Dear Your Excellencies,

I write to you as a Catholic high school theology teacher for the past 25 years and a candidate for the Doctor of Ministry degree at The Catholic University of America. The topic of focus for my dissertation is increasing pastoral care for sexual and gender minorities who seek an authentic and faithfully Catholic relationship with Jesus Christ and his Church.

It is the duty of the faithful to show obedience to our Bishops as sacred Pastors and teachers, while at the same time manifesting our views on matters which concern the good of the Church—especially on account of the common good and the dignity of individuals (CIC 212).

The January 22 statement from the USCCB on the “Executive Orders signed by the President” has done harm to persons in my circle of ministry across the United States. The official Catholic position on human sexuality and gender identity is documented widely and unequivocally. However, the posture of Church leaders in this case falls short in communicating “respect, compassion, and sensitivity” (CCC 2358). The communication of Truth demands a proper balance of honesty and discretion (CCC 2469).

The USCCB position that the presidential order on gender identity can “be seen in a more positive light” than the other orders that “harm the most vulnerable among us” is unnecessarily cruel. Yes, the “Church’s teachings remain unchanged,” but the hearts, minds, and spirits of the faithful are changed when our leaders draw circles that disacknowledge some of those who are most vulnerable. Christ warns us in the Judgment of the Nations that we shall be separated from him if we fail to meet the serious needs of the poor who are his children (Mt 25:31-46; CCC 1033).

In your vocation as shepherds of our church, I have profound empathy for the constant and overwhelming stresses that require your management. Those of us working within the Church have a responsibility to stand together with our Bishops as witnesses to our one, holy, catholic, and apostolic faith. That is why I remain committed to this dialogue in the private forum.

Jesus came so that we “might be one” (Jn 17:11), and I call upon the Collect from this Feast Day of St. Francis de Sales to guide our way forward:

O God, who for the salvation of souls willed that that the Bishop Saint Francis de Sales become all things to all, graciously grant that, following his example, we may always display the gentleness of your charity in service to our neighbor.

While I will continue advocating on behalf of our young people and their families, I pray that you too will continue listening to the Holy Spirit and the wisdom of those who work in this ministry.