Abomination of desolation ....

St. Francis Xavier, Manhattan.

Photo source.

What if?  What if this is the abomination of desolation in the sanctuary? [Matthew 24:14]

Crazy?  Maybe, maybe not.  The Rainbow flag is a distinct political statement, representing an ideology in opposition to Catholic Teaching.  In other dioceses and Catholic churches, those wearing Rainbow Sashes and pins can be refused Communion.  

Just a thought.

Freedom of Spirit

The Pope talked of it today at morning Mass.

He spoke about the risk: "Moving forward on this road is somewhat risky, but it is the only road to maturity, to leave behind the times in which we are not mature."

I don't pretend to know the Pope's mind, nor do I intend to 'teach' anyone or anything on this blog - I simply log my thoughts, sharing some of them here.  Don't put a lot of stock in what I say, listen to your teachers - the Church, the pope and the bishops.  I'm often wrong about things.

That said, the Pope's words today remind me of my learning to paint.  I never studied figure painting because I was afraid of temptations against chastity.  My temptations were so intense when I was younger, I thought maybe I was possessed.  Therefore, if I had taken a class and had to paint a nude, I probably would have ended up in a bathhouse on my way home from school.  So I avoided studies. 

Eventually, many of my paintings required that I paint nudes - so I depended upon good photography books - which also sometimes included erotic images - although not pornography, sexual acts, etc..  I worked through the physical responses my body made - ignoring impure movements. I adopted the habit of praying while I painted - not just while painting icons, but even while painting profane subjects.  (Profane: Nonreligious in subject matter, form, or use; secular: sacred and profane music.)  With the help of grace, I worked through my issues and objectification of the body.  I understood I could have studied at a wonderful Atelier after all! 

Without getting into detail - this is where I kind of, sort of, understand Christopher West and his version of Theology of the Body.  I said I understand something of his theory - I do not have the competence to enlarge upon that, nor am I qualified to.  Yet other bishops and priests seem to approve of West's work - so what can I say?   Except that I always recommend Fr. Richard Hogan's work.

To sum up, all I'm really saying here is that today's homily from the Holy Father made me think of that growth experience in my painting. 

Painting, risk and Matthew Shepard and...

I once did a painting around that period which I titled Matthew Shepherd.  Not a few commenters on my art blog expressed disdain for it, as well as the fact I would dare paint him with a halo.  It's unfortunate they misunderstood the image, although it demonstrates why I'm not a successful artist - if I can't convey an  simple idea understandably - I'm not very good.

 I originally intended the figure to be another St. Sebastian.  While painting the piece - which in fact is more or less simply a study, I received news of an art show.  The curator of the gallery knew of my work and asked me to show what I had in a group show, which also happened to be the inaugural show of his new gallery.  I abandoned work on Sebastian, and decided to call the unfinished piece Matthew Shepherd - because he was in the news at the time and the figure's face and hair reminded me of the man - and the figure in its unfinished state, appeared a little 'scorched'.  I left the halo to suggest the goodness of all men, made in the image and likeness of God - I was not 'canonizing' the poor man. 

I wanted the figure to be viewed as a human being, tied to a fence, left by the roadside, beaten, stripped by robbers - hoping the viewer might recall the parable of the Good Samaritan.  In one sense, the politicization of the murder of Matthew Shepherd caused many passers by to look the other way, some even condemning the victim.  No one stopped to help him, to nurse him, to save him - rather they exploited him for their own agendas - and continue to do so today.  Hence the painting isn't really of Matthew at all, but a roadside casualty of violence: a victim of robbery and exploitation; and worse, in death, a victim of political agenda, as well as fear and anger - culminating in hate.

Obviously, this post took a different turn from what I intended. 

A friend has been posting on the recent violence against gay men in NYC.  I'm not aware that violence is spreading against gays around the country - in fact I assumed it was no longer much of an issue, but evidently in NY there has been an increase of attacks and beatings.  In the past week 3 gay men have been attacked, I think a couple of weeks ago, a couple of others were attacked as well.  Stories here and here.

Is it significant?  It is Gay Pride Month after all - even the gay publications point that out, warning gay people to be aware of those who really do hate gay people, may be out to bash - despite the fact that they can be prosecuted for a hate crime.

My friend, whom I respect, asked why Cardinal Dolan hasn't spoken out.   

The question wouldn't have occurred to me.  In Manhattan I think there are many beatings of a whole range of individuals every week.  I don't know the crime statistics - but I'm sure they are rather high.  I'm not excusing it - I'm just saying.  For instance, a couple of weeks ago in Minneapolis, 2 male joggers were attacked and beaten by 6 Somali men.  The men weren't gay - they were white.  Archbishop Nienstedt never mentioned it.  I'm not sure it is the local ordinary's job to speak out every time there is a possible hate crime, although in NYC, law enforcement and the Mayor have done so in the cases involving gay men.  Perhaps the Cardinal will say something eventually.  I totally understand my friend's frustration however - I feel badly that men are attacked by other men out of hatred for who or what they are.  It is occurring by the thousands to Christians throughout the world.

As for gay bashing - the Church really does condemn it already.

I often refer to the CDF Letter to Bishops on the subject.  It strikes me as an interesting combination of condemnation, as well as what I would term 'prophecy'.

10. It is deplorable that homosexual persons have been and are the object of violent malice in speech or in action. Such treatment deserves condemnation from the Church's pastors wherever it occurs. It reveals a kind of disregard for others which endangers the most fundamental principles of a healthy society. The intrinsic dignity of each person must always be respected in word, in action and in law. 

But the proper reaction to crimes committed against homosexual persons should not be to claim that the homosexual condition is not disordered. When such a claim is made and when homosexual activity is consequently condoned, or when civil legislation is introduced to protect behavior to which no one has any conceivable right, neither the Church nor society at large should be surprised when other distorted notions and practices gain ground, and irrational and violent reactions increase. - CDF Letter

The Church absolutely condemns irrational and violent reactions against homosexual persons.

7. “It is deplorable that homosexual persons have been and are the object of violent malice in speech or in action. Such treatment deserves condemnation from the Church's pastors wherever it occurs. It reveals a kind of disregard for others which endangers the most fundamental principles of a healthy society. The intrinsic dignity of each person must always be respected in word, in action and in law. 

But the proper reaction to crimes committed against homosexual persons should not be to claim that the homosexual condition is not disordered. When such a claim is made and when homosexual activity is consequently condoned, or when civil legislation is introduced to protect behavior to which no one has any conceivable right, neither the Church nor society at large should be surprised when other distorted notions and practices gain ground, and irrational and violent reactions increase”   - CDF Considerations

Pray for God's peace, for God's way of holiness, to seek first His kingdom.  Love one another, do good to one another.

"The law of the Spirit makes us free! This freedom frightens us a little, because we are afraid we will confuse the freedom of the Spirit with human freedom. " - Pope Francis, Homily, 6/12/13

My apologies to my friend Thom if this seems less than supportive, it isn't intended to be.

If I offend any of the readers, please accept my apologies and pray for me.

My kid is not disordered.

My kid is not evil.

Many people, parents and loved ones of same sex attracted persons mistake Catholic Church teaching to be saying that the homosexual person is disordered, that homosexuals or gay people are evil.  That isn't true of course, although it can seem at times that religious persons within the Church hate the person as well as the sin.  That really just demonstrates that even faithful Catholics can be misled as well.  Which is why one must always return to the sources of Catholic teaching, clearly defined by the Magisterium.

Lately I have been reading of growing support for gay marriage, even from morally conservative voters.  The main reason being put forward is that more and more parents, brothers and sisters, and others are realizing that one of their loved ones is gay - or same sex attracted.  Hence the responses: "My son is not disordered."  "My Daughter is not evil."  "I want them to be happy and to be able to love whomever they choose." 


The problem for Catholics, as I see it, is the lack of clear, consistent teaching on the issue of homosexuality.  To be sure, the teaching is there and it is spelled out in no uncertain terms.  There are documents to prove it.  Nevertheless, in practical terms there is a lot of leeway given when it comes to 'pastoral care'.

For instance, homosexual acts are sinful, but the orientation itself - though disordered (disorders are normal for fallen man) is not sinful.  "Although the particular inclination of the homosexual person is not a sin, it is a more or less strong tendency toward an intrinsic moral evil; and thus the inclination itself must be seen as an objective disorder." CDF Letter, no.3

Yet ambiguities continue to abound.  Most recently the Cardinals Of Belgium claiming Church teaching has evolved.  Even Cardinal George has made strange statements.

George said although church teaching does not judge same-sex relationships as morally acceptable, it does encourage the faithful to "respect everyone." 

"The question is, 'Does respect mean that we have to change our teaching?' That's an ongoing discussion, of course. … I still go back to the fact that these are people we know and love and are part of our families. That's the most important point right now." - Cardinal George apology.

With all due respect to Cardinal George, Catholic teaching cannot change - and it is clearly a very important point right now. 

Courage and Cardinal Burke.

Recently I came across an introduction Cardinal Burke wrote to a book by Fr. Harvey, which addressed the difficulty Catholic parents face in accepting and supporting their children who happen to have SSA.  The Cardinal is so humble and charitable in his approach, I will let his introduction speak for itself. 

Some time ago, at the conclusion of a reception following the conferral of the sacrament of Confirmation, a mother approached me and asked whether she could speak with me. She began by saying that, while she did not want to offend me, she disagreed with a column I had written in the archdiocesan newspaper. The column was written at the time that the citizens of Missouri were preparing to vote on a referendum to amend the state constitution to define marriage as the union of one man and one woman – that is, to ban what has become popularly known as "same-sex marriage" or "gay marriage".

This well-spoken mother told me that she was offended because my article implied that her daughter was evil. She went on to explain that her daughter, who is in her early twenties, had graduated from a private Catholic high school with highest honors and with many awards. She has been active in a same-sex relationship for some time. With great emotion, the mother declared her love for her daughter, which, according to her way of thinking, requires acceptance and support of her daughter's same-sex relationship, including welcoming her daughter and her same-sex partner into the family home.

I explained to the mother that I have never thought nor written that persons suffering from same-sex attraction are evil. I went on to summarize what I had written in the column to which she referred, namely, that same-sex attraction itself is disordered – that is, contrary to God's plan for us as male and female; that homosexual acts are intrinsically evil; and that persons with same-sex attraction are our brothers and sisters, whom we are to respect and love. The mother continued to insist that she loves her daughter and, therefore, will support her in her same-sex relationship. 

The conversation in question reminded me of several pastoral situations in which I have found a parent struggling painfully with the homosexual activity of a child. The emotion of the situation can understandably cloud one's judgment. Whereas in the past, such emotion may have led parents to reject a child suffering with the homosexual condition or to pretend that the condition did not exist, today there is a tendency for parents to believe that tolerance requires them to accept the homosexual activity of their child and even permit it in the family home.

 Given the strong public rhetoric favoring the acceptance of same-sex attraction and homosexual activity as an alternative form of human sexuality, the very presentation of the Catholic Church's perennial teaching on the matter is considered, at best, failing in pastoral sensitivity; at worst, hateful toward persons who struggle with same-sex attraction. The theological truth is seen to be somehow antithetical to the pastoral or loving response required. For that reason, Catholic faithful, including the clergy, can become hesitant to present and clearly uphold the Church's teaching on homosexual inclinations and activity. At the same time, the persistent public message about homosexuality – in the absence of a consistent presentation of the Church's teaching – can easily lead the Catholic faithful into confused and even erroneous thinking on the matter. - Finish reading here. 

Ed. Note: It is 'Gay Pride Month' so I may be posting on authentic Catholic teaching on homosexuality a bit more than usual.  What? 

 

 

Cardinal Godfried Danneels said the Church had evolved in its understanding of homosexuals. How's that?

So how has the Church evolved in its thinking?  Its understanding of homosexuals?  What exactly is the new thinking on this subject?  How will the Church do better in the way it treats gay people?

Ask Eve Tushnet maybe? 

Cardinal Dolan?

Ask me and I will tell you that the teaching cannot change.  Homosexual acts are sinful.  Same sex marriage is not possible.  I've posted this stuff over and over ever since I began blogging.  Likewise, common sense and experience should prove without a doubt civil unions will lead to recognition of gay marriage - because civil unions are not good enough - they are not equal.

That said, why do some people reject the term gay and/or gay identity?

Once again, I will repeat myself.  When a person uses that term, he reduces his identity to a sexual preference/orientation.  An orientation which is objectively disordered - not a sin - but objectively disordered.  Hence, the implication being the condition is unchangeable and a natural variant of human sexuality. 

I want to share something from the foreword to Fr. Harvey's study, The Truth About Homosexuality - a book the Belgian Cardinals should have read.  I'm not a member of Courage but I agree very much with the aims of the apostolate.  I also very much admire the work, spiritual direction and the writings of the late Fr. John Harvey.  His writings almost always have resonated with my own interior convictions and experience.  His references to those experts he has collaborated with in his own writings, also have been useful to me in my personal journey and understanding the condition of homosexuality.

From Fr. Harvey:

It is noteworthy that the Society of Catholic Social Scientists sent a letter to the American bishops on November 28 1994, in which they expressed their concern 'with a trend in U.S. ministries which flatly contradicts Catholic doctrine on homosexuality'.  They outline ambiguities and contradictions, using scientific research in order to show the erroneous assumptions upon which these statements and activities are founded.  They list five fallacies:

1. False statements are being made about homosexuality being biologically determined.
2. Catholic homosexuals are being told that change in sexual orientation is never possible.
3. The term gay is being used to describe people of a homosexual orientation who do not identify with the gay socio-political position.
4. A separate 'gay spirituality' is being encouraged, and gay ministries tell us that a person who suffers from homosexual disorder has special 'gay gifts' for the Church
5. Catholics are being informed that the homosexual condition is not disordered." - The Truth About Homosexuality: The Cry of the Faithful Seeking the Truth

Read Tushnet, Selmys, Gonnerman and others to see how commonplace this thinking has become, even endorsed by a growing number of bishops.

On the pastoral care of homosexual persons.

Almost always overlooked, deliberately ignored, or in some cases, considered to be irrelevant, I would direct the reader to study the CDF's Letter to Bishops on the Pastoral Care of Homosexual Persons which clearly affirms Catholic teaching: "The human person, made in the image and likeness of God, can hardly be adequately described by a reductionist reference to his or her sexual orientation."

There is an effort in some countries to manipulate the Church by gaining the often well-intentioned support of her pastors with a view to changing civil-statutes and laws. This is done in order to conform to these pressure groups' concept that homosexuality is at least a completely harmless, if not an entirely good, thing. Even when the practice of homosexuality may seriously threaten the lives and well-being of a large number of people, its advocates remain undeterred and refuse to consider the magnitude of the risks involved. 

The Church can never be so callous. It is true that her clear position cannot be revised by pressure from civil legislation or the trend of the moment. But she is really concerned about the many who are not represented by the pro-homosexual movement and about those who may have been tempted to believe its deceitful propaganda. She is also aware that the view that homosexual activity is equivalent to, or as acceptable as, the sexual expression of conjugal love has a direct impact on society's understanding of the nature and rights of the family and puts them in jeopardy. - CDF Letter to Bishops

 

Uganda Martyrs - reprised.

Saint Charles Lwangda and Companions
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I always find it ironic that the feast day of a group of martyrs who were put to death for refusing King Mwanga of Uganda homosexual advances is celebrated during what has come to be known as Gay Pride Month.  Though many Christians were killed by Mwanga, a group of pages were sentenced to death not only out of hatred for the faith but for resisting homosexual relations with the King.  Homosexuality is a cultural taboo in Uganda to this day, although it is believed the king learned and acquired the practice from the Arabs. (Source)  Since certain cultural taboo were more or less ratified by Christianity, while other practices such as polygamy were condemned, Mwanga sought to rid the country of the new religion and all Christians.
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The story of the martyrs is at once gruesome and edifying.  Imagine accepting torture and death rather than committing a sexual sin which has become so commonplace in our day?  The sacrifice of the martyrs demonstrates that conquering sin is indeed possible for anyone, and their witness offers the Christian great hope, reminding us how they "endured the opposition of sinners", thus encouraging us, "do not grow despondent or abandon the struggle."  Their intercession is powerful before God, for their blood cries out on our behalf, encouraging us...  "In your fight against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood." - Hebrews 12: 3-4
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St. Charles and Companions pray us.   

Getting towards the end of the month...

And the end of the Pride posts.
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Seriously - the Gay Pride issue can be a creepy subject.  If any political movement - outside of the pro-choice/abortion/euthanasia movement - has a dark underbelly - this political movement definitely does.  My intention is not to insult gay rights advocates or gay friends with that statement either - it's my personal experience.  Yet there are reasons to be vigilant - just believe me when I tell you that.  One of the key indicators that it is not of God - aside from the fact the lifestyle promoted is opposed to the Commandments as well as natural law and therefore in a state of rebellion, is the confusion and chaos the subject engenders, not to mention the hostility and violence which accompanies it.
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I appreciate what Thomas Peters of American Papist (CatholicVoteAction.org) had to say explaining why he posts on the subject, I certainly share his motivation:

...[P]art of my motivation in talking about this subject is my sincere belief that there are many individuals with homosexual inclinations that do not wish to act out on these inclinations, that wish to live chastely (as all non-married – and married! – persons are called to live) and who, sadly, are given no support for their lifestyle choice because of the overwhelming pressures given to affirming homosexuality in our culture today. - Homosexuality In the Light of Faith

After clearing that up, I think there are sections of St. Paul's Letter to the Romans, beyond the classic condemnation of homosexuality, which can be accommodated to defend the so-called ex-gay phenomenon which active homosexuals so vehemently condemn.
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The call to chastity.
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First of all. I think everyone needs to understand and keep in mind that the Church is not asking homosexual men and women to change their sexual orientation, but to live chastely and celibate - it is the same requirement the Church and the Commandments obliges all unmarried persons to observe.  For some people the very thought of changing one's sexual orientation is unthinkable and would deter them from even attempting to reconcile with the Church.  For others, same sex attraction is completely abhorrent and unwanted and they would do anything to be rid of it, given the means and resources.  Again, Peters refers to an excellent source on the topic which helps to understand and respect their attitude.
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“To men and women tormented by homosexual emotions who do not want to live as homosexuals, who want constructive help and support, and who are forgotten, have no voice, and get no answers in our society, which recognizes only the emancipatory homosexual who wants to impose his ideology of ‘normality’ and ‘unchangeability and thus discriminates against those who know or feel that that is a sad lie.”  - Dr. Gerard J.M. van den Aardweg, The Battle for Normality

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Not everyone is convinced of this however, therefore the Church, reluctant to "bind up heavy burdens too heavy to carry" [Mt 23:4] simply asks persons with homosexual inclination to live chastely and celibate.  No sex, no gay marriage, no porn, no auto-eroticism, no cruising, and so on.  Gay lifestyle stuff - however, that does not mean a man with homosexual inclination must trash his friends and relatives who are gay, or quit his nursing job, or stop going to Broadway shows and hi-lighting their hair... No, no, no - gay lifestyle refers to the practice of homosexuality.  Two or more men can live together - just like anyone else - to "help carry one another's burdens" as the Apostle commands.
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"God has various ways to draw us to himself." - Br. Lawrence
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However, these days Courage Apostolate is often criticized, if not condemned because their website links to organizations such as NARTH, or recommends self-help books such as van der Aardweg's, The Battle for Normality.  Why?  Because the research and science behind these organizations and literature is sound.  Gay activists fight against the findings of course, and claim real science refutes their data.  Who is lying?  Perhaps neither side is, however, men and women who have left the gay lifestyle have been helped immensely by the work Courage, NARTH, and other resources.  It works for them.  Many have found insight into the origins, the why and wherefore of their same-sex attraction - for themselves - not all claim cures or consider themselves ex-gay - but they do acknowledge that they have moved on from the compulsion to act out and even the desire to act out homosexually.
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If someone wants to call themselves ex-gay, let them.  I think another reason out and about gay people hate that term is because they feel threatened by it.  They fear a return to the days when homosexuality was illegal or considered a mental illness to be cured of, therefore they seek to squash any notion of change.  (And yet straight people are permitted to suddenly change and be gay.)  However, in their fight for gay rights, many activists are working to establish a sort of moral dictatorship which rejects everything opposed to their 'agenda', hence the term homosexualist is sometimes applied to these activists - just as some radical feminists are referred to as femininazis.  These are labels which permit outsiders a better understanding of their political goals.  Their tactics are at times similar to totalitarian regimes of the 20th century, and they employ many of the same methods of intimidation and fear.  Consider the backlash against opponents to Prop 8 in California.
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Just hate the sin - not the sinner.
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More recently and locally, this form of intimidation took the form of outing a vociferous critic of homosexuality, a Lutheran pastor who happened to be a member of Courage - seeking support to live chastely and celibate in accord with his Christian calling.  As I noted elsewhere, he was outed by a local gay magazine.  The magazine claimed the man was a hypocrite and because he condemned homosexuality from his radio show pulpit, he deserved to be outed.  In effect, what they did was retaliation and intimidation.  Very Nazi-like tactics.
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That said, although I never heard of the minister nor his radio show before the story hit the news, I understand he came off pretty strong against gay people on the air.  If that is true, I have to wonder if he may not have benefited from St. Paul's continuing exhortation to the Romans, which seems to fit anyone who leaves behind a sinful lifestyle...
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"That is why every one of you who judges another is inexcusable.  By your judgment you convict yourself, since you do the very same things.  'We know that God's judgment on men who do such things is just.'  Do you suppose then that you will escape his judgment, you who condemn these things in others yet do them yourself?'" - Romans 2: 1-3

Closet case...

Outing.
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So yesterday I posted about an 'outing' of an area Courage chapter by John Townsend in a local fag-rag, Lavender - it's a magazine devoted to GLBT news, gossip, and ads.  My Dr.'s office always has a stack of current issues scattered about, but since I haven't been there for a year, I haven't seen a copy until yesterday.  After a friend sent me a link to their website, I was able to read their coverage of the Roman Catholic support group Courage, as well as an outing of a local Lutheran minister - who attended Courage meetings in his efforts to walk the straight and narrow. 
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Expose.
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There are lots of misunderstandings about Courage Apostolate, and naturally so.  It's a bit counter-cultural.  The meetings are conducted privately - some say secretly - but that's only to protect the identity of persons not willing to go public about such personal matters of conscience.  Such people are often mocked as closeted by gay activists who really ought to be more sympathetic to their struggle, yet are not.  Aside from preserving anonymity, another reason for a certain level of 'security' is to protect members from protesters who would otherwise disrupt regular meetings, annual conferences, and 'out' participants.  Unfortunately, Lavender did not respect these boundaries when it published the expose which did exactly that.
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Transparent closet.
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No matter how 'out of the closet' gay folk think they are - they remain bound by the same dynamic they always had been - they are 'gay'.  They still self-segregate.  In reducing their identity to a sexual tendency; their sexual attraction has become the defining aspect of their existence, which ultimately restricts, confines and limits one's freedom of spirit.  In a sense, their 'closet' remains, so long as they define themselves as 'gay' - 'coming out' simply made the closet walls more transparent.  Nevertheless they will always be 'other', regardless how many legal rights are granted them in the short term.  In our day and age, legal rights are no longer a guarantee.

I should post something for today...

But I don't feel like doing a big post...

Today's Father's Day of course - so happy Father's day to my readers who are dads.  Especially Catholic dads who are neither alcoholics, drug addicts, wife beaters or child abusers, thieves, adulterers or other creepy things that have their effect on their children whether they are willing to admit it or not.  So happy Father's day to you good guys.
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Hey - I just got an email from a Muslim, Rahabbi-watzupawitu Muhhumiditi or something - it was labeled: "Please open the attachment!"  How dumb are these people?
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Alrighty then...
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So anyway - there was a post yesterday on a gay blog about a guy who infiltrated a local Courage meeting.  I know!  The guy was actively gay of course, and he pretended to be a Catholic hoping to walk the straight and narrow.  Instead he wrote an expose unbeknownst to the Courage members.  (Remember when I told you someone wanted me to infiltrate a group not too long ago?  Read the spy's article and you will see why it is not a good idea nor very Christian to do such things?!  I know!)  You can read the post here:  Notes From the "Laughable but Tragic" World of Courage.  I wasn't going to blog about it, but I thought I should publicize my comment to the post, since here I can correct spelling and stuff.  (I don't know how to do that when I place comments on other blogs.)
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Terry Nelson said...  (I indicate additions with italics and parenthesis.)

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Michael, the article could be laughable if the subject matter were not so tragic. I often recommend Courage to those folks reading my blog who may be seeking to live a chaste and celibate lifestyle in accord with Catholic Church teaching. The fraternal support is often necessary for those men who struggle to live according to the teaching of the Church.
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I only know one member of Courage really well - a man who reads my blog. However, I do know Fr. John Harvey as well as Fr. Benedict Groeschl - both instrumental in founding the apostolate. These men and their writings are very sound and instructive.  (I should add, based upon solid research and years of ministry.)  I also know two of the priests mentioned in the article, although I doubt they know or remember me. Both priests are also very sound, good Catholic priests - both very down to earth and deeply spiritual and compassionate men.  (With many years of pastoral ministry, as well as a good grasp of mystical theology - something essential when dealing with such matters.)
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The tragedy in this article is how the participants involved in the support group have been presented. I've never been to a support group but from what I've seen in documentaries and heard from those who have, there is a candor amongst participants due to the private nature of the meeting, a vulnerability expressed while speaking of their interior struggles which might otherwise sound laughable in other circumstances, or to an outsider who is convinced their struggle is unwarranted in the first place. In fact such comic scenarios - taken out of context - work very well in sit-coms and stand-up. Nevertheless, such conversation and self revelatory dialogue must be assessed in the privacy of the setting.
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Additionally, people should understand there are many stages penitents go through in transitioning from any unwanted lifestyle or habit, especially from gay culture into faithful Roman Catholic culture. It takes great courage and the gift of fortitude to do such a thing, and is the stuff that saints are made of.
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Conversion is an ongoing process and there are differing expressions or safeguards individuals employ. There are differing degrees of ascesis, as well as degrees of delicacy of conscience for each individual. Crazy as it sounds, maybe some guy really did have to throw out his computer or another fellow really had to stop going to the gym for awhile. There is something in the Gospel about that you know - "cut off your right hand..." No one is permitted to do that of course - but throwing out a computer isn't so radical a concept when compared to cutting off something else. Most likely the guy who did throw it out will eventually get a new one anyway - only to face the same issues until he learns how to deal with them appropriately. Maturity also takes a long time for many people.  (I have posted about a saint who in her penitence made a huge bonfire of her clothes and jewels - a dramatic gesture not without comedic potential.  Looking back upon my own conversion I too had moments of drama.)
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Generally speaking, the article picks up on the foibles of the Courage movement very well.  (It is easy to pull conversation and stories out of context in order to sound strange or bizarre.)  Yet the author was successful in representing the participants as repressive and and their means to combat these issues just plain dumb. (He mocked the priests and their celibacy as symptomatic of arrested development.)  I think if he studies the situation and concept of chaste celibacy more closely he would realize that it is the active homosexual who is more a victim of arrested development than a celibate priest - but that is a difficult reality for gay men to accept.
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That said, if anyone is genuinely interested in the Courage Apostolate they should read the books by Harvey and Groeschl - as well as the Courage handbook - they would then be able to discern that the apostolate isn't a crazy idea at all. Nevertheless, Courage isn't a fix-all either. Which may be why some people who tried it and failed denigrate it so. It's a support group, providing an outline, or guide to living chastely amidst a culture hostile to chastity and purity and fidelity to Church teaching.
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Anyway, despite such articles - I'm convinced most Courage members, as all Christians today, are prepared to be ridiculed for their faith.  The very fact that Courage receives such hostile criticism and ridicule indicates it is definitely the work of the Holy Spirit. - End of comment.

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One thing Catholics struggling with SSA - which can sometimes be like SA (sexual addiction) - is that a person is not obliged to join Courage - though it seems to me to be a very good help - it is a choice.  A man or woman can find equal support from fellow Catholics - if their new found friends aren't too freaked out about that SSA thing.  Sometimes 'lovers' decide to reform their lives together and live according to Church teaching - in a sense they have their own little Courage group.  But just as for an alcoholic - AA isn't always a requirement - though a lot of alchies will say that's heresy.  We all have free will - with prayer and proper direction, you 'can leap over any wall' as the Psalmist says.  And don't forget - saints are sinners who keep trying.  Remember the scene from What's Up Doc?  (This link is not that scene however.)  It shows an old lady trying to get to her hotel room despite a guy in the hall who kept tripping her?  She kept getting up determined to get to her room - that's how it is sometimes - we may fall at every step, but keep getting up - seen from a distance (after we get through it) or by an outsider, it's even kind of funny.  The one who perseveres however, has the last laugh.
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Something very queer is going on.  (That should be the title of my next post on the subject.)

"Have a carnal love for Christ."

The Sacred Heart of Jesus.

A novice master* once recommended that I have a carnal love for Christ - he said he was quoting St. Bernard of Clairvaux  I believe he was referencing Bernard's Treatise On the Love of God or his Commentary on the Song of Songs.  I think Father took the quote out of context, since Bernard discusses carnal love in a much different manner than what the monk was communicating to me.  I think I realized then, as I understand better today, that his idea of a carnal love would fit rather well with some of Chris West's confusing views on Theology of the Body.  One needs to be cautious when it comes to spiritual lust and spiritual directors who interpret mystical doctrines in a far too sensual manner.  In making use of the imagery contained within the Songs, Bernard always stressed the experiences were totally spiritual and produced by grace.  Referring to mystical union, the Saint writes: "Be careful to think of nothing corporal or sensible in this union of the Word with the soul. Let us call to mind here what the Apostle says: `He who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with him' (I Cor. 6:17).
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One can witness the sensualization or sexualization, if you will, of the mystical experiences of St. Bernard in the manner by which they are sometimes depicted in art.  The images themselves are edifying and evocative of deep spirituality, ideally moving the soul to devotion, yet to the more sensual person, infected by contemporary culture's obsession with sexuality, or his own passions, the sacred images can be misinterpreted or misreprepresented.  I dare say, often appealing - consciously or unconsciously - to a 'gay spirituality' of sorts.  This may sound prudish, but I think I speak from experience.  Sadly, that is one reason why Bernard is sometimes referred to as a 'gay saint'.  (Aelred and John of the Cross have been likewise misunderstood, and misrepresented.)
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However, devotion to the sacred Humanity of Christ is indispensable for the Christian, as all of the saints attest - perhaps none more than Teresa of Avila, who certainly understood the mysticism of St. Bernard.  The Sacred Humanity was Teresa's 'constant companion'.  Indeed, devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is the perfect devotion which encompasses a chaste 'carnal love' leading to the highest mystical love.  I mention this because not a few men with homosexual attraction long for an intimacy with Christ that can be corrupted by modern 'homsexualist' spiritual directors, who tend to emphasize sensuality in direct opposition to authentic spirituality.
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To avoid these errors, I believe devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is the proper antidote, as well as the source of healing for disordered passions, affections and especially movements to lust.  The Heart of Jesus attracts all the affections of our soul and purifies them in the burning furnace of charity that is His Heart.
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Divine Love, A Gift of the Heart of Jesus.
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The infusion of this divine charity also has its origin in the Heart of the Savior, 'in which are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.'  For this charity is the gift of Jesus Christ and of His spirit; for he is indeed the spirit of the Father and the Son from whom the origin of the Church and its marvelous extension is revealed to all the pagan races which have been defiled by idolatry, family hatred, corrupt morals, and violence.
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Divine Love, the Source of All Graces.
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This divine charity is the most precious gift of the Heart of Christ and of His Spirit:  It is this which imparted to the Apostles and martyrs that fortitude, by the strength of which they fought their battles like heroes till death in order to preach the truth of the Gospel and bear witness to it by the shedding of their blood.  [...]  This finally, moved the virgins to a free and joyful withdrawal from the pleasures of the senses and to the complete dedication of themselves to the love of their heavenly Spouse." - Pius XII: Haurietis Aquas 

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(And I'll share with you a secret to insure your personal, intimate devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is pure and chaste and true.  Go to him through the Immaculate Heart of Mary...  He will perhaps lead you there anyway.  "I will lead you, bring you in to the home of my mother." Songs 8  There he will teach you true and pure and chaste love... and heal you.)
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*Note:  Strangely enough, that particular novice master discouraged devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Pier Vittorio Tondelli

 President Obama Designates June as GLBT Pride Month

Always the patriot, and out of respect for President Obama I hope to honor his designation of June as Gay Pride month by posting about good Catholics who left behind the homosexual lifestyle for the sake of the Gospel, heeding Christ's call to "reform your lives, the kingdom of God is at hand!"  Motivated by divine love, these men obeyed the call to "'Come out from among them and separate yourselves from them'... 'I will welcome you and be a father to you and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty". - 2 Cor 6: 17-18. Of course that is not an easy thing to do and requires great grace - but there are holy men and women who have come through the struggle and who are intercessors and models, thus, "since we have these promises, beloved, let us purify ourselves from every defilement of flesh and spirit, and in fear of God strive to fulfill our consecration perfectly." - 2 Cor 7:1



Pier Vittorio redux....
The controversial Italian homosexual writer, who died in 1991 due to complications of AIDS, had been reconciled with the Church before he finally succumbed to the disease. He died a Catholic. I mention Tondelli today, as a sort of patron saint for those who struggle with the issues of homosexuality and Catholic teaching.

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“Tondelli was fascinated with the works of Jewish mysticism, the Imitation of Christ, and the mystics like St. Teresa of Avila. “I love to look through them, to find and read stories, and the idea of holiness,” he wrote.

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In 1989, the Italian writer said, “Everyone that has been raised in the bosom of a religion has his own religiosity. I have always tried to seek out not so much a discussion about the Catholic faith, but rather to express my own religiosity—without a doubt in the bosom of Christianity—which seeks out or questions its own positions, especially in confrontation with other authors.”
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Speaking about chastity after his conversion, Tondelli called it “a mystic virtue for those who have chosen it and perhaps the most superhuman use of sexuality.”” - Catholic News Agency

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My reflections…

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I love Tondelli's statement regarding chastity…”a mystic virtue…the most superhuman use of sexuality.”

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This scripture come to mind: “When he found one really valuable pearl, he went back and put up for sale all that he had and bought it.” - Matthew 13:46

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And this: “I assure you that tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you.” - Matthew 21:31

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I also find it interesting Pier Vittorio enjoyed reading the mystics before his conversion. Many saints read the lives and writings of the saints before their own conversions, - two that come to mind immediately, Ignatius of Loyola and Edith Stein - what they read led them to the truth.

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(Originally published on Abbey-Roads 2.)