The book “Building a Bridge: How the Catholic Church and the LGBT Community Can Enter into a Relationship of Respect, Compassion, and Sensitivity” by Fr. James Martin SJ served as a base for yesterday’s discussion.
Because we didn’t have the actual book available we used other resources to know more about the relationship of the Catholic Church and the LGBT* community and how to improve it, such as videos by Fr. James, interviews, and part of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Even though we were a small group, there was a lively discussion. We shared our various personal views and backgrounds of religion and for example asked ourselves why there is sometimes a selectiveness when it comes to taking the bible literally. Or as in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah, why in some bible passages where homosexuality is mentioned, it is often seen out of the context and therefore portrayed as disapproved by the bible.
A recurring theme in our discussion was Jesus’ message to love your neighbor like yourself. We found out, that this message can help LGBT* Catholics (and other Christians) to accept themselves and also their sexuality better. We also had brief talks about a similar principle in e.g. Islam. In general, another topic was how different religions or confessions appear differently in other countries, and how they handle the topic of LGBT* people in their communities.
Thanks to everyone for showing up, we hope to see you again soon!
If you’re interested in coming to the next meeting or want to propose a book to talk about you can find all information you can find more information on Facebook in the group “Book Club @ LGL”, or you can send an e-mail directly to josefinschaefer@web.de.
Book Club is about meeting up in a comfortable atmosphere and spending some time with nice company, a cup of tea, some snacks, and discussing a book together.
LGL is carrying out the 10-month project “Disappearing Borders: Empowering LGBT Community and Allies In Lithuania” under the Erasmus+ program EVS (European Voluntary Service).
