Gay Catholics Come Out

[Newsjock]

Source: Metro Silicon Valley

The Diocese of San Jose has long been one of the most gay-friendly Roman Catholic ecclesiastical territories in the United States. Few people know this, and many in the local Catholic community would like it stay that way.

On the orders of former Bishop Roland Pierre DuMaine and current Bishop Patrick Joseph McGrath, the diocese has been able to offer ministry and support to local gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Catholics for more than 20 years by operating under the radar.

Recently, progressive Catholic leaders and members of the San Jose religious community are working to change this tentative approach to gay Catholic ministry.

In fact, led by Pedigo, St. Julie Billiart Parish has developed a strong following among Silicon Valley's gay Catholics. Currently, the church's pastoral staff is considering a proposal to take even more open and bold steps toward the establishment of church-directed LGBT outreach, along with helping other parishes extend a hand to their own gay parishioners.

... Even the few clergy members who acknowledge the gay Catholic community feel that they have to keep their ministry on the down low. Many fear retaliation by conservative Catholic factions if they upset the apple cart, particularly those who supported Proposition 8 last year, like Oakland Bishop Salvatore Cordileone, who helped spearhead the initiative.

Read more: http://www.metroactive.com/metro/11.18.09/cover-0946.html

[wryter2000]

1. I wish them well on this journey

Even we Episcopalians have to deal with the backlash of doing the right thing. These people face tremendous obstacles.

[CatholicEdHead]

2. Good for the local bishop, McGrath

So he will keep the status quo until he turns 75 then odds are a regressive bishop to demolish everything after him (has happened in other parts of the country).

The statement on marriage was approved yesterday by the 2/3rds margin. It is only temporary and can easily be overturned by future meetings of the US bishops (probably will eventually but later than sooner).

Enjoy what you have in the San Jose Diocese and use this opportunity in spite of the rest of the church to show there is nothing to fear from the GLBT community so it can be shown as examples to the rest of the country to change hearts and minds.