NYC Church Redefines Acceptance for LGBTQ+ People

Overview

• Church: The Church of St. Francis Xavier, located in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood.
• Community: Provides a safe worship space for the LGBTQ+ community, especially Catholic Lesbians.
• Group: Catholic Lesbians group meets monthly, boasting over 300 members.

Historical Context

• Papal Endorsement: December 2023, Pope Francis allowed priests to bless same-sex couples.
• Church's History: Supported AIDS patients during the 1980s, among the first to offer burial services for AIDS victims.

Personal Stories

• Roe Sauerzopf and Paula Acuti: A couple together for 45 years and married in 2004 at the church before same-sex marriage was legal in the U.S.
  • Experience: Initially left the Catholic Church due to its stance on homosexuality but returned after finding St. Francis Xavier.
  • Contribution: Helped organize a blessing ceremony for a couple during a Catholic Lesbian retreat.

Church Leadership and Activities

• Pastor Kenneth Boller: Advocates for inclusion and acceptance within the church.
  • Emphasizes the importance of community and shared experiences.
  • Supports the LGBTQ+ friendly groups within the church.
• Catholic Lesbians Group:
  • Activities: Monthly meetings for prayer and sharing faith experiences.
  • Demographics: Members range from age 18 to 80.
  • Special Events: Participation in Pride Mass, surprise ceremonies, and retreats.

Church Policies and Advocacy

• Marriage Ceremonies: Conducts blessings and ceremonies despite legal limitations.
• Role of Women: Encourages female leadership in religious services, including delivering homilies.
• Vatican Policy: Aligns with Pope Francis' vision of inclusivity but maintains an unwavering stance on acceptance.

Community Impact

• Support and Acceptance: The church is seen as an oasis for LGBTQ+ Catholics.
• Vision: Advocates for broader acceptance and leadership roles for women within the Catholic Church.

Reflections

• Acuti and Sauerzopf's Perspective: Desire for the church's acceptance model to be widespread.

Related Topics

• LGBTQ Acceptance in Religious Institutions
• Role of Inclusive Communities in Faith-Based Organizations

Additional Resources

• ABC News article: Link to Full Article