James Martin: spiritual reflections for lGBT+ Catholics

Reflections of Father James Martin, SJ published on America Magazine.org (United States) on March 7, 2018. Freely translated by the volunteers of the Gionata project.

In recent months I have listened to many people from Catholic LGBT who struggle to reconcile their faith with their own place in the church. The most frequent questions concern the coming out, or the moment when you choose to share with your family and friends the reality of your orientation or identity.

For many people, young and adults, this step can be frightening, especially if you have the feeling that the Church or even God are against them. But even after coming out, the inner struggle can continue, both towards the faith and of the Church itself.

Here, then, five important truths to always keep in mind.

1. God loves you

I know, it may seem obvious or even obvious, but for those who feel little loved or accepted by others, this is an essential Message. god created you and God loves you.

Maybe you are wondering: "How can I be sure?". In reality, it is one of the fundamental messages of both the ancient and the New Testament. The ancient testament tells the story of God's alliance with the people of Israel, an unwavering link that testifies to his love for us, always and in any case. The New Testament, on the other hand, shows us God who manifests himself in the face and life of Jesus. The entire existence of Jesus was an announcement of love: he loved people and made them aware of what they were loved by God. In words Simple, as John's first letter says: "God is love".

In addition to the Bible, think of all the people of your life who love you, accept you and want the best for you. God's love acts through them. In what way do you think God can show you his love, if not through the people around you?

It may be that you think: "People accept me as long as I hide who they are, but if I really expose myself, nobody will love me". It is true that in many situations LGBT people are rejected, out of fear, ignorance or prejudice. Unfortunately, sometimes this refusal is even justified with religious motivations. A study on people LGBT homeless in the United States revealed that the main cause for which many young people have been forced to leave their home are the religious beliefs of the parents.

But those who really love you will accept you for what you are, even if for someone this process will take time.

If now you feel you are not loved or accepted, try looking within you. for Example, do you feel the desire to live a full and authentic Life? where do you think this desire Comes? From God. it is his voice that calls you towards a greater freedom, because God wants the best for you.

So, do not listen to those who say that God hates you, refuses you or condemns you only because you are an LGBT person. It is a lie that does not deserve a single moment of your attention. Instead, focus on the compassionate love of God for you and seek the signs of this love inside and outside you.

2. God created you

If you are an LGBT person, this is another fundamental truth. All serious scholars of psychiatry, psychology and biology agree that no one chooses to be born man or woman, just as nobody chooses his sexual orientation. Don't let someone make you feel guilty for what you are. It's like being left -handed or steed.

God wants you to know yourself and accept the wonderful gift you are. As Psalm 139 says: "You have been woven in your mother's womb" and you are "wonderfully done". You are a wonderful person, a unique creation. Always remember: God created you, knows you and loves you.

3. God is on your side

There is a beautiful verse in the book of Jeremiah who says:

"I know the projects I did about you, says the Lord, peace projects and not of misfortune, to give you a future full of hope" (Ger 29:11).

In other words, God has good thoughts for you, he wants your good and is by your side. Sometimes you could feel only in life, but God, who created you, also wants the best for you. and He is operating to help you realize that good. If now your life seems hard, remember that you are not removing on your own: there Is someone in your boat who row in your direction.

4. Jesus takes care of you

In the Gospels we see that during his public mission Jesus approached particularly to marginalized, ignored or refused people. He spoke with publicists, Samaritans, Roman centurions - Considered "outside" by the Society of Time. He approached the poor and the sick, he spoke to them, he listened to them, comforted and healed.

Where is Jesus find today? If you feel excluded, know that it is next to you in a special way. Jesus himself has been refused many times, so he knows what you are passing by. Remember that his love for you is unique and deep.

And remember that things can improve. One of the most important messages of life, death and resurrection of Jesus is that there is always hope, even when it seems impossible. The disciples, on Good Friday, believed that everything was over. But then, a few days later, Easter overturned every perspective. Love is stronger than hatred. Hope is stronger than despair. And suffering never has the last word.

5. The Church is your home

If you have been baptized, know that you belong to the Church as much as the Pope, your Bishop or the parish priest of your city. The day of your baptism, Jesus himself called you to be part of the Church. Do not let anyone tell you the opposite or try to deny you this sacramental grace.

For this, it is important to find a parish that is welcoming and that recognizes who you are. If you are looking for a place like this, you can consult the list of LGBT-friendly parishes offered by the New Ways Ministry.

If you do not find a Catholic community that welcomes you, look for at least a spiritual house that you remember that God loves you. But never stop looking for a Catholic parish where you can feel welcomed. And never doubt your place in the Church, even if others do not recognize it. You are baptized, and this is enough.

The Church needs you, your gifts and your experience. God created you for a reason and called you in the Church with a purpose.

I cannot answer all the questions of LGBT people who fight with faith and the Church, but I hope that these reflections help you remember something fundamental: God loves you.

Original text: “Spiritual insights for LGBT Catholics"