Guest to Ally to Friends to Community- Creating the Kingdom of God

Our LGBTQ+ Ministry will be sharing stories during June, Pride Month, from its members and leadership. Today, we share Mary Lou's reflection. She is a member of the Leadership Team.

 

GUEST TO ALLY TO FRIENDS TO COMMUNITY- CREATING THE KINGDOM OF GOD

In my last parish, the one before St. Paul’s, I sat in pretty much the same pew, around the same people for years. At one point, my husband made the decision to quit coming to Mass. It was a lonely experience, made lonelier because it took two years before anyone asked me where he was. I wondered how we could be so detached from each other, superficially friendly, but with no meaningful engagement with each other? Has that been your experience in church?

 St. Paul’s, for me, has been different. I have been coming here for several years now, and it took a while here, too, but sitting in the same pew around the same people, connections were made. The woman who sits behind me began to share with me some of her struggles as a mother and I shared mine - personal stuff. A friendship with Bruce began when I congratulated him on entering the church, Then I met JT, chatting each Sunday after Mass. One Sunday he asked me if I was going to the LGBTQ+ Social that week. I was surprised - “Is it OK for me to come?” I asked. After all, I’m straight. JT laughed at me and said “You’re an ally - of course you’re welcome!” So, I went.

 What was it like for me at my first St. Paul’s LGBTQ Social? I felt a little shy but immediately saw my Sunday pew neighbors and conversation just flowed. Good food and excellent wine helped, but it was the warmth of this community that made me feel quickly at home. And why shouldn’t I feel that way? What we share in common - our beautiful faith that commands us to love one another - is far more important than anything that makes us different.

As different parts of the body of Christ, we belong to each other and function best when we function together. What I love about that monthly social is that we talk - about our lives, about the simple stuff and the important stuff. And, we laugh together. We set up together, we clean up together, we share food and we share our lives together. These are the activities that transform a church into a true community. So, if you are like I was - wondering if I am welcome at the monthly LGBTQ+ Social, the answer is YES!

-Mary Lou 

LGBTQ+ Ministry Event Schedule

 Read more reflections