Reflecting on our shared journey this year fills me with gratitude for the strides we've taken. This week’s events mark a significant milestone for DignityUSA and the LGBTQIA+ Catholic community worldwide. The Vatican’s announcement is a profound recognition: same-sex couples can now receive blessings from priests—the first official acknowledgement that our relationships can be holy that we’ve seen from the Catholic Church hierarchy. While we acknowledge that this is a small step, we can’t downplay the importance of this shift. It is a stark reversal from a past practices which denied us these blessings and caused significant pastoral harm. It symbolizes a willingness to reconsider discriminatory theology. It's also a validation of the tireless efforts by LGBTQIA+ Catholics and allies to affirm that our identities align with our faith. This statement signals progress towards full equality, reflecting the growing belief among many Catholics that LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships are sacred. We encourage pastors to embrace this opportunity, offering blessings to same-sex couples seeking affirmation. This support from our Church matters deeply and can make a profound difference in the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals, fostering a space for celebration and acceptance of our lives and our relationships. In this time of Advent anticipation, we support this declaration welcoming couples from our community into the Church. We realize that there is still much more work to be done. Your donations to DignityUSA's Advent Appeal propel us forward in our mission. Will you help us continue to foster dialogue promoting a more inclusive Church and world?
With sincere gratitude, Marianne Duddy-Burke Executive Director, DignityUSA |
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