Melody's Reflection - LGBTQ+ Ministry Pride Month 2024

It is with great joy and gratitude that I reflect on my journey at St. Paul Parish since the time my husband and I joined in 2011. What first brought us here was the children’s church and nursery, a very uncommon and much appreciated offering for a Catholic parish. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed and im mediately felt at home. Over the past 13 years, we have made life long friends, raised our two children within this loving community, and watched them thrive through the parish school and various ministries.

Now, as our kids have grown into teenagers, I find myself more aware of the broader societal issues, particularly the growing intolerance toward marginalized groups of people. My passion for LGBTQ+ ministry, in particular, stems from the fact that fewer people are willing to become directly involved, for obvious reasons, and therefore I feel that the need to support such a ministry is even greater. While our parish also cares for and supports other marginalized groups, such as the poor, homeless, immigrants and refugees, the LGBTQ+ community faces unique and intense persecution, and I feel a strong urge to offer my support.

My husband and I were greatly encouraged when Bishop John Stowe established the LGBTQ Outreach Commission for our diocese. Even before this initiative, St. Paul Parish had been a beacon for minister ing to our LGBTQ siblings, hosting various events and regular socials that build friendship and commu nity. Since I began attending the revived LGBTQ+ monthly socials last year, I’ve formed wonderful new connections. This year I also joined the ministry’s newly formed Leadership Team and am very excited about the future. To me, it’s impossible to overstate the importance of the LGBTQ+ ministry — it’s all about loving our neighbor. As Christians, we’re called to embody God’s love in every interaction, em bracing everyone without judgment or discrimination.

I want to invite all of you to join me at the next LGBTQ+ social. Bring your friends and family. These events are wonderful opportunities to build community, get to know one another, and grow in our faith.

-Melody

LGBTQ+ Ministry Event Schedule

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