MSJC's LGBTQ+ Initiative frequently plans and hosts a weekend retreat for LGBTQ+ persons, their families, and allies. The retreat is filled with opportunities for spiritual renewal, teachings of the faith, and time for building community, faith sharing, and fellowship--all with the LGBTQ+ person in mind. See the chart below for information on our past retreats and save the date for our upcoming retreat in Chicago over the weekend of June 6-8, 2025!
In June 2024, MSJC's LGBTQ+ Initiative hosted Imago Dei: Embracing the Dignity of LGBTQ+ Persons, an assembly for the Catholic LGBTQ+ community. Imago Dei honored the 50th anniversary of a 1974 groundbreaking conference centered on LGBTQ inclusion and ministry which was also held in Dayton at the Bergamo Center. Over 140 participants joined us for the Imago Dei weekend of reflection, prayer, and community-building. You can find more details about Imago Dei, our published impact report, and some reflections on the event at the link below.
Young people today are growing up in a complicated world that presents a constant tug of war between Gospel values and cultural pressures. This is especially true for LGBTQ+ youth, many of whom feel isolated and excluded because they are seen as “different”. This booklet offers a Catholic and Marianist perspective and rationale for assisting LGBTQ+ youth as they come to understand their identity. It outlines strategies for assuring that our institutions and ministries promote understanding, respect, and acceptance for all young people.
We hope, through the projects above and resources below, you’ll gain valuable insights and find support regarding coming out, the role of faith and conscience, how to love LGBTQ+ children/family/friends, and ideas for making our world more accepting of LGBTQ+ persons.