Open Hearts Gay and Lesbian Ministry at the Franciscan Center for Urban Ministry in Hartford is hosting a rare full-day regional conference.
Open Hearts Gay and Lesbian Ministry at the Franciscan Center for Urban Ministry in Hartford is hosting a rare full-day regional conference. On Saturday, April 10, 2010 from 9am-5pm the conference, “Welcoming Gay Catholics to the Church: Challenges and Opportunities,” focuses on the needs of gay and lesbian Catholics and their families. Church teaching calls for all Catholics to take “a welcoming stance of Christian love” and “offer…a special degree of pastoral understanding and care.”
Keynote speaker at the conference, Fr. Walter Cuenin, Catholic Chaplain at Brandeis University and former pastor in the Archdiocese of Boston, will outline the many ways that the church calls for the full inclusion of gay and lesbian persons in the life of the church, and will highlight the many ways in which the church is dealing with this sensitive issue – as well as the challenges that remain. He will share from his experience as a pastor of the ways in which gay Catholics can be supported, and how he helps young people deal with issues of sexual identity especially from his work as the Catholic chaplain at Brandeis University. There will be time for questions and discussion.
The conference day will also include a panel presentation comprised of members from regional parish ministries presently reaching out to gay and lesbian Catholics and their families. In the afternoon, registrants can attend a workshop that explores “The Spiritual and Psychological Needs of Gay and Lesbian Catholics,” or “What Scripture Says/Does Not Say About Homosexuality,” or “How to Support Catholic Families With Gay and Lesbian Members.”
Participants will have numerous opportunities for networking and group discussion. Ultimately, these connections will help those interested in making their own faith communities more welcoming and affirming for gay Catholics and their families and friends.
Those interested in attending should register by April 1st, 2010 by calling 860-756-4034 or by emailing tom@tg1021.com. There is a suggested donation of $20. Morning refreshments and lunch will be served. A liturgy at 4:00 pm will close the day. For further information and/or full bio of Fr.Walter Cuenin, please see www.spsact.org
The Franciscan Center for Urban Ministry is located at 285 Church Street in Hartford. Free parking is available in the Saints Lot located directly across the street from the Center.