You may have read that on September 1st, Jesuit Father James Martin met with Pope Leo XVI, and they discussed the Holy Father's approach to LGBTQ ministry. Among other things, in his article about their meeting Fr Martin offered a five-step plan for dioceses and parishes:
Acknowledge that LGBTQ Catholics exist.
Listen to them.
Welcome them with programs designed for LGBTQ Catholics.
Include them in parish and other ministries.
Advocate when there is violence, bullying, or harassment.
When we speak with diocesan officials, we encourage them in all five of Fr Martin's areas. And when we speak with gay Catholics, we give correlated pieces of counsel.
Be visible as witnesses in your communities, sharing your story so others know how Jesus works in gay people's lives.
Speak honestly, affirmatively, and from the heart, and listen when others' stories differ from your own.
Invite others to encounter the wisdom and beauty that the Church has to offer, welcoming others as you are welcomed.
Imagine how parish and other ministries might help gay people grow as disciples.
Advocate for others, seeking areas of solidarity in service to the common good.
Fr. Martin's advice helps dioceses receive the gifts gay people bring. Our corresponding advice comes from our conviction that dioceses which receive these gifts will discover that gay people are, themselves, gifts for the Church.
Building Catholic Futures from the heart of the Church.