EDITORIAL Brave steps to correct the course
It recently came to our attention
that we had missed one of those remarkable little moments in the life of the
church that point to enormous hope. The moment we missed was an Advent homily
by Bishop William Newman of the Baltimore diocese during a Mass for Gay and
Lesbian Catholics at St. Bernadette Parish in Severn, Md.
The talk is significant because, in a church where language such
as objectively disordered should be applied to no one, Newman
speaks lovingly and inclusively of gay and lesbian Catholics. His language is
empathetic and insightful of the gay and lesbian experience. Most significant,
in language dramatic because of its simplicity and directness, the bishop asks
forgiveness.
John the Baptists role, said Newman, was that of
bridge building. For us he connects the Old Testament with the New Testament.
He connects us with Jesus, our Savior.
In a sense, today I feel like John the Baptist, a bridge
connecting the church community with you, the gay and lesbian Catholic
community. And Cardinal [William] Keeler and Bishop [Gordon] Bennett add their
support to this connection.
Newman refers to lesbians and gays as an integral part of the
church, children of God and companions together in this
journey of faith. Simple terms, well worn in this church. Yet
refreshingly new in the context of gay and lesbian Catholics.
Gays and lesbians, he said, have to deal sometimes with separation
from family, friends and church. You perhaps have had to climb the
mountains of prejudice and discrimination, which need leveling. Or have had to
contend with the winding ways of cruel humor, attitudes and ignorance, which
need straightening out. Or perhaps you have had to negotiate the rough roads of
verbal and physical abuse.
Recalling the popes plea for the Jubilee Year, that the
church should become more fully conscious of the sinfulness of her
children, Newman said:
I lead the church community in seeking the forgiveness of
our loving God for the sins individually and collectively the church has
committed against the gay and lesbian community. We are all children of God
made in Gods image and should enjoy the dignity of being a human person.
For the times we have stripped you of your human dignity, we ask Gods
forgiveness. Our relationships with one another should reflect the mystery and
love among the three divine persons in God.
For the times we have not
accepted you for who you are, we ask Gods forgiveness. We are all one
human family in the world and in the church. We need each other, to affirm each
others gifts and to support one another that everyone may have the
opportunity to reach his or her potential. For the times we have deprived you
of those opportunities, we seek Gods forgiveness.
One homily will not erase the violations of human dignity, too
often abetted by church pronouncements and attitudes, experienced by gays and
lesbians. It is essential, though, to take note of any steps in courage that
begin to correct the course. Let us all join Bishop Newman in asking
forgiveness.
National Catholic Reporter, March 23,
2001
|