It’s not about us and them, it’s about us! “He had a role to play in his brother not feeling welcome” was one participant’s observation based on what was shared in the online talk, Love and Same Sex Attraction,- https://youtu.be/qblsL2TqrHw?si=Jaf-jVrIHk0R6zE7 by Fr. Mike Schmitz, which was the focus of the meeting.  

“So much time was spent not referencing same sex attraction, it reminded me of today’s gospel from Matthew 7: 1-5, “Do not judge…”

God calls me to peace, love and mercy. We put limits on ourselves, “you see me, I not dealing with that. But really God is inviting me to become an instrument of peace, love and mercy to all including persons with same sex attractions” was what resonated with one participant which caused deeper reflection. “Many persons have a position that they don’t want to deal with it. I didn’t want too either. I am not there anymore” another participant shared confidently.

God is calling us to respond to His love. It’s not about us and them. It’s the recognition of the part we play in each other’s lives. 

EnCourage is a support group for parents, siblings and family members of persons who experience a same sex attraction. They meet monthly on the 3rd Monday of each month. 

Fr. Mike also spoke about tolerance, which he explained as something you do to them, we aren’t called to tolerance, we aren’t called to acceptance. When it comes to the Church, it is never about us and them. If you are someone who experience same sex attraction, you are not tolerated by the Church or accepted by the Church, you belong in the Church! It’s not about them, it’s about us!

The next EnCourage meeting in on Monday, July 21 at 7pm. If you are a parent, sibling or family member of some with a same sex attraction, and want more information, please contact us at encourage.trinidad@gmail.com or visit couragerc.org for resources.