tries its “darnedest to make sure we’re April 1,2013 not an anti-anybody.” Dolan says he would tell gay men and lesbians that Francis DeBernardo, Editor Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the top U.S. Catholic prel- God loves them and they’re entitled to friendship. But he ate, says the Roman Catholic Church has to make sure that says marriage is a union between a man and a woman its defense of traditional marriage is not reduced to an at- “where children can come about naturally.” Board of Directors tack on gays and lesbians. Dolan made similar comments on CBS’ “Face the Mary Byers Dolan is president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Nation.” Matthew Myers Bishops and last month was reputed to have gathered some Francis DeBernardo, executive director of the gay Ryan Sattler votes in the Vatican conclave where Pope Francis was Catholic group New Ways Ministry, which has often been eventually elected at odds with the church hierarchy, called Dolan’s remarks Board of Advisors He made his remarks on two morning talk shows on “nothing short of an Easter miracle.” Cornelius Hubbuch, CFX Easter Sunday (March 31), just days after the Supreme “This is the first time that the cardinal has made such Anna Koop, SL Court heard arguments in two same-sex marriage cases. a positive statement about God’s love for lesbian and gay Anthony LoGalbo, OFM Dolan says the church could work on being more wel- people,” DeBernardo said. “Such a statement is a refresh- coming to gays and lesbians, noting it hasn’t “been too ing change from the usual harsh rhetoric that the church Staff good at that.” hierarchy uses when discussing LGBT issues.”  Francis DeBernardo, Executive Director Dolan, who is archbishop of New York, was blasted Matthew Myers, Associate Director by gay marriage opponent for failed lobbying efforts when (See related commentary on page 6) Robert Shine, Staff Associate the state passed gay marriage legislation in 2011.

Co-Founders Sr. Jeannine Gramick Another Vatican voice backs Rev. Robert Nugent

civil unions for same-sex couples Bondings is a seasonal publication designed to keep our subscribers informed of issues By John Allen a Eucharistic congress Sunday. The National Catholic Reporter Though Marini has no responsibility to frame policy that pertain to lesbian and gay people April 21, 2013 on matters of marriage, his comments may reopen ques- and the Catholic Church. tions about the Vatican's line in the wake of a similar posi- Another veteran Vatican figure has signaled openness tion expressed in early February by Archbishop Vincenzo Founded in 1977, New Ways Ministry to civil recognition of same-sex unions in the wake of sim- Paglia, president of the Pontifical Council for the Family. is an educational and bridge-building ilar comments in early During a Vatican news ministry of reconciliation between February from the Vati- conference Feb. 4, Paglia the Catholic gay and lesbian community can's top official on the said while the church is and the institutional structures family. It's a position also opposed to anything that in the Roman Catholic Church. once reportedly seen with treats other unions as favor by the future pope equivalent to marriage be- New Ways Ministry seeks to eradicate while he was still Cardinal tween a man and a woman, prevalent myths and stereotypes Jorge Mario Bergoglio in it could accept "private law about homosexuality and supports civil rights Buenos Aires, Argentina. solutions" for protecting for lesbian and gay persons in society. The latest expression people's rights. of support for civil recog- In some quarters, that nition as an alternative to comment was styled as gay marriage comes from undercutting bishops in New Ways Ministry Archbishop Piero Ma- both France and the United 4012 29th Street rini, who served for 18 Archbishop Vincent Paglia Archbishop Piero Marini States who at the time Mount Rainier, Maryland 20712 years as Pope John Paul were fighting off proposals (301) 277-5674 II's liturgical . for gay marriage, though Paglia insisted it's not what he [email protected] "There are many couples that suffer because their meant. www.NewWaysMinistry.org civil rights aren't recognized," Marini said. The Marini comments may also reawaken interest in www.NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com Marini, now 71, is currently the president of the Pon- the new pope's history on the issue.  tifical Committee for International Eucharistic Congress-  es. He spoke in an interview with the newspaper La (For related stories, see pages 1 and 8.) Nación in Costa Rica, where the local church wrapped up TO SUBSCRIBE Fired Catholic high school teacher tells COMPLETE AND RETURN THE FORM gay kids to take heart Enclosed is: By JoAnne Viviano years, lost her job in March. The firing came after an anon- _____ $25.00 in the US or Canada The Columbus Dispatch ymous letter from a “concerned parent” of a Watterson Columbus, Ohio student to the Diocese of Columbus, which oversees the _____ $35.00 outside US or Canada April 25, 2013 school. The letter complained that Hale’s partner was listed in the February obituary for the teacher’s mother. _____ I wish to receive Bondings, A gay teacher seeking reinstatement to a Roman Cath- In a statement yesterday, the diocese said that person- but cannot donate at this time. olic high school in Columbus said she hopes the support nel matters are confidential and declined to discuss Hale’s she has received from around the world will encourage grievance. Catholic school employees, when hired, agree Name ______young people who question their sexuality. to abide by diocesan rules, regulations and policies, Physical-education teacher Carla Hale referred to such “including respecting the moral values advanced by the Address ______youths, especially Catholic youths, during a news confer- teachings of Christ,” the statement said. ence yesterday, when she addressed her efforts to get back “The Catholic church respects the fundamental dignity City ______to work at Watterson High School in Clintonville. of all persons but also must insist that those in its employ “Hopefully, they’re seeing just the support and the respect the tenets of the church,” the statement said. State ______love that’s out there, and it’s reassuring them that regard- “Personnel who choose to publicly espouse relationships less of their sexual orientation ... we all deserve the same or principles that are contrary to the teachings of the Cath- Day ______equalities, and the world’s changing,” Hale, 57, said during olic church cannot, ultimately, remain in the employ of the phone the appearance at Stonewall Columbus in the Short North. church.” Evening ______Students, alumni and other supporters are seeking her Tootle said that position threatens any employee who phone reinstatement through various means, including a works under the banner of the church, from teachers in Cell ______change.org petition that has more than 55,000 signatures Catholic schools to nurses in Catholic hospitals to phone from around the globe. groundskeepers in Catholic cemeteries. Email ______Hale has filed a grievance and plans to appeal to the Hale’s partner, Julie Uncapher, said the attention the union that represents Catholic teachers in central Ohio firing has brought the couple, who live in Powell, is unset- after Watterson Principal Marian Hutson denied her initial tling. request on Tuesday. “I try to follow her lead and stay strong,” said Un- Please make check payable to “New Ways “I was informed that I was not terminated because I capher, 48. “Hopefully, there will be some sort of change.” Ministry”. Outside the US, please use only was gay, but ... the spousal relationship that was publicized The two have been together for about 15 years, but checks drawn on a US bank in US dollars or in the newspaper, which happened to be an obituary, is Hale said she did not discuss her sexual orientation with go to www.newwaysministry.org. against church teaching,” she said. Her attorney, Thomas students. Mail to: Tootle, said he sees little distinction between the two. Uncapher said she has struggled with guilt over Hale’s New Ways Ministry Hale also will file a complaint with the Columbus firing and believes that “if you do your job well, it should- 4012 29th Street Community Relations Commission under a city ordinance n’t matter what happens at home.” Mount Rainier, MD 20712 that makes it a crime for employers to discriminate based “It’s nerve-racking, walking on eggshells,” she said. on sexual orientation. Mayor Michael B. Coleman is “When I go outside, I wonder if people will say some- among those who have publicly supported the teacher. thing, Hale, a Methodist who worked at Watterson for 19 I wonder if people are going to care.”  Summer 2013 BONDINGS Page 3

LGBT advocates find solidarity at El Salvador gathering

By Francis DeBernardo but to support one another in their com- courage of the presenters to discuss their warming during this conference on sexu- The National Catholic Reporter mon work. As in any fledgling social work and personal stories publicly was al diversity to meet with a U.S. delega- April 27, 2013 movement, isolation is a great detriment, all the more inspiring. An American par- tion of mostly young people who trav- and the thrill of finding colleagues with ticipant told me, "People in El Salvador eled to El Salvador to be part of this On the day after the first Jesuit and whom to share the work is an enormous 'come out' at the risk of their own lives. event and to meet with Salvadoran the first Latin American was elected benefit. In the U.S., we 'come out' at the risk of LGBT leaders to learn ways to partner in pope, I was fortunate to be on the Uni- The conference was a joint effort temporary hurt feelings." the future for the protection of human versity of Central America campus, a between activists and legal specialists in Though the social atmosphere may rights. Jesuit school in El Salvador. The excite- the United States and El Salvador. Ana seem to someone from the United States The Interreligious Task Force on ment on campus that day was electric and Montano, a Salvadoran woman who is an as if El Salvador were "behind the Central America, based in Cleveland, the student body was abuzz with energy. immigration and LGBT rights lawyer in times," in some ways it is way ahead of sponsored the delegation. Participants But the excitement was not about the San Francisco, was aided in conference its large and liberal Northern neighbor. were from a diverse group of faiths and new pope. That news seemed like an preparation by John Marrin and Danielle For example, transgender issues were backgrounds, united by the common afterthought compared to the event be- Mackey, two organiz- thread of wanting to help build a network ginning that day on campus. ers from the United of justice for sexual minorities. It was Gathered in the school's Segundo States who live in El inspiring to see how the solidarity work Montes, SJ, Auditorium (named for one Salvador. Lawyers continues. In the '80s, groups were work- of the six Salvadoran Jesuit martyrs as- and legal scholars ing on economic and political oppres- sassinated at the school in 1989), some from both nations pre- sion; now the topic is oppression based 350 people took part in El Salvador's first sented at the meeting, on sexuality and gender identity. national conference on lesbian, gay, bi- discussing ways that Different from the 1980s solidarity sexual and transgender human rights. professionals in both work, however, is the fact that, in this The March 14-15 conference, "Felicidad countries could help newer version, El Salvador now has the y Diversidad Sexual como Derechos Hu- one another. support of the U.S. Embassy in the area manos" ("Happiness and Sexual Diversi- Though faith was of LGBT human rights, whereas during ty as Human Rights"), was sponsored by only a small segment the civil war, the embassy was seen as ALDES El Salvador (Asistencia Legal of the conference's the symbol of oppression. On the eve of para la Diversidad Sexual de El Salva- program, the partici- the conference, the U.S. ambassador, dor). It brought together lawyers, legal pants were keenly Mari Carmen Aponte, hosted a reception scholars, politicians, faith leaders and aware that the nation's for the meeting's organizers, presenters LGBT advocates to move forward El leading Catholic uni- and El Salvador's LGBT leaders. Apon- Salvador's burgeoning LGBT human versity was hosting te's reappointment was almost derailed rights movement. By the end of the sec- the event. Omar Serra- by U.S. congressional leaders who were Sister Jeannine Gramick lights candles in memory of ond day, more than 1,000 people had no, the campus' vice upset that she wrote a 2011 op-ed in a LGBT people murdered in El Salvador. participated in this meeting in San Salva- rector for social out- Salvadoran newspaper, praising that dor, the nation's capital. My colleague, reach, welcomed the country's leaders for signing a United longtime Catholic LGBT advocate Loret- conference, saying that it was "an honor" front and center at this conference, defi- Nations declaration calling for an end to to Sr. Jeannine Gramick, and I were part to host the program, and acknowledged nitely a main part of the agenda. When I violence against gay and lesbian people. of the program, presenting the topic of that church institutions could do more for attend conferences in the U.S. on LGBT At the reception, Aponte's enthusi- "Faith Communities as Promoters of Hu- LGBT rights, including "asking for- topics, transgender issues often feel like asm for LGBT equality showed she was man Rights." giveness" for previous inaction. All at- an afterthought. Similarly, intersex peo- obviously unperturbed by these critics. That first morning, the atrium ech- tendees were keenly aware of how faith ple (those born with genitalia and sec- Her encouraging words and gracious oed with voices filled with enthusiasm to groups have helped to spread homopho- ondary characteristics of both genders) hospitality were signals to the attendees begin the two days of meetings. The reg- bia; being welcomed to a Catholic cam- were also well-represented -- something to continue their work for LGBT human istration line snaked around the reception pus was an important positive sign that that I have seen only once at meetings in rights. The reception was an inspiring area and the aisles in the auditorium were was not lost on the participants the U.S. beginning to these auspicious two days. filled with people sitting on the steps. The human rights situation for Attending the conference was a par- By the end of the conference, Mon- Strangers welcomed one another, eager LGBT people in El Salvador is as bleak ticularly poignant experience for me be- tano, the emcee, joyously announced that to meet the people with whom they as it was in the United States 40 years cause I trace so much of how I connect during the two days, the first Salvadoran would be sharing this event. In Spanish ago. Violence, murder, ostracism and faith with social justice back to the lawyer agreeing to work on LGBT rights and English, people greeted each other, economic deprivation are all too common 1980s, when civil war raged in El Salva- cases on a pro bono basis came forward - not letting even language become a barri- for those who choose to be public about dor and Archbishop Oscar Romero and - a necessity given the economic chal- er to the camaraderie. their sexuality and gender identity. The the four North American churchwomen lenges of the populace. Montano was The excitement was certainly the "machismo" factor in Latin culture aug- were murdered. In my early 20s at the optimistic that this lawyer would be the exhilaration of this event being a "first." ments the repression sexual minorities time, those events made me see the way first of many more. She was also opti- The participants represented three dis- experience. faith interacts with social and political mistic about the future of the conference. tinct groups: University of Central Amer- Because people are fearful of com- life, and inspired passion within me to be Her words of farewell to participants: ica students, advocates who have been ing forward after a violation of their involved with justice. "Hasta el año próximo" -- "Until next working on this topic since the Salvador- rights, cases do not get prosecuted, and During those times, it was common year."  an LGBT rights movement began about statistics reflect this underreporting. That for delegations of North Americans to 20 years ago, and U.S. visitors. Over and the atmosphere is still so repressive made visit El Salvador to monitor human rights Francis DeBernardo is the executive over I heard people say how important it the fact that the conference was happen- violations and to express solidarity with director of New Ways Ministry. was to come together, not just to learn, ing all the more remarkable. And the the people there. Projects like this galva- nized my generation. So it was heart- Are Catholics shifting tone or substance on gay issues? By David Gibson he’s eagerly taken on the White House Church officials insist that the Cath- “nothing short of an Easter miracle,” in Religion News Service when needed. olic bishops have always taken a “hate the words of Francis DeBernardo of New April 2, 2013 Christopher Hale, co-founder of the the sin, love the sinner” approach, and Ways Ministry, church leaders also stress Millennial blog for young Catholics and that the positive comments by Dolan and that they aren’t softening their opposition When New York Cardinal Timothy an adviser for President Obama’s reelec- other churchmen are nothing new. to same-sex marriage. Dolan told national news programs on tion campaign, said he’s had constructive “A disagreement on the definition of At most, it appears that some leaders Easter Sunday that Catholic leaders need exchanges with Dolan, and said Dolan’s marriage is a serious disagreement. It is could be open to favoring civil unions or to do a better job of showing that their office had responded positively to Hale’s not, however, separation from the love of some alternative to gay marriage — an opposition to gay marriage is not “an March 26 Washington Post column that God,” Sister Mary Ann Walsh, a spokes- option that may not even be on the table attack on gay people,” the nation’s top urged the very kind of pastoral shift on person for the USCCB, wrote in a blog anymore. Another strategy: shifting the Catholic bishop seemed to be signaling gays that Dolan seemed to adopt. post. focus from blistering opposition to gays an important shift in tone, if not policies, Hale also cited a Religion News Yet that’s not the message many and lesbians to ensuring that religious that acknowledges two new realities. Service column by Michael O’Loughlin bishops had been sending. During the freedom and conscience rights are re- One is the election of a new pope, calling for a shift in emphasis that he 2012 presidential campaign, a number of spected in future gay rights laws. Francis, who in less than a month has said Dolan’s office also appreciated. “I bishops said that those who support civil That itself could be significant, demonstrated a clear preference for en- know he listens,” Hale said of Dolan. “I marriage for gays should be barred from though it’s not clear whether that will be gagement and inclusion (washing the feet know he has his finger to the wind on Communion, and Dolan and other bish- enough to alter the dynamic that has built of women and Muslim inmates at a this issue” of the church’s attitude to- ops cast the battle over gay marriage, and up in recent years. To be sure, the hierar- Rome youth prison, for example) rather wards gays and lesbians. against Obama, in almost apocalyptic chy will also face strong calls from its than the confrontation and political pur- Other leaders apparently do as well. terms. right flank to take a more vocal stand ism that often found favor under his pre- Cardinal Donald Wuerl of Washing- Other church leaders used especially against gay rights. decessor, Benedict XVI. ton, and his predecessor, Cardinal Theo- harsh language to describe gays and les- “Why aren’t their (Catholic) bishops The other is the ongoing shift in dore McCarrick, were also on Sunday bians, and some barred children from appearing on the tube with David Grego- favor of same-sex marriage in the court morning news shows addressing the is- attending Catholic schools because their ry and Piers Morgan to defend the insti- of public opinion and — if recent argu- sue of gay rights and stressing that the parents are gay. Many also equated sup- tution of marriage as a union of one man ments on Proposition 8 and the Defense church needed to be welcoming. As port for civil marriage for gays with sup- and one woman?” Michael Reagan wrote of Marriage Act are any guide — per- McCarrick put it, the church could be port for abortion, an action that is in a March 28 column at the conservative haps soon in the U.S. Supreme Court. open to civil unions as an alternative to grounds for automatic excommunication. news site, Townhall.com. Dolan himself has always been gay marriage. As Dolan himself conceded on East- “Like the bank executives that are viewed as a more pastoral figure than Interestingly, it’s the same tact Fran- er, though, the bishops “try our darnedest too chicken to stand up to the federal many hard-line American . As cis tried to take in Argentina, voicing to make sure we’re not an anti-anybody,” bullies in Washington, and like the ener- president of the U.S. Conference of support among Argentine bishops for but up to now “we haven’t been too good gy company bosses in who Catholic Bishops, he’s tried — whenever civil unions against a national bid to al- at that.” won’t stand up to the Green Socialists in possible — to steer the hierarchy on a low gay marriage. He ultimately lost While gay rights activists in the Sacramento, the churches cower in fear.” politically realistic course, even when both battles. church welcomed the change of tone as  Page 4 BONDINGS Vol. 33, No. 2 LGBT Catholics find a new supporter: An openly gay priest By Scott Alessi says, the floodgates are likely to open criticism from their brothers and sisters U.S. Catholic and Meier will undoubtedly receive some in Christ. May 2013 harsh criticism from many in the church. For many who have already recon- Some will probably call for him to be ciled their same-sex attraction with their In 2011, an anonymous author re- dismissed from the priesthood or banned identity as children of God, the real leased the book Hidden Voices: Re- from public ministry. He's undoubtedly "struggle" is being accepted in their own flections of a Gay, Catholic Priest. And aware of this, and hopefully he will church. Having an advocate like Meier in now the book will be re-released with a maintain his resolve to speak up for oth- the ranks of the priesthood can only help new addition: the name of its author, ers who must deal with the same type of their cause.  Father Gary Meier. Meier, a priest of the Archdiocese of St. Louis, is apparently tired of the treat- ment of Catholics who experience same- Fr. James Martin on Jason Collins sex attraction by their own church. In the By Bob Shine ans, however, accepting that they are past couple of years, we've seen head- Bondings 2.0 beloved creations of God is a lines about LGBT Catholics being denied Father Gary Meier NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com very difficult task, made more diffi- communion, fired from teaching gym May 1, 2013 cult by a variety of social pressures. class, fired from leading music ministry, Interestingly enough, Meier also ‘Coming out’ is often an important step, and removed from volunteer Splashed across the cover of Sports sometimes the most important step, to a ministry, to name just a few examples. says that his sexuality wasn't really a secret, even when he was in the semi- Illustrated this week is deeper relationship with We have even seen a straight woman Jason Collins, the first God, to spiritual whole- fired after 11 years of teaching because nary. But teachers didn't object to him becoming a priest and there was just an athlete on a male profes- ness… she privately supported the idea of same- sional sports team to “Loving means first accept- sex civil marriage. Apparently, Meier understanding that Meier, like any straight or gay man entering the priest- come out as gay. Collins ing a person, in all their had seen enough. has been celebrated across complexity and beauty, as In a statement released this week, hood, was committing to a life of celiba- cy. the sports world and the God has created him or Meier decided that as he marks 15 years internet, but he has also her. This kind of love pre- of priesthood he would publicly reveal Of course, things have changed in recent years, and it takes a lot of courage faced harsh criticism. Jes- cedes questions about judg- that he authored the 2011 book and that uit Fr. James Mar- ing the actions of any person he is in fact a celibate gay man. Meier for Meier to make such a public stand today. The initial reaction of his own tin posted the Collins’ –straight or gay. Besides, we writes: story, and then provided know how Jesus felt about "It has been difficult to remain part archdiocese has been mostly positive, as a statement released emphasizes that all lengthy remarks about our judging others. Love of a hierarchy that has been so hostile why Catholics should precedes all of that. True towards homosexuals in recent years... people are children of God and no one is to be condemned for their sexuality. The support the athlete’s com- love means loving a person Our church once stood for and represent- ing out without reserva- as he or she is–not as we statement also says that "Fr. Meier has Jason Collins ed the radical nature of God’s love for all tion. Fr. Martin writes: would wish them to be, or as people. That is not the true today – espe- before him an opportunity to be an exam- ple and mentor to Catholics in the archdi- “There are many times that Catho- we think they should be, or worse, as we cially towards the LGBT community – lics are called to support their gay broth- think God should have created him or and therefore I feel compelled to stand in ocese who struggle with the same feel- ings," which while true in the sense that ers and sisters wholeheartedly, unreserv- her. But as they are. solidarity with those Catholics who have edly and publicly. This is one of them. “As the Psalmist says, ‘I praise you lost their jobs, have been denied the sac- he will be a mentor to others may not be the best choice of words, as All of us are created by God, and all of God, for I am fearfully and wonderfully raments, have been excommunicated or us have an undeniable and unassailable made.’ We should be grateful to Mr. who have been made to feel ‘less than’ "struggle" still implies that there is still something wrong with people who human dignity. And part of that dignity Collins for reminding us that all of us by their church leaders because of who is accepting that you are a beloved crea- are indeed ‘wonderfully made.’”  they love." are attracted to members of the same sex. Regardless of what the archdiocese tion of God. For many gays and lesbi- 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 University of Notre Dame Montana Pennsylvania Mobile: Spring Hill College Helena: Carroll College Cresson: Mount Aloysius College Iowa Dallas: Misericordia University California Davenport: St. Ambrose University Nebraska Erie: Mercyhurst College Belmont: Notre Dame de Namur University Dubuque: Loras College Omaha: Creighton University Greensburg: Seton Hill University Goleta: St. Mark’s University Philadelphia: Chestnut Hill College, Los Angeles: Loyola Marymount Universi- Kentucky New Hampshire LaSalle University, St. Joseph’s ty, Mount Saint Mary’s College Louisville: Spalding University, Manchester: St. Anselm College University Moraga: St. Mary’s College Bellarmine University Nashua: Rivier College Pittsburgh: Carlow University, Oakland: Holy Names University Duquesne University Ranchos Palos Verde: Marymount College Louisiana New Jersey Radnor: Cabrini College San Diego: University of San Diego New Orleans: Loyola University Caldwell: Caldwell College Reading: Alvernia University San Francisco: University of San Jersey City: St. Peter’s College Scranton: Marywood University Francisco Maryland South Orange: Seton Hall Villanova: Villanova University Santa Clara: Santa Clara University Baltimore: Notre Dame of Maryland Uni- versity, Loyola University Maryland New York Rhode Island Colorado Albany: College of Saint Rose Newport: Salve Regina University Denver: Regis University Massachusetts Brooklyn and Patchogue: Providence: Providence College Boston: Emmanuel College, St. Joseph College Connecticut Chestnut Hill: Boston College Bronx: Fordham University, Texas Fairfield: Fairfield University, Chicopee: Elms College Manhattan College Austin: Saint Edward’s University Sacred Heart University Easton: Stonehill College Buffalo: Canisius College San Antonio: University of the Incarnate New Haven: Albertus Magnus College North Andover: Merrimack College Loudonville: Siena College Word, Our Lady of the Lake West Hartford: Saint Joseph College Weston: Regis College New Rochelle: College of New Rochelle, University Worcester: Assumption College, Iona College District of Columbia College of the Holy Cross Poughkeepsie: Marist College Vermont Georgetown University, Trinity University Riverdale: College of Mount St. Vincent Colchester: Saint Michael’s College Rochester: St. John Fisher College Florida : University of Detroit Mercy St. Bonaventure: St. Bonaventure Washington Miami Gardens: St. Thomas University Grand Rapids: Aquinas College University Lacey: St. Martin’s College Miami Shores: Barry University Sparkill: St. Thomas Aquinas College Seattle: Seattle University Minnesota Syracuse: LeMoyne College Spokane: Gonzaga University Hawaii Collegeville: St. John’s University Queens: St. John’s University Honolulu: Chaminade University Duluth: College of St. Scholastica West Virginia Minneapolis: College of St. Catherine Ohio Wheeling: Wheeling Jesuit University Illinois St. Joseph: College of Saint Benedict Cincinnati: Xavier University Chicago: DePaul University, Loyola Uni- St. Paul: St. Thomas University Cleveland Heights: John Carroll University Wisconsin versity, St. Xavier University Winona: St. Mary’s University of Dayton: University of Dayton De Pere: St. Norbert College Joliet: University of St. Francis Minnesota Pepper Pike: Ursuline College Madison: Edgewood College River Forest: Dominican University in Illi- South Euclid: Notre Dame College Milwaukee: Alverno College, nois Missouri Sylvania: Lourdes College Cardinal Stritch University, Romeoville: Lewis University Kansas City: Avila University, Marquette University Rockhurst University Oregon Indiana St. Louis: Fontbonne University, Marylhurst: Marylhurst University Canada Notre Dame: Holy Cross College, St. Louis University Portland: University of Portland Toronto: Regis College St. Mary’s College, Summer 2013 BONDINGS Page 5 Gay Catholic delivers petition to bishop asking to be reinstated McQuaid HS Juniors allowed By David Gibson ymous letter pointing out that Coppola to go to Ball together Religion News Service wed his partner under New York’s new April 11, 2013 gay marriage law. The case came to light last By Ben Amey NEW YORK—A gay man ousted week after top Catholic officials, led by RochesterHomePage.net from posts at his Long Island parish after New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan, March 28, 2013 a critic complained that he had married president of the U.S. Conference of Cath- his partner delivered a olic Bishops, said that Two gay students who attend an all-boys Catholic school will be allowed petition with more than the church needs to do to attend a school dance as a couple. That's the word from the President of 18,000 signatures on a better job welcoming McQuaid Jesuit High School in Brighton. Thursday (April 11) to gays and showing that The students had asked for permission to attend McQuaid's Junior Ball as Bishop William Mur- the institution is not a couple, and there was even an online petition to support them. In a lengthy phy, asking to be rein- “anti-anybody.” note to parents Wednesday, school president, Father Edward Salmon, said, "If stated. GLAAD responded our two brothers who have asked to attend the Junior Ball wish to do so, they “Bishop Murphy, by promoting Cop- will be welcomed." The full text of the note is below. please let Nicholas Cop- pola’s story to show Father Salmon went on to say that he was not encouraging or condoning pola resume volunteer- that the church’s ac- homosexual activity, or contradicting church teachings. ing at his parish – and tions were not matching The students are both juniors at McQuaid, and according to online peti- make it clear that faith- its words. tions, openly gay.  ful gay and lesbian The petition drive, Catholics are welcome organized by the group Here is the full text of Father Salmon's note. to participate fully in Faithful America, was parish life in your dio- Nicholas Coppola delivers another effort to put March 27, 2013 cese,” reads the peti- 18,603 signatures through pressure on the hierar- tion. Murphy is longtime Faithful America, asking to be chy, which is facing a Dear Sisters and Brothers of our McQuaid Jesuit Community: head of the Roman Cath- active in his Roman Catholic sea change in public olic Diocese of Rockville parish. Photo courtesy GLAAD opinion on gay rights as Our new Holy Father, Pope Francis, in the homily for his Inaugural Centre. well as the prospect of Mass, had encouraging and inviting words: "Today amid so much darkness we According to gay activist network state laws and even the Supreme Court need to see the light of hope and to be men and women who bring hope to oth- GLAAD, which has been assisting Cop- opening the door to same-sex marriage. ers. To protect creation and to protect every man and every woman, to look pola, a security guard at the diocese “The best part about telling my story upon them with tenderness and love, is to open up a horizon of hope, it is to let agreed to deliver the petition but said that is that it has reminded me that I’m not a ray of light break through heavy clouds." neither Murphy nor diocesan officials alone,” Coppola said Darkness and heavy clouds have gathered here at McQuaid recently be- would meet with Coppola and represent- Thurrday, according to GLAAD. “I have cause of misinformation, fear, misunderstanding, and even anger. That misin- atives of the activist groups who accom- been given so many words and signs of formation, fear, misunderstanding, and even anger came about after two of panied him. support and love by my fellow parishion- our brothers asked whether they could attend the Junior Ball together. Into the The diocese later released a state- ers at St. Anthony’s parish. I’ve been darkness of misinformation, fear, misunderstanding and anger, together with ment saying that it “respects those who stopped during my routine day by people Pope Francis, I invite and encourage each and every one of us in the McQuaid may have signed a petition” but said that who are letting me know that they care family to be men and women who bring hope to one another. I invite and en- it cannot change church teaching against for me.” courage each and every one of us in the McQuaid family to be men and women gay marriage and expects others to re- While many Catholics have voiced who look upon one another with tenderness and love. I invite and encourage spect that position as well. support for Coppola, church conserva- each and every one of us in the McQuaid family to open up a horizon of hope, Catholic doctrine “is not discrimina- tives have blasted his cause as an exam- to let a ray of light break through heavy clouds. tion against homosexual men and wom- ple of liberal intolerance and “bullying,” I myself would like to let a ray of light break through by correcting some en” and “no one has a right to discrimi- as the Catholic League’s Bill Donohue misinformation. It is simply not true, as was reported and as many seem to nate against persons because of sexual put it on Thursday. have assumed, that a decision had been made by McQuaid authorities not to orientation,” Murphy said in the state- “The American people respect the allow the young men in question to attend the Junior Ball. No decision had ment. autonomy of religious institutions to craft been made. But “all church institutions and their own rules and regulations, and they I would like to let a ray of light enter into the darkness of fear. I, together teachers of the faith are bound to support do not look kindly on bullying,” with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, who in their Pastoral this teaching, particularly by their public Donohue said in a statement. Message, "Always Our Children," ". . . call on all Christians and citizens of action,” the statement added. “How ironic it is that those who good will to confront their own fears about homosexuality and to curb the hu- In January, the pastor at St. Antho- have been screaming the most about the mor and discrimination that offend homosexual persons. We understand that ny’s Roman Catholic Church in evils of bullying are the very ones who having a homosexual orientation brings with it enough anxiety, pain and is- Oceanside stripped Coppola of his jobs are its greatest practitioners – against sues related to self-acceptance without society bringing additional prejudicial as a religious education teacher, lector Christians, no less. It’s time they learned treat-ment." and visitation minister. A top aide to the virtue of tolerance.”  I would like to let a ray of light enter into possible misunderstanding of Murphy had conveyed concerns to the the Church's teaching. In that same message, Always Our Children, the Bish- parish after the bishop received an anon- ops are clear --"Nothing in the Bible or in Catholic teaching can be used to justify prejudicial or discriminatory attitudes and behaviors." The Bishops continue: "It is also important to recognize that neither a homosexual orienta- tion, nor a heterosexual one, leads inevitably to sexual activity. One's total personhood is not reducible to sexual orientation or behavior." In that same Toronto Catholics vote message, the Bishops refer to a 1986 Letter from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith which emphasizes that "Respect for the God-given digni- to support gay-straight alliances ty of all persons means the recognition of human rights and responsibilities. The teachings of the Church make it clear that the fundamental human rights of homosexual persons must be defended and that all of us must strive to elimi- By Francis DeBernardo bullying and inclusive language,’ and nate any forms of injustice, oppression, or violence against them." Bondings 2.0 does not conflict with Catholic schools’ The Bishops continue, "It is not sufficient only to avoid unjust discrimina- NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com promotion of chastity, argued fellow tion. Homosexual persons 'must be accepted with respect, compassion and sen- May 25, 2013 student Erin Edgehill. sitivity' (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2358). They, as is true of every “Students from the gay-straight alli- human being, need to be nourished at many different levels simultaneously. The Toronto Catholic School Dis- ance club of Francis Liberman Catholic This includes friendship, [brotherhood] which is a way of loving and is essen- trict Board has turned down a pro- High School — which is called Bridges tial to healthy human development. It is one of the richest possible human expe posalbrought by two of its trustees to ban — noted they start each club meeting -riences. Friendship can and does thrive outside of sexual involvement." gay-straight alliances at the state-funded with a prayer and believe the Catholic Lastly, I would like to let a ray of light into the darkness that anger can Catholic schools in that province. faith extends to accepting those of differ- bring. Based on the misinformation circulating and a certain misunderstand- The Toronto Star reports: ent sexual identities.” ing of Church teaching, some people began posting prejudicial and humiliat- “Trustees voted 7 to 4 against a mo- One of the trustees who voted to ing comments in the social media. Speaking or writing or acting out of anger is tion Thursday by trustee Garry Tanuan support the continuation of gay-straight not usually helpful. Others, however, deeply concerned for the dignity and calling on the board to defy Ontario’s alliances explained his position in terms respect of all persons, wrote thoughtful and encouraging e-mail messages to year-old Accepting Schools Act that says of gospel inclusion: McQuaid officials. boards must let students set up gay- ‘Trustee Sal Piccininni said Catholic In conclusion and in the hope that I and all of us at McQuaid Jesuit will straight alliances (GSAs) if they wish. education must change with the times, let a ray of light break through the darkness and the heavy clouds that have Tanuan’s motion, seconded by trustee and that he was always taught that ‘Jesus sur-rounded us, I have made the decision that, if our two brothers who have John Del Grande, said gay-straight alli- accepts everybody.’ He said he was asked to attend the Junior Ball together wish to do so, they will be welcomed. ances ‘promote a positive view of homo- proud of the students who defended With this decision I am not contradicting the teachings of the Roman Cath sexual activity, which undermines Cath- GSAs at the meeting.” -olic Church with regard to human sexuality; I am not encouraging nor am I olic teaching on chastity and marriage.’ ” The decisive defeat of the attempt to condoning homosexual activity just as I do not encourage or condone hetero- But students involved in a gay- squash the GSAs is a victory for positive sexual activity at a dance. I am not contradicting the Church's opposition to straight alliance at a Catholic school says Catholic social teaching about non- the redefinition of marriage. With this decision I invite and encourage us all, that the two trustees’ notion about what discrimination. GSA’s not only help as Pope Francis does, to exercise care, protection, goodness which calls for a the student clubs do is incorrect: LGBT students feel safer, but they help certain tenderness "which is not a virtue of the weak but rather a sign of “ ‘Gay-straight alliances and Cathol- other students get over their ignorance strength of spirit and a capacity for concern, for compassion, for genuine open icism are not mutually exclusive; they go and fear about sexual minori- -ness to others, for love. We must not be afraid of goodness, of tenderness." hand in hand … and provide a safe space ties. Catholic institutions should follow for those who need support,’ said student the Toronto Catholic District School Sincerely in the Lord, Jersey David from the gay-straight alli- Board’s example by instituting programs Edward F. Salmon, S.J. ance at Mary Ward Catholic Secondary to eliminate bullying and end homopho- President School. ‘Our discussions are about anti- bia in young people.  Page 6 BONDINGS Vol. 33, No. 2 LGBT Delegates from Belarus Visit New Ways Ministry By Bob Shine months and travel restrictions imposed Bondings 2.0 by the government have limited interna- NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com tional fact-finding delegations. However, February 8, 2013 all spoke positively of progress being made, and they remain optimistic and New Ways Ministry welcomed a undaunted by their strug-gles. delegation of LGBT advocates from Bel- Belarus is a less religious nation than arus yesterday who are currently touring the US. Eastern Orthodox Chris-tians are the United States to learn about LGBT the dominant denomination, and this leadership in this nation. They visited church has close ties to the govern-ment. New Ways Ministry’s office in Maryland The delegation seemed curious that US because they wanted to connect with a Catholics so freely speak their minds. religious organization that works for They were particularly intrigued that US LGBT equality. Catholics speak earnestly with their bish- Staff members Francis DeBernardo ops and clergy about supporting the and Bob Shine joined co-founder Sr. LGBT community. Jeannine Gramick and supporter Patrick Sister Jeannine said of the morning Wojahn in explaining the ministry’s pur- meeting: “I was delighted to know that pose and programs. The New Ways Min- the women in the delegation were strong istry representatives set the work within feminists and were glad American Cath- the broader context of LGBT rights ad- olic women were likewise. That was a Back row, left to right: Patrick Wojahn, Aliaksandr Paluyan, Kiryl Prasniakov, vocacy, giving particular emphasis to the highlight for me that they really perked Irina Solomatina, Bob Shine role that Catholics have been playing in up over feminism.” Front row, left to right: Sr. Jeannine Gramick, Francis DeBernardo, Natallia marriage equality victories in recent Bob Shine commented: “The dan- Mankouskaya years. gers these human rights activists confront Kiryl Prasniakov, Aliaksandr daily gives me a helpful perspective for Paluyan, Natallia Mankouskaya, and our work in the United States. While the under such a harsh and oppressive legal LGBT advocates, like these from Bela- Irina Solomatina then explained their challenges from the Catholic hierarchy system. These men and women are do- rus, are sponsored through a newly- struggles in Belarus to support the LGBT and anti-equality activists in this nation ing important and heroic work, and it was implemented leadership program admin- community. Free speech and assembly are frustrating, the freedom we have to an honor to meet with them and be in- istered by the US State Department. rights are severely limited with public dialogue openly and honestly cannot be spired by their example.” New Ways Ministry sends our new demonstrations frequently leading to understated.” The Belarusian delegation will be friends many blessings as they continue arrests and police brutality. Police have Francis DeBernardo observed: ”I hosted at the White House this week be- their travels and for the work that lies raided four gay clubs in the last two was amazed at their courage in working fore traveling to California, Texas, Ala- ahead of them in their homeland!  bama, and New York through February.

Australian priest backs support for gay and lesbian relationships By Larissa Nicholson joy, public joy in ly. ''When Paul spoke about homosexual The Canberra Times, Australia their communion behaviour, the key is what was he actual May 3, 2013 with each other, -ly speaking about? Did he know about that's the least we two adults lovingly committing them- Australians should rejoice in com- can offer people,'' selves to each other? We haven't the mitted gay relationships and afford them he said. faintest idea, and it's quite unlikely,'' he the same legal rights and public recogni- The sacred scrip- said. tion as the union of a man and woman, tures scholar, who Father Fallon said there was a grow- says a Canberra Catholic priest. is receiving aggres- ing movement within the church towards But he stopped short of supporting sive treatment for greater recognition of gay relationships. gay marriage, saying it would be more leukaemia, said ''I'm just confident from the people I talk appropriate to give formalised homosex- there were church to that love will prevail, rather than a ual unions a different name. authorities who fixed position based on an understanding In a notable departure from the pub- saw homosexual of what's called natural law that I think lic teachings of some church authorities, behav-iour and needs revisiting,'' he said. Dickson-based priest Michael Fallon partner-ships as But the priest said he did not sup- called for a ''public celebration of com- immoral, but many port calling gay unions ''marriage'', be- mitted love for homosexual couples'', Father Michael Fallon priests he spoke to cause he said heterosexual and homo- saying he feared ordinary people were supported recogni- sexual unions were not identical. being driven away from the Catholic sity of NSW, where he met gay students, tion of com-mitted same-sex relation- ''If it happened I wouldn't lose a lot faith by views they saw as hardline and helped him look past prejudices against ships. of sleep over it, but I don't think it's a irrelevant. homo-sexual people and convinced him He said biblical references to homo- good idea to confuse the issue, so I'm Ordained in 1961, Father Fallon that their relationships should be wel- sexuality should be seen within the con- hoping they can come up with another said his time as a chaplain at the Univer- comed by the community. ''[The public text of the time, rather than taken literal- word,'' he said.  should offer] not just recognition, but If Church Hierarchy Is Serious About Welcoming Gays & Lesbians... By Marianne Duddy-Burke and asked him how the church might show its orientation or gender identity is wrong. lieves that children flourish best when Mary Ellen Lopata love to people that it often seemed intent Surely the bishops share our conviction raised by their biological parents, but — NYTimes.com on demonizing. “I don’t know,” he said. that children shouldn’t be beaten or bul- leaving aside whether that teaching is April 5, 2013 “We’re still trying. ... We’ve got to listen lied for any reason. always correct — the reality is that that to people... We’ve got to do better to see The hierarchy should also change its is not an option for every child. The bish- In an Easter morning appearance on that our defense of marriage is not re- tone. Cardinal Dolan spoke beautifully at ops would improve the lives of many ABC’s “This Week,” Cardinal Timothy duced to an attack on gay people.” moments in his interview with ABC. children, and many potential parents, if M. Dolan, the archbishop of New York, In the spirit of compromise, then — Others have not. In December 2012, Car- they would acknowledge the basic fair- spoke words that some gay and lesbian and realizing that we and the cardinal are dinal Francis E. George, the archbishop ness of evaluating all couples seeking to Catholics thought they might never hear. not soon going to agree on how the of Chicago, compared a gay pride parade adopt children according to the same Asked by the host, George Stepha- church and state should treat same-sex to a Ku Klux Klan demonstration (in standards. nopoulos, what he would say to people couples who want to make a lifetime remarks for which he has since apolo- Perhaps most important, the bishops who felt excluded from the Roman Cath- commitment to each other — we offer a gized) and in September 2012 Bishop should stop hiding from us. There is no olic Church because of their sexual ori- few suggestions that do not require the Thomas Paprocki of Springfield, Ill., said reason the bishops, priests and deacons entation, the cardinal said: “Well, the hierarchy to adjust its teachings on the that parishioners who supported candi- of every diocese in the United States first thing I’d say to them is, ‘I love you, nature of marriage, but would send a dates who favored gay rights risked eter- cannot hold regular meetings with lesbi- too. And God loves you. And you are clear message against distaste and mis- nal damnation. Those statements con- an, gay, bisexual and transgender Catho- made in God’s image and likeness.’ ” trust. veyed the very opposite of the love and lics and their families to allow them to Just words? Perhaps. But many les- The United States Conference of mercy that Cardinal Dolan expressed. speak honestly about their experiences bian, gay, bisexual and transgender Cath- Catholic Bishops should drop its opposi- The church hierarchy should also within the church. The result might not olics have been waiting for decades to tion to including the gay and lesbian publicly dissociate itself from the Na- always be agreement, but at least it could hear words of solace and comfort from a partners of American citizens in the im- tional Organization for Marriage. The be a spirit of respect and openness. church hierarchy that has too often re- migration-reform proposals now being American bishops and their allies, espe- We suspect that some of these rec- paid their fidelity with marginalization developed in Congress. Allowing gay cially the Knights of Columbus, have ommendations will be received more and condemnation. To hear Cardinal and lesbian citizens to obtain permanent poured millions of dollars into the organ- warmly than others. But having them Dolan, arguably the most prominent legal status for their partners, some of ization, which has sought to turn Afri- - received at all would be progress for Catholic in the United States, say whom face deportation, confers no legal Americans and Hispanics against the gay which we might one day have Cardinal that “Jesus died on the cross for them as status on same-sex relationships. It simp- community in fights over ballot initi- Dolan to thank.  much as he did for me,” was an unex- ly keeps two people who love each other atives regarding gay rights. The bishops pected gift to gay Catholics and their from being separated. would not tolerate such divisive behavior Marianne Duddy-Burke is executive families and allies. The bishops should support anti- in other political allies, and they should director of DignityUSA, an organization But the cardinal continued his mes- bullying programs in Catholic schools. not make an exception for National Or- of gay and lesbian Catholics. Mary Ellen sage to those who felt excluded by say- Despite repeated urgings from the faith- ganization for Marriage. Lopata is a founder of Fortunate Fami- ing, “We want your happiness. But ... ful, the bishops’ conference has refused The bishops should abandon their lies, which represents Catholic parents you’re entitled to friendship.” He also to state clearly and forcefully that bully- opposition to placing adopted children of gay and lesbian children. hesitated when Mr. Stephanopoulos ing young people because of their sexual with same-sex couples. The church be- (See related article on page 2.) Summer 2013 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 www.NewWaysMinistry.org/

Connecticut St. Joseph: St. Francis Xavier Rhode Island Hartford: St. Patrick-St. Anthony St. Louis: St. Cronan, St. Margaret of Providence: St. Francis Chapel, Scotland, St. Pius V St. Mary’s Delaware Wickford: St. Bernard North Wilmington: Holy Child Montana PARISHES Wilmington: St. Joseph Billings: Holy Rosary, St. Pius X Tennessee Memphis: Cathedral of the Alabama District of Columbia Nebraska Immaculate Conception Decatur: Annunciation of the Lord Holy Trinity, St. Matthew Cathedral Omaha: Holy Family, Sacred Heart Montgomery: St. Bede Texas Florida Nevada Colleyville: Good Shepherd Arizona Daytona Beach: Our Lady of Lourdes Las Vegas: Christ the King, Dallas: Holy Trinity Chandler: St. Andrew Ft. Lauderdale: St. Anthony, Guardian Angel Cathedral El Paso: All Saints Glendale: St. Thomas More St. Maurice Houston: St. Anne Mesa: St. Bridget Naples: St. John the Evangelist New Hampshire Plano: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Phoenix: St. Matthew St. Petersburg: Holy Cross Merrimack: St. John Neumann Scottsdale: St. Patrick Tampa: Sacred Heart Pelham: St. Patrick Virginia Tucson: St. Cyril of Alexandria, Arlington: Our Lady Queen of Peace Ss. Peter and Paul, St. Pius X, Georgia New Jersey Richmond: Cathedral of the Sacred Our Mother of Sorrows, St. Odilia Atlanta: Shrine of the Immaculate Lawrenceville: St. Ann Heart, Sacred Heart Parish Conception Long Beach Island: St. Francis of Roanoke: St. Gerard California Assisi Triangle: St. Francis Berkeley: Holy Spirit Idaho Maplewood: St. Joseph Virginia Beach: St. Nicholas Burney: St Francis of Assisi Boise: St. Mary Tinton Falls: St. Anselm Carlsbad: St. Patrick Washington Claremont: Our Lady of the Assumption Illinois New Mexico Seattle: St. Benedict, St. Joseph , Prince El Cajon: St. Luke Berwyn: St. Mary of the Celle Albuquerque: Holy Family, of Peace Encino: Our Lady of Grace Chicago: Immaculate Conception, Shrine of St. Bernadette Newman Center Escondido: St. Timothy St. Clement, St. Gertrude, Espanola: Sacred Heart of Jesus Tacoma: St. Leo Fremont: St. Joseph - Mission San St. Gregory, St. Peter, St. Sylvester, Jose St. Teresa of Avila, St. Thomas the New York Wisconsin Goleta: St. Mark Univ. Parish Apostle, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Albany: St. Vincent DePaul Madison: Our Lady Queen of Peace, Hawthorne: St. Joseph (Spanish) Old St. Patrick Baldwinsville: St. Augustine Menomonee Falls: Good Shepherd Hayward: All Saints Clarendon Hills: Notre Dame Bellmore: St. Barnabas the Apostle Milwaukee: Good Shepherd, LaPuente: St. Martha Country Club Hills: St. Emeric Bellport: Mary Immaculate Prince of Peace, Trinity-Guadalupe Lemon Grove: St. John of the Cross Evanston: St. Nicholas Binghamton: St. Francis of Assisi Long Beach: St. Matthew Johnston City: St. Paul Brooklyn: St. Andrew the Apostle, Canada Los Angeles: Blessed Sacrament, Morton Grove: St. Martha St. Boniface, St. Athanasius, Montreal: Holy Cross Christ the King, Mother of Good Oak Park: Ascension, St. Catherine of St. Augustine, Immaculate Heart Ottawa: St. Joseph Counsel, St. Camillus Center-LA Sienna-St. Lucy ofMary 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 Con- Chantal, St. Patrick Evansville: St. Mary Fairport: Church of the Assumption ception (Mayfai) Oakland: Our Lady of Lourdes Indianapolis: St. Thomas Aquinas Henrietta: Good Shepherd Oceanside: St. Thomas More Manhattan: Holy Name of Jesus, Orange: Holy Family Cathedral Iowa St. Francis Xavier, St. Paul the INTENTIONAL EUCHARISTIC Pasadena: Assumption of the B.V.M.. Coralville: St. Thomas More Apostle, Church of the Ascension, COMMUNITIES Ross: St. Anselm St. Francis of Assisi Sacramento: St. Francis of Assisi Kentucky Pittsford: Church of the Arizona San Carlos: St. Charles Louisville: Epiphany, Cathedral of the Transfiguration Scottsdale: Franciscan Renewal San Diego: Ascension, San Rafael, Assumption, St. William Rochester: Blessed Sacrament, Center St. Jude Shrine St. Mary (Downtown), St. Monica San Francisco: Most Holy Redeemer, Louisiana Syracuse: St. Lucy, All Saints California Old St. Mary Cathedral, St. Agnes, New Orleans: St. Augustine Utica: Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Orange: Koinonia St. Dominic Historic Old St. John’s Pleasanton: Catholic Community of San Jose: St. Julie Billiart, Maine Wading River: St. John the Baptist Pleasanton St. Martin of Tours (Emmaus Portland: Sacred Heart-St. Dominic Wantaugh: St. Frances de Chantal Community) Saco: Most Holy Trinity Westbury: St. Brigid District of Columbia San Luis Obispo: Old Mission of Communitas San Luis Obispo Maryland North Carolina San Raphael: Church of San Raphael & Baltimore: Corpus Christi, Charlotte: St. Peter Florida Mission San Raphael Archangel St. Francis of Assisi, St. Ignatius, Durham: Immaculate Conception Tampa: Franciscan Center Santa Barbara: OL of Guadalupe St. Matthew, Fayetteville: St. Patrick Santa Cruz: Holy Cross St. Vincent dePaul Raleigh: St. Francis of Assisi Maryland Santa Monica: St. Monica Columbia: St. John the Evangelist Greenbelt: Greenbelt Catholic Simi Valley: St. Rose of Lima Gaithersburg: St. Rose of Lima Ohio Community Spring Valley: Santa Sophia Hagerstown: St. Ann Akron: St. Bernard Stanford: Catholic Community at Stan- Severn: St. Bernadette Cincinnati: St. George-St. Monica, Michigan ford University St. Robert Bellarmine Grand Rapids: Marywood South Pasadena: Holy Family Massachusetts Cleveland: Blessed Trinity, Kalamazoo: Lambda Catholics Valinda: St. Martha Boston: Paulist Center, St. Anthony St. Malachi, St. Martha Vernon: Holy Angels Catholic Church Shrine, St. Cecilia Columbus: St. Thomas More Minnesota of the Deaf East Longmeadow: St. Michael Newman Center Minneapolis: Spirit of St. Stephen's Walnut Creek: St. John Vianney Newton: St. Ignatius Fairlawn: St. Hilary Catholic Community West Hollywood: St. Ambrose, Provincetown: St. Peter Mentor: St. John Vianney St. Victor Sharon: Our Lady of Sorrows University Heights: Church of the Oregon Whittier: St. Mary of the Assumption Springfield: Sacred Heart Gesu Portland: Journey and Koinonia Westlake: St. Ladislas Catholic Community Colorado Michigan Wooster: St. Mary of the Immaculate Arvada: Spirit of Christ Ann Arbor: St. Mary Student Parish Conception Washington Avon: St. Edward Detroit: St. Leo, Christ the King, Gesu Olympia: Holy Wisdom Inclusive Colorado Springs: Our Lady of Parish Oregon Catholic Community Guadalupe, Sacred Heart St. Ignace: St. Ignatius Loyola Beaverton: Mission of the Atonement Denver: St. Dominic, Christ the King, Westland: Ss. Simon and Jude Portland: St. Andrew, St. Francis of Wisconsin Mount Carmel Assisi, St. Phillip Neri, Down- Madison: Holy Wisdom Monastery Fort Collins: Blessed John XXIII Minnesota town Chapel (St. Vincent de Paul) Genessee: St. Frances Cabrini Shrine Minneapolis: St. Frances Cabrini, To add your faith community to our Highlands Ranch: Pax Christi St. Joan of Arc Pennsylvania list, please contact New Ways Minis- try at [email protected] or Littleton: Light of the World, Philadelphia: Old St. Joseph, call 301-277-5674. St Frances Cabrini Missouri Old St. Mary, St. John the Kansas City: Guardian Angels, Evangelist, St. Vincent DePaul St. Francis Xavier, St. James Page 8 BONDINGS Vol. 32, No. 2 Catholics protest in support of gay rights at Detroit archdiocese Anti-gay protesters demonstrate at Dignity anniversary Mass

By Patricia Montemurri Sunday mass at . “By joining with retired Bishop Thomas Detroit Free Press But some conservative Detroit-area Gumbleton as celebrant, Marygrove Col- May 2, 2013 Catholics are upset and say they’ll pro- lege is attending to the pastoral needs of test the mass and ask Vigneron to block all God’s children.” The controversy over the rights of it. Since 1997, Catholics who are gay, gay Catholics is heating up in the Detroit Vigneron is aware of the weekly lesbian, bisexual or transgender gather area. Dignity mass at Marygrove, archdiocese for a weekly Sunday mass at the This afternoon, supporters of gay spokesman Ned McGrath said. Marygrove College chapel. Before that, Catholics gathered for a prayer vigil in “There are hundreds of masses cele- the group met at Most Holy Trinity near front of the Archdiocese of Detroit’s brated in the Detroit archdiocese every downtown Detroit. chancery headquarters. They prayed to weekend. It’s always Archbishop Vigne- DignityUSA, a support group for protest Archbishop ’s ron’s expectation that these liturgies are LGBT Catholics with chapters in 46 cit- comments last month that Catholics who conducted in full conformity with the ies, holds weekly Catholic masses support gay marriage or unions should Catholic Church’s teachings and practic- for members , usually in a rented not present themselves to receive com- es,” McGrath said. space or borrowed non-Catholic sanctu- munion. Vigneron is currently in France with ary. About 25 people sang, “All are wel- the Knights of Malta, a Catholic group, Detroit is one of the few chapters come in this place,” and marched with accompanying ill and disabled children that holds its weekly service in a Catho- rainbow flags in front of the downtown on a pilgrimage to the Our Lady of lic chapel, said national executive direc- chancery building, saying they had gay Lourdes shrine. tor Marianne Duddy-Burke. relatives and friends. Sister Mary Jane Herb, president of Some local Catholics have said they Artemae Anderson, 69, of Detroit the Monroe-based Immaculate Heart of are planning to protest at Marygrove said she attends mass regularly, receives Mary nuns who founded Marygrove Col- Artemae Anderson, 69, of Detroit against the Dignity mass, said David communion and supports gay marriage. lege, said the Dignity mass is welcome at par-ticipates in a prayer vigil today Theisen, a White Lake Township real “It’s very hurtful,” Anderson said of the campus. Retired Detroit Auxiliary to sup-port the rights of gay Catho- estate broker active in anti-abortion Vigneron’s comments. “If we just follow Bishop will be the lics in front of the Archdiocese of groups. the gospel message of Jesus, we’ll be celebrant of Sunday’s anniversary mass, Detroit's headquarters downtown. Theisen said he wants to support OK.” and other priests rotate to officiate. Vigneron and his stance that Catholics This weekend, another support “The Sisters, Servants of the Immac- who support gay unions or marriage ulate Heart of Mary, support the open- ops about homosexuality. group for Detroit-area gay Catholics, “In this statement, the bishops stated should not receive communion. known as Dignity Detroit and part of the ness of Marygrove College to host Dig- “This (Dignity) mass is a public nity Detroit’s 39th anniversary celebra- that gay and lesbian persons are ‘God’s national DignityUSA organization, will precious creation,’ and the bishops ask us witness against church teaching’” on mark its 39th anniversary with a Satur- tion,” said Herb, citing a 1997 statement homosexuality, Theisen said.  by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bish- to accept and love these individuals as day banquet in Dearborn and weekly gift(s) of God,” Herb said in a statement. Laity Is Changing the Hierarchy’s Position on Same-Sex Relationships By Francis DeBernardo and Recognition to Unions Between Homo- erate on this issue. But this moment is that extends to gay and lesbian couples Sister Jeannine Gramick sexual Persons" countries in which Ca- worth studying and celebrating nonethe- legal protections and benefits that they HuffingtonPost.com tholicism is the dominant religion -- Ar- less. are now denied in most states in this April 29, 2013 gentina, Portugal, Spain, Uruguay and Reform-minded Catholics are often country. It could speak in less vitriolic now France -- have legalized same-sex told that the church is not a democracy. terms about same-sex couples and their In 2003, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, marriage. Ireland and the United King- In the conventional political sense, that families, as the bishops of England and who was then prefect of the Roman dom seem likely to do the same. In the may be true. But the church ministers in Wales did recently in acknowledging Catholic Church's Congregation for the United States, Catholic politicians such democracies. And in country after coun- "that many same-sex couples raise chil- Doctrine of the Faith, wrote that "respect as Andrew Cuomo of New York, Chris- try, Catholic voters have gone to the dren in loving and caring homes." for homosexual persons cannot lead in tine Gregoire of Washington and Martin polls, ignored the often heavy-handed The Catholic hierarchy is by no any way to approval of homosexual be- O'Malley of Maryland, have led success- lobbying of their bishops, and voted in means committed to this sort of concilia- havior or to legal recognition of homo- ful campaigns to establish marriage favor of marriage equality, or legislators tory course, and bishops in the United sexual unions." equality in their states. who support marriage equality. They are States are among the most zealous in Ten years later, the Catholic hierar- Faced with mounting evidence that changing the teachings of the church by working against the interests of lesbian, chy may be in the process of repudiating the hierarchy is rapidly losing influence changing the culture in which the church gay, bisexual and transgender people and the teaching of its former pope. In an in Europe and the Americas, and alienat- functions. their families. But the demographic forc- interview with a Costa Rican newspaper ing the faithful in the process, some lead Pope Francis himself has participat- es that inspired a future pope and several recently, Archbishop Piero Marini, presi -ing bishops are seeking to soften the ed in this trend. In 2010, with the Argen- high profile European bishops to seek a -dent of the Pontifical Committee for In- hard line that Benedict XVI drew when tine government poised to write marriage compromise are clearly present in the ternational Eucharistic Congresses, told he was still Cardinal Ratzinger. Their equality into law, Cardinal Jorge Mario United States. a reporter that society should "recognize argu-ment -- articulated by prelates from Bergoglio urged his fellow bishops to Although the U.S. bishops and their the union of persons of the same sex, Co-lombia, France, Italy, Germany, the support civil unions as a compromise. allies, including the Knights of Colum- because there are many couples that suf- Unit-ed Kingdom, the United States and His colleagues rejected this strategy, and bus, have poured millions of dollars into fer because their civil rights aren't recog- with-in the Vatican itself -- is that mar- the future pope led a futile campaign to opposing legal recognition of same-sex nized." riage, even civil marriage, must be de- persuade voters in that heavily Catholic relationships, Catholic support for mar- His comments came on the heels of fined as a relationship between one man country to discriminate against same-sex riage equality has leapt from 40 percent an interview in which Cardinal Chris- and one woman, but that legal recogni- couples. to 59 percent in the last decade, accord- toph Schönborn, the Archbishop of Vien tion of same-sex relationships is permis- No one knows how Francis will be- ing to a recent survey by ABC News and -na and editor of The Catechism of the sible or even desirable. have now that he is pope. Progressive the Washington Post. Those numbers are Catholic Church, said: "There can be This new position is not one that Catholics have learned through decades even higher among younger Catholics, so same-sex partnerships and they need many lesbian, gay, bisexual and of bitter experience to live with high the course of lay opinion on this issue respect, and even civil law protection." transgender Catholics, their friends and hopes but low expectations. We under- seems well established. Members of the Catholic hierarchy families will endorse because it falls stand that a hierarchy that opposed mar- The choice before our bishops now are seldom so straightforward in contra- short of full marriage equality. Nor is it riage equality but tolerated civil unions is whether to continue a divisive battle dicting the Vatican. Yet in the decade clear that members of the hierarchy will would be a mixed blessing, but a bless- that will only diminish their own authori- since Ratzinger issued "Considerations maintain this stance if they determine ing nonetheless. ty, or to follow where the laity has led. Regarding Proposals to Give Legal that it is no longer useful to appear mod- If the pope adopted the position es-  poused by Schönborn and others, the Catholic hierarchy would have no reason Francis DeBernardo is executive Vatican Official on Civil Unions to oppose including the same-sex part- director and Sister Jeannine Gramick, SL ners of U. S. citizens among those who is co-founder of New Ways Ministry, a Bondings 2.0 including gays and lesbians. In some could be granted citizenship under the member of the Equally Blessed, coali- NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com quarters, that was seen as softening the immigration bill about to come before tion, which works for LGBT equality in May 14, 2013 Vatican’s line on gay marriage at a time the U. S. Senate. The hierarchy could the Catholic Church and the wider socie- when bishops in various countries are support or remain neutral on legislation ty. Archbishop Vincent Paglia, the head trying to resist a push for it. Did you of the Vatican’s Pontifical Council on learn anything from that episode? the Family, was recently interviewed by “PAGLIA: Yes, that I have to be New Ways Ministry’s blog National Catholic Reporter’s John Allen, more careful in how I talk about these who asked the prelate to clarify his re- things, and more aware that words can cent statements which supported civil be derailed. You may think they’re going Bondings 2.0 unions for lesbian and gay cou-ples. to take you to the station, but in reality Though some commentators felt that they can carry you to the edge of a cliff! Paglia had retracted his support, his But to make clear to you what I actually The best way to keep up on the latest comments in the Allen interview indicate meant at the time, I proposed what the that he continues to back civil un-ions. church has maintained: it is a matter of Catholic LGBT news and opinions! Here’s the relevant excerpt: [protecting] individual rights. Facing the “ALLEN: Speaking of private law, explosion in various forms of living to- Updated daily! you recently created a small media fren- gether today, I simply called on states to Share your ideas with others! zy by suggesting that nations could find find solutions which help people and “private law solutions” to protect the avoid abuses.  rights of unmarried couples, potentially (For related stores, see pages 1 &2) NewWaysMinistryBlog.wordpress.com