Love Your Neighbors and Pray For Those Who Persecute You
It is impossible to paint the gay and lesbian community with one broad, brush stroke. There is great diversity and many differences.
One very tiny group, which has been in the news lately may seem to be mocking Christianity and labeled by some as a hate group and anti-Catholic. They may evoke dismay or anger for those who love our Catholic faith. But remember the words of Jesus in Matthew’s gospel: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you.’” (Matthew 5:44). In the same section of the Gospel, Jesus warns against anger. But I say to you,
“Whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment.” (Matthew 5: 22). This is a challenging command from the Lord, especially when it seems someone is attacking what we hold dear. But if we respond only in anger, we may be abandoning the very faith we hold dear.
Nowadays, most people know someone who identifies as part of the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning)+ community. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us how we should treat them. “They must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity” (#2358). That is the official teaching of the Church. We may not agree with some of their choices or lifestyle, but it does not lessen the respect, compassion, and sensitivity deserved by every child of God and every human being.