On Thursday, May 7, a group of ten (10) parents, hosted by the Archdiocesan Family Life Commission (AFLC) and facilitated by Fr. Matthew Ragbir, gathered again for a deeply moving session built around the book “When a Child Comes Out”, sharing stories, struggles, and the quiet courage it takes to love unconditionally. What unfolded was not simply a discussion — it was a transformative experience that reminded every parent in the room that they are not alone.
The session explored the journey parents face when a child discloses their same-sex attraction. Drawing from the book’s core principles, the group examined how to maintain strong, loving relationships with their children while navigating deeply held religious beliefs, community pressures, and personal emotions.
Through case studies and honest conversation, parents were challenged to see their child’s coming out not as a crisis, but as an invitation — an opportunity to know and love their child more deeply than ever before.
What made the evening particularly powerful was the openness with which parents shared their own journeys. Participants reflected on the importance of hearing others’ stories and finding pieces of their own experience reflected back at them. As one parent expressed, the session offered “the identification of experiences that we had” — a reminder that the confusion, grief, love, and hope they carry are shared by many.
Parents highlighted the value of “praying together, educating yourself and seeking the right support,” noting that, prayer, knowledge and community are essential companions on this road. Several were struck by “the distinctions made regarding coming out for the child, alongside the transformative experience of the parent” — a powerful reframing that shifts the focus from fear to growth, for both generations.
The creative and thoughtful approach of the sessions also resonated deeply. “Knowing that there are others facing the same challenges,” one parent noted, “and hearing the different — or same — ways of handling them” brought genuine comfort and practical wisdom.
Above all, one message rang out with clarity and conviction: “Love is the answer — love of God first, and unconditional love and support for our children.” For these parents, maintaining the relationship with their child, regardless of disagreement or uncertainty, remains the non-negotiable foundation.
As the session closed with prayer and reflection, it was clear that this group of parents is doing the hard, holy work of choosing love — again and again — one conversation at a time.
If you are a parent navigating your child’s same-sex attraction and would like to join the conversation, you can contact familylife@catholictt.org.