Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://questlgbti.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [News](https://questlgbti.uk/blog/) - [Quest Pilgrims in Rome](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-in-rome/) - Quest members joined over 1200 other LGBTQ Catholics, their families and friend in Rome over the 5th and 6th September for a very special pilgrimage as part of the year of Jubilee - Pilgrims of Hope. It was organised by the Italian LGBTQ Catholic group La Tenda di Gionata, in partnership with the Global Network - [Support and Connection for LGBT+ Catholics in Scotland](https://questlgbti.uk/support-and-connection-for-lgbt-catholics-in-scotland/) - A member-led charity for LGBT+ Catholics founded in 1973, Quest supports the integration of faith with sexual orientation and gender identity. Many members are openly LGBT+ and active in parish life. We foster spiritual growth through a network of regional groups. In response to growing interest in Scotland, we are hosting two gatherings: one in - [On the Death of Pope Francis](https://questlgbti.uk/pope-francis-rip/) - All of us in Quest were following with concern the health struggles that Pope Francis endured in recent weeks but, like many others around the world, the news of his death on Monday was felt with shock and heartbreak. His determination to be with the faithful in St Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday raised hopes - [Quest South East Crewe Oblates retreat](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-south-east-crewe-oblates-retreat/) - Quest South East are organising a retreat this September at Wistaston Hall in Crewe, home of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate. It will take place on the weekend of 19-21 September 2025. More information will follow in the coming weeks. If you would like to book, please follow this link. Although we expect most of - [Dignitas Infinita](https://questlgbti.uk/dignitas-infinita-2/) - George White on "Dignitas Infinita" "The Church should enter into dialogue with trans people" comments RE teacher and previous Quest trustee George White who has released a personal response to the Vatican document "Dignitas Infinita" which was published by the Vatican on April 8th. You can read George's full response on his website here. - [Wonderfully Made LGBTQ+R(eligion) - UK Debut Screening](https://questlgbti.uk/wonderfully-made/) - Wonderfully Made LGBTQ+R(eligion) Seeking change through the power of art. “Wonderfully Made — LGBTQ+R(eligion)” is a combined fine art project and feature-length documentary that together strike at the root of anti-LGBTQ+ attitudes by exploring the challenges and aspirations of LGBTQ+ Catholics and, indeed, any religious tradition that does not fully embrace our LGBTQ+ siblings. Quest - [My Years With Quest: Looking Back, Letting Go - and Looking Ahead.](https://questlgbti.uk/my-years-with-quest-looking-back-letting-go-and-looking-ahead/) - Terry Weldon writes: I have now attended seven consecutive Quest conferences, sometimes as a speaker or workshop facilitator, and except for the first time, always as a committee member. This year, after a lengthy period of reflection and introspection, I have not made myself available for re-election. At my personal blog, Queering the Church, I - [Nottingham Diocese Mass for LGBT Catholics](https://questlgbti.uk/nottingham-diocese-mass-for-lgbt-catholics/) - On Saturday 28th October – the feast of the apostles, SS Simon & Jude – the parish of St. Alban in Chaddesden, Derby, hosted the second annual Mass for LGBT people, their families and friends in the diocese of Nottingham, following a Mass celebrated by Bishop Patrick in the Cathedral last year. About eighty people - [Quest’s response to Pope Francis on laws criminalising LGBT+ people](https://questlgbti.uk/quests-response-to-pope-francis-on-laws-criminalising-lgbt-people/) - Quest welcomes Pope Francis’ very clear statement that laws criminalising LGBT+ people are ‘unjust’, and his reminder that “We are all children of God, and God loves us as we are and for the strength that each of us fights for our dignity”. He called Bishops who support criminalisation to a process of conversion. We - [Christian Objections to Same-Sex Relationships: An Academic Assessment](https://questlgbti.uk/christian-objections-to-same-sex-relationships-an-academic-assessment/) - Theologians challenge homophobia & signal a time for change: The Wijngaards Institute for Catholic Research’s new report: “Christian Objections to Same-Sex Relationships: An Academic Assessment” “For decades the bible has been used to justify discrimination against same-sex relationships. This new study presents ground-breaking research showing that the biblical verses so long held to condemn those - [Quest interview with Elizabeth James author of ‘The Turkey Baster Diaries’](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-interview-with-elizabeth-james-author-of-the-turkey-baster-diaries/) - Interviewee: Elizabeth James (Lizzie), author - Interviewer: Gerard Swan, Chair to Quest Gerard: Hi Lizzie and welcome to Quest. I have to say that I was absolutely delighted to be offered the opportunity to have an advanced read of your new book ‘The Turkey Baster Dairies’ in preparation for this interview, which coincides with its forthcoming - [Quest's statement on Proposed legislation banning Conversion Therapy](https://questlgbti.uk/proposed-legislation-banning-conversion-therapy/) - This week the government announced its plans to bring about legislation to ban so called ‘Conversion Therapy’, “an umbrella term used to describe interventions of a wide-ranging nature, all of which have in common the belief that a person's sexual orientation or gender identity can and should be changed. Such practices aim (or claim to - [Remembering Alan Gerrard](https://questlgbti.uk/remembering-alan-gerrard/) - How can anyone not know Alan, who was a quiet, almost shy and retiring man? He was charming, sweet and generous with his time and talents. We found much in common with our interest in photography and with our mutual connection with the now long gone, National Catholic Radio and Television Centre in Hatch End. - [Quest's Response to the CDF statement on 'the blessing of the unions of persons of the same sex'](https://questlgbti.uk/quests-response-to-the-cdf-statement-on-the-blessing-of-the-unions-of-persons-of-the-same-sex/) - Responsum of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith to a dubium regarding the blessing of the unions of persons of the same sex, 15.03.2021 TO THE QUESTION PROPOSED: Does the Church have the power to give the blessing to unions of persons of the same sex? RESPONSE: Negative. (See here for the full - [Belarusian Convent Operating in Britain Engages in Homophobic Campaigning](https://questlgbti.uk/belarusian-convent-operating-in-britain-engages-in-homophobic-campaigning/) - Personal reflection by a long-standing Quest member I was surprised when another Quest member asked me whether I knew St Elisabeth Convent in Minsk, Belarus. Indeed, I was well aware of this only functioning Orthodox convent in the city that used to be my home. It regularly features in Belarusian media, often - for the - ['My Faithful Ally' - A Place at the Table](https://questlgbti.uk/my-faithful-ally-a-place-at-the-table/) - My Faithful Ally is a recently introduced Podcast "The aim of the podcast is to provide and create a platform where Christians (from both the lgbt+ community and not) can have a positive discussion about how sexuality impacts people’s faith, and their relationship with other Christians and non-Christians." Episode 6 features Quest’s Chair, Gerard Swan - [Staying connected](https://questlgbti.uk/staying-connected-in-challenging-times/) - This page was last checked / updated: 12/06/20 Here's some information about how we might stay connected to various spiritual communities and resources. There's lots more on Quest's Main Facebook page which you can find here. News / Most recent updates 'A Big Disease with a Little Name' a very moving and interesting series of - [Pilgrimage weekend at Aylesford in July](https://questlgbti.uk/pilgrimage-weekend-at-aylesford-in-july/) - [With Full Conviction](https://questlgbti.uk/with-full-conviction/) - The With Full Conviction project seeks to provide spiritual resources for a peaceable community, through our plays and online prayer courses. Our drama company was set up in 2014 with the aim of reaching those who have become alienated from Christianity or have never seen it as having relevance to their lives. Our project has - ["Male and Female He Created Them" - Quest Response](https://questlgbti.uk/male-and-female-he-created-them-quest-response/) - The Vatican's Congregation for Catholic Education released a document on 10th June 2019, Male and Female He Created Them: Towards a path of dialogue on the questions of gender theory (http://www.educatio.va/content/dam/cec/Documenti/19_0997_INGLESE.pdf). Quest has issued the following response to the document: Response of Quest to “Male and Female He Created Them” It does not happen often - [Trans Day of Remembrance 2020](https://questlgbti.uk/trans-day-of-remembrance-2020/) - “Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is an international day held on the 20th November to remember and stand in solidarity with our trans siblings whose lives have been lost due to anti-transgender hatred and violence. Transgender Day of Remembrance was originally started in 1999 by trans activist Gwendolyn Ann Smith, to honour Rita Hester who was - [Black History Month](https://questlgbti.uk/black-history-month/) - In Quest we support our members to reconcile faith with gender identity and sexuality. How these are shaped and formed is often closely interwoven with our culture and heritage. As an organisation we need to continue expanding our understanding of intersectionality to better serve the full breadth of our membership (current and future) so that - [Cardinal Nichols Acknowledges Quest's Work](https://questlgbti.uk/cardinal-nichols-support-for-quest/) - On November 11th, Cardinal Nichols wrote to all the priests of Westminster diocese about the need for ministry to lesbian and gay Catholics (which he refers to as "those who live with a same-sex attraction"). The actual content of this letter is brief and somewhat bland, but it makes two important observations. The first is - [“Traditional Biblical Values” – Rev Susan Russell Sermon (Video)](https://questlgbti.uk/traditional-biblical-values-rev-susan-russell-sermon-video/) - In the Episcopal Church (and wider Anglican communion), the next to last Sunday of the year is known as "Bible Sunday", with a collect that reads: Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that we may - [Raindance Film Festival 2020](https://questlgbti.uk/raindance-film-festival-2020/) - From 28 Oct-7 Nov 2020, the 28th Raindance Film Festival will screen hundreds of short and feature films, online and free of charge, accessible from anywhere in the UK. One of the festival strands, QUEER, showcases films that examine the everyday life, complexity, frustrations and celebrations of the LGBTQ+ experience. The selection can be found here. To - [Blood on its Hands: The Church and LGBT Youth by Carol Shepherd](https://questlgbti.uk/blood-on-its-hands-the-church-and-lgbt-youth-by-carol-shepherd/) - I was fortunate enough to be offered an advanced copy of this book by the author. The keynote speaker at the 2019 Gathering Voices conference ‘Extending the Table’, Carol Shepherd, an academic, has an impressive publications portfolio. In this book she challenges ‘the Christian church’ to consider the all-too-well documented negative impacts of its teaching - [Quest: Celebrating who we are with PRIDE](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-celebrating-who-we-are/) - Quest has a strong history of marching in various Prides around the country. Never deterred by the weather, this year we won't be deterred by COVID19. So this year we are doing it online. We celebrate what we have achieved, and we march remembering what still needs to be done. We stand with our siblings - [First Online AGM for Quest](https://questlgbti.uk/first-online-agm-for-quest/) - First Online AGM for Quest The 2020 Quest annual conference was scheduled to be held 17-19 July in Manchester but was postponed until 2021 because of COVID-19. However, the AGM, usually a key part of the weekend conference, went ahead online via Zoom. The pandemic prompted this new way of conducting business but by being - [Quest at Switchboard Pride](https://questlgbti.uk/switchboard-pride/) - Quest was delighted to be part of Switchboard Pride the weekend of 7-9 August 2020. Mark Dowd, former Chair of Quest took part in the panel discussion "Queerness and Religion" along with other LGBTQ+ faith groups OneBodyOneFaith, Hidayah, Sarbat and KeshetUK. Watch the video below (if you get a "Video unavailable" message click on the - [Lay Catholic LGB Discrimination in the 21st Century](https://questlgbti.uk/gnrc-lgb-discrimination/) - “There are still multiple forms of Church influenced discrimination in the 21st Century” The Global Network of Rainbow Catholics released its first report about Lay Catholic LGB Discrimination in a Live broadcast on June 28. This is an important piece of work and represents voices that cry out to be heard. During the launch Dr - [What can the Catholic Church learn from LGBT+ people of faith during the pandemic?](https://questlgbti.uk/what-can-the-catholic-church-learn-from-lgbt-people-of-faith-during-the-pandemic/) - The Centre for Catholic Social Thought and Practice, an organisation based at Durham University that seeks to bring academic theologians and practitioners within Catholic organisations into dialogue, is curating a series of blog articles recording the insights and experiences of Catholic keyworkers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The series aims to be a resource for - [Portraits in Faith: Michael B Kelly](https://questlgbti.uk/portraits-in-faith-michael-b-kelly/) - Michael B Kelly is an openly gay, Catholic Australian scholar and spiritual director and writer on gay spirituality ("Seduced by Grance"). His doctoral research on spirituality and contemporary gay experience was entitled: “Queer Flame of Love: re-imagining the Christian mystical tradition in light of the experience of contemporary gay men.” On facebook this week, he - [Danny Barnes RIP](https://questlgbti.uk/danny-barnes-rip/) - Mike Egan, former Secretary of Quest, has written this obituary of Danny Barnes who was actively involved in Quest in the 1980s and 1990s, and particularly with Linkline, which operated for over 30 years from 1981. "Danny Barnes Danny Barnes (17 June 1944 – 15 May 2020) was a leading member of London Quest, and - [GNRC Press Release: "Welcoming and listening to LGBTIQ+ people and their families ..."](https://questlgbti.uk/gnrc-press-release-welcoming-and-listening-to-lgbtiq-people-and-their-families/) - GNRC Press Release N°13: International Network of LGBTIQ+ Catholics declares: “Welcoming and listening to LGBTIQ+ people and their families – not banning – is the call by Pope Francis to our Shepherds” The Global Network of Rainbow Catholics supports DignityUSA and Fortunate Families chapters after being banned by Archdiocese of Detroit Available in: English / - [Outside the City: Monks, Beer, and Quest - DVD](https://questlgbti.uk/monks-beer-and-quest/) - Nick Hamer's feature documentary about the monks of Mount St Bernard Abbey, Outside the City, has now been released as a DVD. The Monks: a contemplative Roman Catholic monastic community of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance in Leicestershire. They live a balanced life of work and prayer; of radical discipleship and fidelity to the Gospel, - [Loss and gain amid the fragility of life](https://questlgbti.uk/loss-and-gain-amid-the-fragility-of-life/) - In December 2019, J.K. Rowling was the subject of a heavy backlash after tweeting support for a transphobic researcher named Dr Maya Forstater. Forestater was fired from her job in September 2018 after strongly opposing the Gender Recognition Act. She views gender as strictly binary and expressed that “men cannot change into women.” Her former - [Unorthodox: LGBT+ Identity and Faith](https://questlgbti.uk/unorthodox-lgbt-identity-and-faith/) - Edited by Sean Richardson Unorthodox brings together a series of stories drawn from oral history interviews conducted throughout the UK as part of Sean 's doctoral thesis. In his own words: “As a queer person and a Catholic, one question has plagued my life: how can you be religious and LGBTQ+? This question has been - [Rough Ideas: Reflections on Music and More by Stephen Hough](https://questlgbti.uk/rough-ideas-reflections-on-music-and-more-by-stephen-hough/) - The author notes in his introduction that “Hough rhymes with rough” and uses the same word in his title. The irony is that he, as a man, and this, as writing, are about as far from rough as I can imagine. This is a most ‘refined’ book from an extraordinary man, whose ‘rough ideas’ cover - [Quest Retreat Postponed](https://questlgbti.uk/do-whatever-he-tells-you-2020-quest-retreat/) - In light of the current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic the Quest Retreat ("Do whatever he tells you"), due to take place at Mount Saint Bernard Abbey in May, will not now take place. The Abbey announced on 19th March that the Guesthouse will be closed with effect from Monday 23rd March until further notice. This decision - [COVID-19 - Impact on the LGBT community](https://questlgbti.uk/covid19-impact-on-the-lgbt-community/) - Our friends at the LGBT Foundation are undertaking a “survey is being carried out to help us identify how LGBT communities in the UK are being affected by the current coronavirus crisis and will help to shape the support that is being provided.” The survey can be found here: - [Pope sends help to Trans community](https://questlgbti.uk/pope-sends-help-to-trans-community/) - New Ways Ministry reports on Bondings 2.0 that Pope Francis has sent his personal almoner, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, the official charged with dispensing charitable contributions from the pope, to assist a transgender community which had appealed to a parish priest for assistance during the coronavirus pandemic. A group of trans people, mostly from Latin America - ['The Book of Queer Prophets'](https://questlgbti.uk/the-book-of-queer-prophets/) - Quest is delighted to see the publication and release today of ‘The Book of Queer Prophets’ (by Harper Collins) #queerprophets. “THE BOOK OF QUEER PROPHETS’ challenges the idea that sexuality and faith are incompatible and highlights the stories of people who are excluded by faith communities that preach about love but fail to assist the - [A Rosary for LGBTQ People](https://questlgbti.uk/a-rosary-for-lgbtq-people/) - Fr Don Greene, MSSD Chaplain of the San Diego chapter of DIGNITY USA, has written 20 reflections on the Mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary for LGBTQ people. In his introduction to the reflections Fr Don writes: "The Rosary for LGBTQ People is designed to add prayerful time to the LGBTQ person’s – or allied - [IDAHO(BIT) 2020](https://questlgbti.uk/idahobit-2020/) - A Worldwide Celebration of Sexual and Gender Diversities Deposition from the Cross. Good Friday in a Time of Virus. Image by Vywcheslav Okun, SJ With Covid19 has come a unified sense of vulnerability across the country and across the world. Our stories have something in common with those of our neighbours, immediate and abroad, and - [Covid 19: a reflection](https://questlgbti.uk/covid-19-a-reflection/) - [Praying Eucharistically in the "Lockdown" with James Alison](https://questlgbti.uk/praying-eucharistically-in-the-lockdown-with-james-alison/) - The site linked below is James Alison's invitation to an experiment in this time when many Christians of all denominations are unable to attend Church services, perhaps for several weeks or even months. In this experiment, James is putting his presbyteral orders at our service by offering a structure to enable a new way of - [Alone Together: a guide to isolation and social distancing from those who know](https://questlgbti.uk/alone-together-a-guide-to-isolation-and-social-distancing-from-those-who-know/) - https://www.alonetogether.org.uk/ These online resources are offered to help people live through the coronavirus pandemic. Their special quality is that they don’t come from theories; they all come from those with experience of social distancing or isolation, people who have lived this reality either intentionally like monks and nuns or against their will like hostages - ["How to apply for asylum" guide update](https://questlgbti.uk/how-to-apply-for-asylum-guide-update/) - The Lesbian & Gay Immigration Group (UKLGIG) has updated its 'How to Apply for Asylum' guide. The guide is available in 9 languages and it explains the process and possible types of evidence for asylum claims based on being LGBTQI+. The translations are available in PDF format and videos have been created to go alongside - [Quest Privacy Policy](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-privacy-policy/) - Quest's Privacy Policy can be found here: - [Nottingham Diocese LGBT Masses 2020](https://questlgbti.uk/nottingham-diocese-lgbt-masses-2020/) - The Diocese of Nottingham ministry to LGBT+ Catholics, their families and friends - 2020 events. The Annual Diocesan Mass will take place in Lincoln on Saturday 11th July at 12:00 noon at St Hugh’s Church, LN2 5AQ. Confessions and Exposition from 10:45 onwards. Local Masses will be celebrated in different cities within the Diocese as follows: Saturday - [Fr. James Martin Releases New Video on Top 5 Questions About LGBTQ Ministry](https://questlgbti.uk/fr-james-martin-releases-new-video-on-top-5-questions-about-lgbtq-ministry/) - Brian Kaufman of New Ways Ministry that Fr James Martin SJ has released a YouTube video entitled the Five Most Common Questions About LGBT Catholic Ministry in which he explores the most frequent questions about LGBT Catholics he receives at his lectures, in his ministry, and in personal conversations: Are you challenging church teaching on homosexuality? What - [LGBT+ Catholics Westminster 2021 Rome Pilgrimage](https://questlgbti.uk/lgbt-catholics-westminster-2021-rome-pilgrimage/) - LGBT+ Catholics Westminster are planning their 4th Pilgrimage to Rome for Lent 2021, from Monday, 15 February to Sunday, 21 February 2021 inclusive. The pilgrimage will be led by Martin Pendergast but numbers are limited to 15-20 people. Early booking is therefore essential. The approximate cost for B&B accommodation, flights, etc will be around £700, - [Quest attends Government Equalities Office summit](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-attends-government-equalities-office-summit/) - Quest was invited to participate in the first ever LGBT Leadership Summit of the Government Equality Office. Charities across the sector came together to network for the next steps towards full inclusion of LGBT people. The summit took place over two days beginning on Wednesday 5th February. As one of the commitments made in the - [Rainbow Catholics India: Death of Wendell Rodricks](https://questlgbti.uk/rainbow-catholics-india-death-of-wendell-rodricks/) - Quest is saddened to learn of the death on 12th February of Wendell Rodricks at the age of 59. Wendell was a founder member of Rainbow Catholics India. He was perhaps best known as a fashion designer and author based in the western Indian region of Goa. In addition he was an activist for social - [The Book of Queer Prophets, a collection of essays on sexuality and religion](https://questlgbti.uk/the-book-of-queer-prophets-a-collection-of-essays-on-sexuality-and-religion/) - Ruth Hunt, who was Chief Executive of Stonewall from 2014 to 2019, has put together a collection of essays on sexuality and religion entitled The Book of Queer Prophets, to be published by William Collins in June. Contributors include Jeanette Winterson, activist Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, filmmaker Dustin Lance Black, writer Amrou Al-Kadhi, poet Pádraig Ó Tuama, Keith - [UK Lesbian & Gay Immigration Group establishes new support groups](https://questlgbti.uk/uk-lesbian-gay-immigration-group-establishes-new-support-groups/) - The UK Lesbian & Gay Immigration Group (UKLGIG) is establishing new support groups. If you know an LGBTQI+ person seeking asylum who wants to connect with others in the same boat, they might be eligible. The meetings currently take place in London SE1 and there is an advice surgery in Birmingham. If applicants cannot attend - [Quest in the North radio interview](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-in-the-north-radio-interview/) - If you didn't hear Gez Hodgson and Mark Dowd from the Quest in the North Group live on Mike Shaft’s, Manchester Radio, Sunday Morning show, you can catch-up now. It's a great interview starting at: 01:46:33. Listen through to 01:58:20 to catch the whole thing (there's an interesting boxing match interruption part way through so - [What does the Bible say about LGBTQI+ Issues?](https://questlgbti.uk/clifton-diocese-lgbt-ministry-mass/) - Programme and details of speakers available via the link: CliftonWorkshopProgrammeSpeaker Notes - [LGBT+ Campaigner meets Pope Francis](https://questlgbti.uk/lgbt-campaigner-meets-pope-francis/) - In mid-November, Pope Francis met with Jayne Ozanne, a prominent gay evangelical Anglican campaigner against so-called “conversion therapy”. During the meeting, which took place after Mass in the Pope’s private chapel, Ms Ozanne presented the Pope with a copy of her memoir, Just Love, and the findings of a 2018 survey into faith and sexuality. - [Dignity USA celebrates 50th anniversary](https://questlgbti.uk/dignity-usas-celebrates-50th-anniversary/) - Dignity USA celebrated its 50th anniversary with a conference over July 4th weekend. The conference titled "True to Ourselves, True to the Spirit", gave attendees the opportunity to reflect on the organisation's past as well as its future. Theologian Mary Hunt, one of the keynote speakers, said the conference was a moment for "rejoicing" because - [Nottingham Diocese: LGBT+ Mass in Leicester - 2nd November](https://questlgbti.uk/nottingham-diocese-lgbt-mass-in-leicester-2nd-november/) - The fourth annual Mass for LGBT+ Catholics, their families and friends, organised by the Diocese of Nottingham, took place in the parish church of the Sacred Heart in Leicester on All Souls' Day (2nd November). The celebrant was Fr Simon Robson OP, assisted by the two parish deacons, the Reverend Bill Myers and the Reverend - [Quest's new Deputy Chair](https://questlgbti.uk/quests-new-deputy-chair/) - Gerard Swan, Chair of Quest, is delighted to announce that at its most recent meeting (19th/20th October) the committee elected Greg Thornton to be Deputy Chair of Quest. - [Quest Safeguarding Policies now in place](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-safeguarding-policies-now-in-place/) - Earlier this year Quest National Committee approved safeguarding policies in respect of children, young people and vulnerable adults. They are based on best practice and each policy and procedure will be reviewed annually by the Committee at the first full committee meeting of the year. This will include checking for any updates required by a - [BE AWARE: Quest's URL has changed](https://questlgbti.uk/beware-of-domain-change/) - Regular users of the website will be aware that the URL has now changed from questgaycatholic.org.uk to questlgbti.uk. If you arrive on the home page having followed an old link please substitute the domain name keeping all other parts of the link the same. - [Well-attended first Salford LGBT+ Mass](https://questlgbti.uk/well-attended-first-salford-lgbt-mass/) - The Bishop of Salford, John Arnold, was principal celebrant of the first Mass hosted by the diocese for LGBT+ Catholics, their families and friends at Holy Name Church, Oxford Road, Manchester on Saturday 12 October. It is estimated that more than 300 people attended the Mass, including members of Quest, among them former Chairs, Ruby - [LGBT+ Catholics Westminster challenge Home Office abuses](https://questlgbti.uk/lgbt-catholics-westminster-challenge-home-office-abuses/) - The LGBT+ Catholics Westminster Pastoral Council is deeply troubled by reports of humiliating and insensitive lines of interrogation of LGBT+ asylum seekers by the Home Office. Such experiences of Home Office prejudice are often shared by LGBT+ refugees within our own Catholic community. We applaud the Metropolitan Community Church - North London for undertaking this - [Successful Quest Conference on Conscience](https://questlgbti.uk/day-conference-on-conscience/) - Quest's Day Conference on Conscience (ACCOMPANIMENT-DISCERNMENT-CONSCIENCE) successfully took place on Saturday 29th June at St. Mary Moorfields, in London. It was planned and organised in collaboration with the Diocese of Westminster together with our good friend and colleague Dr. Clare Watkins (lay Theologian at the University of Roehampton) - [Reflection: Good Times & Bum Times](https://questlgbti.uk/reflection-good-times-bum-times/) - Good times and bum times, I've seen them all/And, my dear, I'm still here/Plush velvet sometimes/Sometimes just pretzels and beer, but I'm here. These lines from the song, “I’m still here”, written by Stephen Sondheim and featured in the 1971 musical Follies, have a poignancy about them. During 2018, I - [Book Review: Sex on Earth as it is in Heaven](https://questlgbti.uk/book-review-sex-on-earth-as-it-is-in-heaven/) - Patricia Beattie Jung, Sex on Earth as it is in Heaven: A Christian Eschatology of Desire, State University of New York Press. This not a book for the faint hearted. The title itself for me I found off putting in its suggestion of “Sex in Heaven”. Such speculation as to how it will be I - [Book Review: A Stranger and You Welcomed Me: A Call to Mercy and Solidarity with Migrants and Refugees](https://questlgbti.uk/book-review-a-stranger-and-you-welcomed-me-a-call-to-mercy-and-solidarity-with-migrants-and-refugees/) - Pope Francis, A stranger and You Welcomed Me: A Call to Mercy and Solidarity with Migrants and Refugees, Robert Ellsberg, ed., Orbis, Maryknoll, 2018 This book provides a valuable resource in gathering together homilies, addresses and commentaries by Pope Francis on the subject of migrants and refugees. Part 1 contains 24 entries under the heading - [Book Review: In the Closet of the Vatican](https://questlgbti.uk/book-review-in-the-closet-of-the-vatican/) - In the Closet of the Vatican: Power, Homosexuality, Hypocrisy by Frédéric Martel (English translation by Shaun Whiteside, Bloomsbury, 2019) Before reading this book, I thought I had a fair idea of the high proportion of gay clerics in the ranks of the institutional Church. After reading it, I realise that I had badly underestimated the - [Diversity in the classroom](https://questlgbti.uk/diversity-in-the-classroom/) - Quest receives a mention in the current edition of The Tablet (14 September 2019 - Celebrating diversity in the classroom). The article written by Sidonie Bertrand-Shelton, head of education programmes at Stonewall, discusses the importance of teaching love, respect and acceptance in Catholic schools, and in all faith schools. Sidonie writes that it is important that young - [Gay Conversion Therapy - a gay Catholic speaks out](https://questlgbti.uk/gay-conversion-therapy-a-gay-catholic-speaks-out/) - Timothy, a gay Catholic who felt called to the priesthood, courageously speaks abou the distressing experience of undergoing gay conversion therapy on advice he was given during a visit to the shrine of Our Lady at Medjugorje. Access the programme on BBC Sounds at https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000831l. Timothy's contribution to the discussion begins at 32mins19 secs. - [LGBTQI+ people held in detention: LEND YOUR VOICE](https://questlgbti.uk/lgbtqi-people-held-in-detention-lend-your-voice/) - UKLGIG has launched the #LendYourVoice campaign with 28 LGBTQI+ celebrities and influencers to share the stories of LGBTQI+ people who have been held within the UK immigration detention system. They are releasing one video on Twitter every day for 28 days. Celebrities and influencers involved in the campaign include Great British Bake Off star Rav Bansal, - [BAME people and charities - an online survey](https://questlgbti.uk/bame-people-and-charities-an-online-survey/) - The Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations (ACEVO) and Voice4Change are carrying out research to understand what people connected to charities think about race equality, diversity and inclusivity in the sector. This online survey will take around 20 minutes to complete. The survey closes on 30 September 2019. The survey is designed to be - [Nottingham Diocese LGBT+ ministry](https://questlgbti.uk/nottingham-diocese-lgbt-ministry/) - Bishop Patrick McKinney of Nottingham has been clear about the welcome that LGBT+ Catholics should receive in his diocese. He has authorised the following statement: “Bishop Patrick wishes everybody a warm welcome in the diocese; that includes, in an explicit way, members of the LGBT+ community. To demonstrate and share the Good News of God's - [Another great Quest Conference](https://questlgbti.uk/another-great-quest-conference/) - This year's Quest Conference in Winchester reportedly went well with two brilliant, informative and thought-provoking speakers, Mary McAleese (pictured below with Mark Dowd) and Sam Hall. One delegate commented that the venue and the food were both good. A report on the conference will appear in the Autumn Quest Bulletin which should be going out - [Pádraig Ó Tuama: The Sacred Podcast](https://questlgbti.uk/padraig-o-tuama-the-sacred-podcast/) - Pádraig Ó Tuama is a poet, theologian and peace maker. Until recently he was the leader of the Corrymeela community, which is Ireland’s oldest peace and reconciliation organisation. They describe themselves as 'people who seek to engage with the differences of our world... people who disagree with each other on matters of religion, politics and - [Should bishops abstain from preaching about sexuality and gender?](https://questlgbti.uk/why-catholic-bishops-need-a-year-of-abstinence-on-preaching-about-sexuality/) - According to John Gehring, in a commentary for the National Catholic Reporter in the US (26 June 2019), if Catholic bishops "hope to reclaim their moral credibility after revelations about covering up clergy sexual abuse", they should take a year's break from speaking and preaching about sexuality and gender issues. Recent examples of where silence - [A song for Pride](https://questlgbti.uk/a-song-for-pride/) - The Catholic liturgical composer David Haas has released a new song for Pride inspired by Psalm 139 which begins: "O Lord, you search me and you know me". The lyrics of the song are: "I will praise you God, you have embroidered me; for all these mysteries I thank you. You have created every part - [Announcement](https://questlgbti.uk/announcement/) - LGBT+ Mass at Clifton Diocese Quest member John Flannery and Chair Ruby Almeida met with Bishop Declan Lang in November 2018. Bishop Lang approved the idea of holding a Mass for LGBT+, families and friends. Now, after less than three months, a series of Masses are to be held at St. Nicholas of Tolentino in - [After the Hurt, We Need Healing](https://questlgbti.uk/after-the-hurt-we-need-healing/) - Quest, the only national British group for LGBT Catholics, welcomes Pope Francis apology for past hurt by the Church. Now, we need healing. - [Quest 2019 Retreat: 17-19 May](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-2019-retreat-17-19-may/) - Another highly enjoyable Quest annual retreat at Mount Saint Bernard Abbey. A full report will appear in the Autumn Quest Bulletin. Photo courtesy of Paul Begley. - [Quest’s Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults Policy](https://questlgbti.uk/quests-safeguarding-vulnerable-adults-policy/) - Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility: Quest is an association established to offer support and fellowship to LGBT+ Catholic adults. Quest’s members typically meet in private homes or public venues such as churches or conference centres. As such, Quest acknowledges that vulnerable adults may be members of Quest or possibly contact us seeking support, fellowship or just - [Quest’s Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy](https://questlgbti.uk/quests-safeguarding-children-and-young-people-policy/) - Definition: throughout the policy the use of ‘children’ is shorthand for ‘children and young people’. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility: Quest is an association established to offer support and fellowship to LGBT+ Catholic adults. Quest members typically meet in private homes or public venues such as churches or conference centres. The organisation does not exist to - [Empathy: softened hearts and hopes restored](https://questlgbti.uk/empathy-softened-hearts-and-hopes-restored/) - “A healthy person cannot feel the pains of sickness, nor can one who is well-fed feel the pangs of hunger.” This passage, a popular saying of the time, is quoted by St Bernard (1090-1153) in his first teaching as abbot of Clairvaux (1119). It is a commentary on chapter seven of the Rule of St - [Jesus spat on the ground](https://questlgbti.uk/jesus-spat-on-the-ground/) - In many parts of the world, including the West, spitting is widely frowned upon as rude, a health hazard and a social taboo, while in other parts it is considered as socially acceptable. At the age of twelve my father’s job was at risk and the choice open to him was either to take the - [Book Review - Inclusivity: a Gospel mandate by Dairmuid O'Murchu](https://questlgbti.uk/inclusivity-a-gospel-mandate-by-dairmuid-omurchu/) - I found this book stimulating and challenging. Dairmuid O’Murchu presents an appeal to rediscover, and keep at the centre of our spiritual lives, the essential Gospel command of an inclusive attitude of welcome, forgiveness, unconditional love and acceptance. The challenge is reinforced from two complementary angles. First, from the evidence of Jesus’ encounters with the - [In memory of Lyra Catherine McKee: Journalist, Catholic & Gay, R.I.P.](https://questlgbti.uk/in-memory-of-lyra-catherine-mckee-journalist-catholic-gay-r-i-p/) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ymU-5Y3rkY Lyra Catherine McKee, 31 March 1990-28 April 2019. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. Pray for her partner, Sara Canning, Lyra's family and all who mourn the death of this gifted woman. Pray for Northern Ireland. - [Vatican Secretary of State meets LGBT+ Advocates](https://questlgbti.uk/vatican-secretary-of-state-meets-lgbt-advocates/) - Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, met with a large group of lawyers, politicians, and activists – among them Baroness Helena Kennedy, director of the International Bar Association's Human Rights Institute – on Friday 5th April 2019. The group presented him with research on anti-LGBT+ criminalisation laws in the Caribbean that will be - [Gender Identity: "One more way to be human"](https://questlgbti.uk/gender-identity-one-more-way-to-be-human/) - One more way to be human is the title of a feature article in The Tablet (6 April 2019), written by Professor David Albert Jones, the director of the Anscombe Bioethics Centre in Oxford. Professor Jones is developing a project at St Mary’s University, Twickenham with Dr Claire Jenkins to engage with trans people who - [Document on Youth Synod: advice to LGBT+ young Catholics is lacking](https://questlgbti.uk/document-on-youth-synod-neglects-lgbt-youth/) - On the feast of the Annunciation (25 March), Pope Francis signed a Letter to Young People (Christus Vivit ["Christ is alive"]), the result of the Synod on Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment last year. In this Letter, Pope Francis makes a direct appeal to young people, addressing them throughout. He encourages them to grow in - [Queer and Catholic, A life of Contradiction](https://questlgbti.uk/queer-and-catholic-a-life-of-contradiction/) - Previous Quest Chair, writer, journalist and broadcaster Mark Dowd will talk about his book with a workshop on our own personal journeys on being Queer and Catholic, Saturday 30th March, 12-5pm, Birmingham LGBT Centre, downstairs Café space, 38-40 Holloway Circus, B1 1EQ - [The Tablet calls for the Church to reconcile with LGBT+ Catholics](https://questlgbti.uk/the-tablet-calls-for-the-church-to-reconcile-with-lgbt-catholics/) - Citing the recent successful pilgrimage to Rome by members and supporters of the LGBT+ group based at London's Jesuit Church of the Immaculate Conception, Farm Street, The Tablet (16 March 2019) describes the Church's traditional language about gay men and women, especially the phrase "intrinsically disordered", as "frankly incomprehensible". It continues: "The reconciliation of the - [Pope Francis meets Westminster LGBT+ pilgrims](https://questlgbti.uk/pope-francis-meets-westminster-lgbt-pilgrims/) - The 3rd LGBT+ Catholics Westminster Pilgrimage to Rome ended, Sunday, 10 March 2019. On Ash Wednesday, 6 March 2019, the 16 pilgrims, including parents and family members alongside LGBT Catholics with Pilgrimage Chaplain, Fr. David Stewart SJ, had privileged seats at the morning Papal Audience in St. Peter's Square. At the end of the General - [2018 Conference Report](https://questlgbti.uk/2018-conference-report/) - This year’s Annual Conference, held in the comfortable surroundings of Bishop Grosseteste University, Lincoln, was my first experience of any Quest event, and I was not at all disappointed. It was good to enter as a group into the highly topical discussion surrounding James Martin’s book Building a Bridge. In a more general way I - [New Ways Ministry launches "Journeys"](https://questlgbti.uk/new-ways-ministry-launches-journeys/) - J O U R N E Y S “I tell you now that I will lead you out of your oppression… to a land flowing with milk and honey” (Exodus 3:17) A Scripture Reflection Series for LGBT People and Allies JOURNEYS is an invitation to walk with our ancestors, discover the great source of love, - [Vatican braces itself for a difficult year](https://questlgbti.uk/vatican-braces-itself-for-a-difficult-year/) - "In the Closet of the Vatican: Power, Homosexuality, Hypocrisy" a book by Frederic Martel and translated into English by Shaun Whiteside, is set to be published by Bloomsbury Continuum in February. At just short of 600 pages the book is being promoted as an exposition of “the rot at the heart of the Vatican and the Roman - [Tragedies and joys in the pursuit of happiness](https://questlgbti.uk/tragedies-and-joys-in-the-pursuit-of-happiness/) - In March 2016, a 35-year-old junior barrister appeared at the Old Bailey in March and admitted two counts of supplying controlled drugs to his boyfriend, 18-year-old Colombian waiter, Miguel. The barrister woke on a morning in January 2015 to find his partner dead beside him. The previous afternoon they had taken their dog to the - ["Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness"](https://questlgbti.uk/bind-him-hand-and-foot-and-throw-him-into-the-outer-darkness/) - Do these words of Jesus offend our sense of justice and fairness? Jesus uses them in the parable of the wedding banquet (Matthew 22:2-14). Those invited to the banquet not only refuse to come, they make light of the invitation and even kill the king’s servants who delivered the invitations. So, the king sends - [Paul: a biography by N T Wright](https://questlgbti.uk/paul-a-biography/) - The first occasion I was prevailed upon to prepare the liturgies for a Quest Conference, following the first Evening Prayer of the conference, I was dumbfounded to find myself under fire from a delegate because I had included a reading from one of St Paul’s letters. My complainant believed that Paul’s writings should be banished - [Book Review: The Final Retreat by Stephen Hough](https://questlgbti.uk/book-review-the-final-retreat-by-stephen-hough/) - To say that I was hooked from the first paragraph of the first chapter of this book would be an understatement; it grabbed me in such a way that I experienced time travel and was yanked back to my first days as a priest. Fr Joseph Flynn is a Catholic priest who has wandered from - [Quest support for LGBT+ refugees and asylum seekers](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-support-for-lgbt-refugees-and-asylum-seekers/) - In the margins of the 2018 Conference a few delegates gathered on Saturday afternoon to discuss the important work being undertaken by individual members to support asylum seekers and refugees. In particular, discussion centred around whether it would be possible to support those members at a more formal level. One area that was considered to - [Home Office failing LGBTQI+ people in asylum accommodation](https://questlgbti.uk/home-office-failing-lgbtqi-people-in-asylum-accommodation/) - Report finds Home Office system for providing accommodation to people seeking asylum is inadequate to ‘take proper account of the needs of LGBTQI+ individuals’. An independent inspection of the Home Office’s management of asylum accommodation has found that the Home Office is not giving any choice to LGBTQI+ people about the accommodation in which they are placed - [Rediscovering Jesus: Retreat for men](https://questlgbti.uk/rediscovering-jesus-retreat-for-men/) - Retreat for Men: Calpe, Costa Blanca, 12 - 19 June 2019. The retreat will be led by Pádraig Ó Tuama Full costs for this year is: €495. (currently £440) Because of volatile exchange rates, the retreat is this year priced in euro. ONLY ONE PLACE REMAINING - but there is also a room vacant for a - [Nottingham Diocesan LGBT+ Mass](https://questlgbti.uk/nottingham-diocesan-lgbt-mass/) - Approximately 50 persons attended Mass at Our Lady's Church in Bulwell, Nottingham on Saturday 3rd November for the Diocese of Nottingham's Mass for LGBT+ Catholics, their friends and families. The principal celebrant was the Parish Priest, Fr John Martin, who was joined by two concelebrants and the Parish Deacon, the Reverend Martyn Swaby. This is - [Survey reveals majority of global Catholics support rethink of LGBT teachings](https://questlgbti.uk/survey-reveals-majority-of-global-catholics-support-rethink-of-lgbt-teachings/) - A new survey of global Catholics published to coincide with the recent Synod on Youth has found a majority of respondents believe church teaching on LGBT issues should be reconsidered for the well-being of young people. The survey, released by the coalition group Equal Future 2018, found that 65% of baptised Catholics worldwide and 63% of - [Quest 2018 Retreat](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-2018-retreat/) - The retreat was deemed to have been a great success and worth repeating so the dates for next year’s retreat at the same venue have been booked (17th-19th May 2019). This year’s retreat was led by the Retreat Facilitator (and National Committee member), John Ashman. This was a last minute change as the member of - [Let’s Find Out the Real Number of Gay Priests in the Church](https://questlgbti.uk/lets-find-out-the-real-number-of-gay-priests-in-the-church/) - From Quest Bulletin 77 (Lent, 2017), a challenge concerning gay priests: “It is time for the bishops to commission a reputable survey to determine what percent of their priests are gay. They should also do a survey to determine the reaction of their flock to the reality of gay priests.” That’s one of the conclusions that - [Quest's Strategic Plan](https://questlgbti.uk/quests-strategic-planning-weekend/) - Over the weekend of 24th - 26th June, Quest committee members, regional convenors and a few invited former committee members spent a weekend working on a strategic plan to take Quest through the next few years. (For some background on why this meeting was called, see "Quest's Productive Working Weekend". In the interest of transparency, we - [Gaudete et Exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad)](https://questlgbti.uk/gaudete-et-exsultate-rejoice-and-be-glad/) - Gaudete et Exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad). Pope Francis I. Catholic Truth Society. ISBN 978-1-784-69596-5 Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation, Rejoice and Be Glad, on the call to holiness in today’s world, at a first glance did not appear to be the good read that I hoped it would be. Reviewers elsewhere have described it as - [English Catholics "Building a Bridge"](https://questlgbti.uk/english-catholics-building-a-bridge/) - The theme for this year's conference (taken from Fr James Martin's book "Building a Bridge") was "A Time to Build". Looking back on an extraordinarily successful, stimulating conference, what strikes me most is how much of this building Quest is already doing, and has done. The first and most obvious sign of this was staring - ["Everyone who saw this, grumbled" (Luke 19:7)](https://questlgbti.uk/everyone-who-saw-this-grumbled-luke-197/) - At the Quest annual conference "A Time to Build", one of the most useful insights for me came at the end of Fr James Martin's video presentation, in which he presented a short reflection on the familiar story of Zacchaeus, who had climbed into a sycamore tree to catch sight of Jesus passing through. The - [Sexuality, Gender Identity and Belief (Bulletin 80)](https://questlgbti.uk/sexuality-gender-identity-and-belief/) - “My partner's very robust and very self-assured about his sexuality. But even he’s struggled at times remaining within his faith.” “It is a sad fact that for some people, coming out within their own faith context is simply not an option.” These two quotes are taken from a guidance document – Sexuality, Gender Identity and - [“...for he was an old man, and heavy” (Quest Bulletin 80)](https://questlgbti.uk/for-he-was-an-old-man-and-heavy-quest-bulletin-80/) - This line from the first book of Samuel (4:18) could well describe me now that I am into my seventh decade. To the consternation of my friends and family members I have been piling on the kilograms in recent years. One friend, a doctor, looked at me and simply said, “Exercise!” For a while I - [Happy to be both: Lesbian and bisexual Catholic women (Bulletin 80)](https://questlgbti.uk/happy-to-be-both-lesbian-and-bisexual-catholic-women-bulletin-80/) - Happy to be both: Exploring lesbian and bisexual Catholic women’s experiences of religion and sexuality The following is a summary of the findings of Marie Houghton’s MSC dissertation entitled “Exploring lesbian and bisexual Catholic women’s narratives of religious and sexual identity formation and integration”. Introduction and research aims: Research has shown that many LGBT people - [School Visit: St Francis Xavier 6th Form College (London)](https://questlgbti.uk/school-visit-st-francis-xavier-6th-form-college-london/) - On Monday this week, I visited St Francis Xavier 6th Form College, on behalf of Quest, to talk about the experience of being both Catholic and gay (or lesbian). This was my third school visit. All have been different from each other, in how they were initiated and in the focus of the presentation - - [LGBT Catholic Testimony: Ruby Almeida (London, India)](https://questlgbti.uk/lgbt-catholic-testimony-ruby-almeida-london-india/) - Tomorrow, the Global Network of Rainbow Conference begins its Assembly with a series of "pre-conference" for delegates from Africa, Asia and South America. The main conference gets under way on Thursday. (Quest will be represented by our three delegates, our chair Ruby Almeida, Terry Weldon and Thomas Bartsch. In preparation for the Assembly, the GNRC - [Middlesbrough Mass for LGBT Catholics](https://questlgbti.uk/middlesbrough-mass-for-lgbt-catholics/) - The diocese of Middlesbrough reported in the September edition of "Catholic Voice" that after reflection by Bishop Terry, clergy, and parishioners, the Diocese would be initiating a new process of pastoral outreach and inclusion for LGBT Catholics. That process will be formally launched on December 10th in York, with a Mass for LGBT Catholics, their - [Resource: "A Catholic Conversation About Homosexuality"](https://questlgbti.uk/resource-a-catholic-conversation-about-homosexuality/) - Digging through my archives at Queering the Church, I'm delighted to have found a post I thought had been irretrievably lost, relating to a most useful resource at Fortunate Families. I thought it was important when I first came across it years ago: it's even more important now, with the more pastoral tone coming from - ["Queer and Catholic" - NOT a Contradiction](https://questlgbti.uk/queer-and-catholic-not-a-contradiction/) - Mark Dowd is a long term member and supporter of Quest. Last night, I and several other Quest members enjoyed the London launch of his impressive new book, "Queer and Catholic". (Members from up North, attended an earlier launch in Mark's hometown of Manchester). The book is subtitled "a life of contradictions". However, as - [London Workshop for Catholic LGBT Families](https://questlgbti.uk/london-workshop-for-catholic-lgbt-families/) - A constant theme during the 2014 and 2015 synod assemblies on marriage and family, and of Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation that followed it, was the importance of listening, and accompaniment for families in unconventional situations. This certainly applies to same-sex couples, but it also applies to families with LGBT members. These ideas are coming into - ["Sexuality, Gender Identity and Belief Project" (Leicester)](https://questlgbti.uk/sexuality-gender-identity-and-belief-project-leicester/) - Quest East Midlands have been doing some sterling work in dialogue with the local bishop, with some impressive fruits arising from it (for example, a diocesan Mass for LGBT Catholics, their families and friends, scheduled for October 28th). Quest members have also been busy elsewhere, working with local community groups. The city of Leicester is - [Walsingham Pilgrimage, 17-18.05 (photo report)](https://questlgbti.uk/walsingham-pilgrimage-may-17-18th/) - Photographs from the pilgrimage: Quest is organising the first LGBT-friendly pilgrimage to Walsingham, the National Shrine of Our Lady. Spiritual direction by chaplain to the retreat, Fr Kieran Fitzsimons. Please book early (now!) since places are limited. The final date for booking - 20 April. Coach from Farm Street (Mayfair, London) to Walsingham, with at least - [A Big Heart Open to God (from Quest Bulletin 68, Winter 2013/14)](https://questlgbti.uk/a-big-heart-open-to-godfrom-quest-bulletin-68-winter-201314/) - The title above is a direct quote from an exclusive interview which Pope Francis gave to Antonio Spadaro, SJ, editor in chief of La Civiltà Cattolica, the Italian Jesuit journal, and which was published in several other major Jesuit journals around the world. The following is an extract from the interview: “We need to proclaim - ["Seen and not heard" (Gospel Reflection from Quest Bulletin, Winter 2013)](https://questlgbti.uk/seen-and-not-heard-gospel-reflection-from-quest-bulletin-winter-2013/) - Grown-ups have such interesting conversations, or so I thought when I was a child. They always seemed to be such interesting conversations, especially when they were talking about an absent member of the family or the shenanigans of a neighbour. The trouble was, whenever I tried to join in the conversation or ask who it - [Should Jewish Schools be forced to be inclusive?](https://questlgbti.uk/should-jewish-schools-be-forced-to-be-inclusive/) - Speaking to the 2016 Limmud Conference, Catholic priest Fr Kieran Fitzsimons spoke of lgbt inclusion and protection, in Jewish and other faith schools - [LGBT Saints: Fr James Martin Re-affirms and Expands](https://questlgbti.uk/lgbt-saints-fr-james-martin-re-affirms-and-expands/) - A brief observation in a Facebook comments thread by Fr James attracted widespread media attention. In a follow up post this week, Fr Martin writes that he is surprised by this attention, and expanded on his argument. For LGBT Catholics, there are several points in this expanded observation that deserve comment. It's important to note, - [Reflections: “Let us utterly crush them”](https://questlgbti.uk/reflections-let-us-utterly-crush-them/) - From Quest Bulletin 77 (Lent 2017), a reflection on war and religious persecution in the Middle East: Psalm 74, from which the title of this article comes, is a hymn of lament for the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. In the fourweek cycle of the Divine Office, it appears on Tuesday of the 3rd - ["Rules for processing refugees" - a Lament](https://questlgbti.uk/rules-for-processing-refugees-a-lament/) - A lament for refugees, based on the seven acts of mercy. - [Lent: the holiness of suffering](https://questlgbti.uk/lent-the-holiness-of-suffering/) - A spiritual reflection on the meaning of suffering, by Sr Joan Chittister, OSB - ["Forgiving the Church" - Henry Nouwen quotation](https://questlgbti.uk/forgiving-the-church-henry-nouwen-quotation/) - When we have been wounded by the Church, our temptation is to reject it. But when we reject the Church it becomes very hard for us to keep in touch with the living Christ. When we say: ‘I love Jesus, but I hate the Church’, we end up losing not only the Church but Jesus - [Book Review: A Christian Epiphany over Same-Sex Marriage.](https://questlgbti.uk/book-review-a-christian-epiphany-over-same-sex-marriage/) - Review of a book in which a well-known Catholic opponent of same-sex marriage came to change his view. - [Film Review: "SILENCE".](https://questlgbti.uk/film-review-silence/) - A review of Martin Scorcese\\\'s film, Silence, about early Jesuit missionaries to Japan, published in the Jesuit magazine "Thinking Faith" - [A reflection on Rembrandt’s The Pilgrims of Emmaus](https://questlgbti.uk/a-reflection-on-rembrandts-the-pilgrims-of-emmaus/) - Jesus sits behind the table looking up in prayer while holding a loaf of bread in his hands. On his right, one of the pilgrims leans backwards with his hands folded; while on his left, the other has moved his chair away from the table and gazes with utter attention at Jesus. Behind him - [Gender Identity: Choice or Given?](https://questlgbti.uk/gender-identity-choice-or-given-2/) - In March the diocese of Shrewsbury hosted a series of talks by the German writer and sociologist, Gabriele Kuby, author of "The Global Sexual Revolution: Destruction of Freedom in the Name of Freedom". During the course of a three-day visit, Mrs Kuby (above) addressed clergy and lay people of the diocese, calling on them to - [Faith, religion and LGBT mental health problems](https://questlgbti.uk/faith-religion-and-lgbt-mental-health-problems-2/) - In 2012, a Gallup poll conducted in the United States revealed that faith, across all the major faith traditions, is associated with greater positive mental well-being. Religion and spirituality can be a source of great strength in people’s lives, instilling a sense of belonging and community and fostering a desire to improve oneself. Unfortunately, for - [MENTAL HEALTH IN LGBTQ COMMUNITIES: Building Resilience](https://questlgbti.uk/mental-health-in-lgbtq-communities-building-resilience-2/) - Four members of Quest East Midlands attended this event that was convened by Professor Julie Fish, Reader in Social Work & Health Inequalities and Director of the Centre for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans Research at De Montfort University (DMU). The event was part of De Montfort Uni’s “Pride” month that happens each February (to - [Sr Jeannine Gramick at St Bride's, Liverpool (VIDEO)](https://questlgbti.uk/sr-jeannine-gramick-at-st-brides-liverpool-video/) - Sr Jeannine Grammick, well known for her pioneering work in Catholic LGBT ministry, was the guest speaker at this year's Quest conference. Those who were there, were agreed that listening to her was a wonderful experience. After the conference, she travelled with Warren Hartley and Kieran Bohan up to Liverpool, where she spoke at the - [Why many Catholics vote ‘Yes’ for marriage equality](https://questlgbti.uk/why-many-catholics-vote-yes-for-marriage-equality/) - About 66% of Catholics voted ‘yes’ in recent polling regarding a change in the civil Marriage Act to include all Australians as equals. This is a marked difference to the official Catholic party line as spoken by most bishops. Why has this happened? Rainbow Catholics InterAgency for Ministry produced a fact sheet noting that Catholics might consider making - [Sr Jeannine Gramick: "What Can WE Do?"](https://questlgbti.uk/sr-jeannine-gramick-what-can-we-do/) - Following her formal address to conference, Sr Gramick followed up on her thoughts on how LGBT Catholics could "run with the ball" in advancing LGBT ministry and doctrines, in a formal conference Q&A, and also in a personal interview with myself (concerning a project for the European Forum of LGBT Christian Groups). One question asked - ["Act Justly, Love Mercy": Sr Jeannine Gramick on Doctrine](https://questlgbti.uk/act-justly-love-mercy-sr-jeannine-gramick-on-doctrine/) - I began yesterday, with Sr Jeannine's thoughts on how Pope Francis is directly impacting pastoral practice for LGBT Catholics. There remains the problem of the difficult Vatican doctrine, which at least on the surface, has not changed at all. To achieve the necessary change, she suggested using a football metaphor, LGBT Catholics need to "run - ["Act Justly, Love Mercy": Sr Jeannine Gramick at Quest Conference](https://questlgbti.uk/act-justly-love-mercy-sr-jeannine-gramick-at-quest-conference/) - Keynote speaker at our annual Quest conference 2017, on the theme, "Act justly, Love Mercy", was Sr Jeannine Grammick, co-founder of New Ways Ministry in the USA. Here follow some notes I made of her talk, interspersed with my personal response. Sr Jeannine began with a valuable quotation from St Theresa of Avila: "Trust God, - [The Importance of LGBT Catholics' Prophetic Role](https://questlgbti.uk/the-importance-of-lgbt-catholics-prophetic-role/) - Much has changed for LGBT Catholics since I first began this site, nearly nine years ago. In the institutional church under Pope Francis' leadership, there's been a marked shift to a more pastoral tone, to replace the harsh rhetoric under Pope Benedict XVI. At the Bishops' Synod on Marriage and Family, even some conservative bishops - [Conference 2017 "Act Justly, Love Mercy":Report](https://questlgbti.uk/conference-2017-act-justly-love-mercyreport/) - Earlier today, we left conference 2017 with joy in our hearts. In her concluding remarks at the end of the final Mass, our chair Ruby Almeida said that her observation of this year's conference was that it had been marked by a great deal of joy. My discussions with other participants over coffee, waiting for - ["Owning Our Faith" (VIDEO)](https://questlgbti.uk/owning-our-faith-video/) - [Religion and Homophobia: VIDEO](https://questlgbti.uk/religion-and-homophobia-video/) - Listen to this to this reflection by the Jesuit Institute (South Africa), released for the anniversary of the Orlando Pulse killings: - [ Return to Walsingham 2017](https://questlgbti.uk/return-to-walsingham-2017/) - We shall be returning to Walsingham this year, 6th-8th October and would be delighted if members can join us. The Shrine at Walsingham was built in 1061 as a memorial to the Annunciation, and was destroyed during the Reformation. In 1934, the restored Slipper Chapel re-opened as the RC National Shrine to our Lady and - [James Martins Building a Bridge: "Brave, Prophetic and Inspiring"](https://questlgbti.uk/james-martins-building-a-bridge-brave-prophetic-and-inspiring/) - Brave, prophetic and inspiring are among the plaudits handed out to a book that will be released soon, Building a Bridge: How the Catholic Church and the LGBT Community Can Enter into a Relationship of Respect, Compassion, and Sensitivity, written by Fr James Martin, SJ, a regular contributor to the magazine America. Fr James is - [Book Review: Conclave](https://questlgbti.uk/book-review-conclave/) - Conclave by Richard Harris. (Publisher: Hutchinson. Paperback 978-0-0919-5918-0) In a letter addressed to the Christians in the city of Corinth, written either in AD 95 or 96 and attributed to Pope St Clement I (he was Bishop of Rome from AD 92 to 101), the author rebukes them for their dissensions, outbursts of anger and - [Quest Partners With Stonewall to Counter Bullying in Catholic Schools](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-partners-with-stonewall-to-counter-bullying-in-catholic-schools/) - Catholic teaching is clear, on the importance of opposition to homophobia, in any form: It is deplorable that homosexual persons have been and are the object of violent malice in speech or in action. Such treatment deserves condemnation from the Church’s pastors wherever it occurs. (CDF) It is deeply regrettable though, that even this sentiment - [My Prayer for Pentecost by Sister Joan Chittister, OSB](https://questlgbti.uk/my-prayer-for-pentecost-by-sister-joan-chittister-osb/) - The Holy Spirit embodies the life force of the universe, the power of God, the animating energy present in all things and captured by none. On this great feast of Pentecost, the coming of the Spirit of God, I invite you to pray with me: May the Gifts of the Holy Spirit bring fire to - [Pentecost: the earthquake that shakes the human heart](https://questlgbti.uk/pentecost-the-earthquake-that-shakes-the-human-heart/) - On 22nd May 2015, people in Kent were woken at 2.52am to a sound like that of a bomb exploding, beds shaking, windows rattling and doors opening, the result of a 4.2 magnitude earthquake originating 13km off the coast, close to the town of Sandwich. The following day my sister, who lives in the county, told - [Quest Joins EU Christians at Equality March, Gdansk (Poland)](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-joins-eu-christians-at-equality-march-gdansk-poland/) - On Saturday May 27th, I was privileged to join the Gdansk "Equality March", representing Quest as part of the European Forum of Lesbian and Gay Christian Groups, meeting here for their annual conference, "Forwards in Solidarity". This experience was quite different to London's Pride Parade, in so many ways. First, it was definitely not a heavenly - [Faith in Solidarity: European Forum 2017 in Gdansk. ](https://questlgbti.uk/faith-in-solidarity-european-forum-2017-in-gdansk/) - Many people of a certain age will recall the central role of Gdansk in the story of Polish resistance to communist rule. As the birthplace of the Solidarity movement and the base of its leader, Lech Walesa, it filled our television news screens often enough throughout the 1980’s. As a gay Catholic, I am struck - [Quest in Poland for Conference of LGBT Christians](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-in-poland-for-conference-of-lgbt-christians/) - I am now in Gdansk, representing Quest for a five day annual conference of the European Forum of LGBT Christian Groups. (The main conference runs from Thursday to Sunday, with a Catholic denominational meeting tomorrow, Wednesday, making five days in all. There will also be a further meeting later, of a Catholic "working group"). Meeting here in - [James Martin SJ: "Some Catholic Saints Were 'Probably Gay' ](https://questlgbti.uk/james-martin-sj-some-catholic-saints-were-probably-gay/) - At The Advocate, Daniel Reynolds described Fr. James Martin's response to an antigay Facebook comment as "an open-minded history lesson." Fr. James Martin said some Catholic saints were "probably gay."The Jesuit priest — who was appointed in April by Pope Francis as a consultant to the Vatican's Secretariat for Communications — gave this history lesson in tolerance - [Cardinal Nichols‘Rejoices’ in LGBT Acceptance, While Still ‘Obstinate’ on Marriage – Bondings 2.0](https://questlgbti.uk/cardinal-nicholsrejoices-in-lgbt-acceptance-while-still-obstinate-on-marriage-bondings-2-0/) - From Bondings 2.0: The Catholic Herald recently reported on remarks Nichols made at a public lecture. His remarks show the two sides of his approach to matters of gay sexuality. The news story stated: “Answering questions after a talk at St Ethelburga’s Centre, London, Cardinal Nichols was asked about the Church’s response to homophobia. The - [The Animals Went in Two by Two....](https://questlgbti.uk/the-animals-went-in-two-by-two/) - From Twitter: Being gay was a sin they said pic.twitter.com/yNTs7qNLwr — Daniel Zennon (@dzennon) May 12, 2017 - [Vatican re-affirms that gay men should not be ordained](https://questlgbti.uk/vatican-re-affirms-that-gay-men-should-not-be-ordained/) - From Quest Bulletin 77 (Lent, 2017), a heart-rending plea to Pope Francis, from a gay priest: ****************************************************** An alternative title for this article could easily be: “One step forward, two steps back” for, in spite of all the laudable statements and gestures of Pope Francis concerning gay people, the Vatican, in the guise of the - [English Bishops Oppose Homophobic Bullying](https://questlgbti.uk/english-bishops-oppose-homophobic-bullying/) - English Catholic Bishops have distributed to schools, a manual on combating homophobic bullying in Catholic schools. - [Are religious people still the ‘main villains’ against LGBTI people? (Digital Pride Video)](https://questlgbti.uk/are-religious-people-still-the-main-villains-against-lgbti-people-digital-pride-video/) - One of the featured discussions for April's Digital Pride was on the topic of religion and LGBT people. Included in the panel was Martin Pendergast, well known to many of us for his heavy involvement in the Farm Street LGBT Catholic community, and his indefatigable, continuing work over many years in other capacities for LGBT - [Homophobia Kills: Catholic Schools Must Counter It.](https://questlgbti.uk/homophobia-kills-catholic-schools-must-counter-it/) - There is abundant evidence that homophobia kills, directly (as in hate crime murders) and indirectly (as in driving the victims to suicide). As with all forms of hatred, what begin as thoughtless or careless language acquired at school, can mutate into something much more serious in later life. Conversely, good habits acquired when young, can - ["Two Dirty Words" - Justin Lee on Christianity, race, LGBTs](https://questlgbti.uk/two-dirty-words-justin-lee-on-christianity-race-lgbts/) - Gay Christian Network founder Justin Lee speaks on why Christians must care about the marginalized at the 2016 GCN conference. - ["Just Because He Breathes" - GCN Video](https://questlgbti.uk/just-because-he-breathes-gcn-video/) - Rob & Linda Robertson at Gay Christian Network 2014 conference This is the brave story of a Christian couple who loved their son deeply, the only way they knew how. His coming out and subsequent death turned them into staunch advocates for the LGBTQ Community. - [A Lecture on Gender Complementarity.](https://questlgbti.uk/a-lecture-on-gender-complementarity/) - from Gay Christian Network: Dr. James Brownson, a Bible scholar and theology professor, delivers a lecture on gender complementarity and biblical interpretation at The Reformation Project. http://www.reformationproject.org As a bonus, for more scholarly work, be sure to also listen to his two-part lecture on Romans 1:24-27, here and here. For deeper insight into the issue, we highly - [Video Testimony: "Through My Eyes": True stories of young gay Christians.](https://questlgbti.uk/video-testimony-through-my-eyes-true-stories-of-young-gay-christians/) - Published by Gay Christian Network: Too often, Christian conversations about homosexuality focus on issues or politics and overlook the impact on real people. https://youtu.be/QImNx1JA3BI - ["How this Southern Baptist pastor changed his view on homosexuality" - GCN Video](https://questlgbti.uk/how-this-southern-baptist-pastor-changed-his-view-on-homosexuality-gcn-video/) - From Gay Christian Network: Rev. Danny Cortez speaks to the Gay Christian Network annual conference in January 2015. Subscribe to our channel for more great talks like this one! - [Quest Advent Retreat at St Cuthman's - reflection by Trish Fowlie](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-advent-retreat-at-st-cuthmans-reflection-by-trish-fowlie/) - On the weekend of 2nd to 4th December 2016, a small number of us gathered for a time of reflection and prayer at the quiet house near Coolham, West Sussex, named after the little known saint of Steyning, run by Arundel & Brighton Diocese. Many thanks are due to Ricky for his efficient organisation of - [The Catholic Obligation to Protect and Support LGBT Pupils](https://questlgbti.uk/the-catholic-obligation-to-protect-and-support-lgbt-pupils/) - This afternoon, I was up in London, talking to the staff of St Bonaventure's Catholic secondary school about "The Catholic Obligation to Protect and Support Lesbian and Gay Pupils". Part of the headteacher's regular program for staff continuing professional development, this will kick off the school's annual commitment to LGBT History Month. I met the - [Catholic Bishop says Mass for LGBT+ at Nottingham Cathedral](https://questlgbti.uk/catholic-bishop-says-mass-for-lgbt-at-nottingham-cathedral/) - The Right Reverend Patrick McKinney, Bishop of Nottingham said Mass for LGBT+ Catholics, their families and friends as part of the Year of Mercy which ends on 20th November. The Cathedral was filled with many members from the lgbt community who had yearned for exactly this - [Diocese of Nottingham Mass for LGBT Catholics](https://questlgbti.uk/diocese-of-nottingham-mass-for-lgbt-catholics/) - http://www.bemerciful.co.uk/be-merciful/ http://www.bemerciful.co.uk/be-merciful/ - [Catholic Teaching and Homophobia](https://questlgbti.uk/catholic-teaching-and-homophobia/) - Under a recently announced Department of Education program to combat homophobic bullying in schools, Stonewall has received funding for a project specifically aimed at LGBT-inclusivity among religious communities and in faith schools. Of particular interest, is that Stonewall will be implementing the project "in partnership with" LGBT faith groups. Speaking to Pink News after the DoE announcement, - ["Year of Mercy" Mass for LGBT Catholics - Nottingham Cathedral](https://questlgbti.uk/year-of-mercy-mass-for-lgbt-catholics-nottingham-cathedral/) - We have written before of Quest's new emphasis on engagement and advocacy work with British bishops. One of the visible fruits of this is a forthcoming Mass for LGBT Catholics, to be held in St Barnabas' Cathedral, Nottingham. Earlier this year, Ruby Almeida as Quest chair, accompanied by Claire Jenkins of the East Midlands regional group, - [Quest can be contacted by phone](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-can-be-contacted-by-phone/) - Please call us on 0300 123 1989 and leave a message for a call back. - [AGM 2016: Highlights](https://questlgbti.uk/agm-2016-highlights/) - An important part of every Quest conference is the AGM, which this year was held on the first evening of conference. Reports from our chair, treasurer and membership secretary all showed that although low in numbers, we are a vigourous, healthy organisation that is now well-placed for renewed growth. As we reported earlier, in - [Quest Conference: Day 1](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-conference-day-1/) - Conference 2016, "Feathers on the Breath of God", got off to a great start on Friday, 22nd July. We began in traditional manner - with a convivial welcome and chair's reception, followed by dinner, evening prayer and the Annual General Meeting - before removing once again to the bar for some very convivial socialising. So - [Conference 2016: First Thoughts.](https://questlgbti.uk/conference-2016-first-thoughts/) - Conference 2016, "Feathers on the Breath of God", is now over - and I'm starting to digest a wonderful weekend's experience. Most obviously, attendance numbers were down on previous years and lower than we had wanted, but that was not a serious problem in the end. It was clear that those who did attend, found - ["Four Welders and a Funeral"](https://questlgbti.uk/four-welders-and-a-funeral/) - Our after dinner speaker at conference 2016 was Mark Dowd, who shared a remarkable story of how a former lover's attempt to hide their relationship deep in the closet, years later had comic consequences. A version of this story was broadcast a few years ago on American radio. Listen here. - [Quest Convention Day 1: Evening Prayer](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-convention-day-1-evening-prayer/) - The evening prayers for the first day of Quest conference focused tightly on our conference theme, "Feathers on the Breath of God" (a quote from Hildegard von Bingen): Listen: there was once a king sitting on this throne. Around him stood great and wonderfully beautiful columns ornamented with ivory, bearing the banners of the king - [Theologian Joseph N Goh on Christianity and Sexual Diversity](https://questlgbti.uk/theologian-joseph-n-goh-on-christianity-and-sexual-diversity/) - "An exploration on Christianity, sexual diversity and sexuality by Joseph N. Goh, a priest and a scholar in gender, sexuality and theology at School of Arts and Social Sciences, Monash University, Malaysia" - [Watch: "How to Love the Sinner & Hate the Sin: 5 Easy Steps"](https://questlgbti.uk/watch-how-to-love-the-sinner-hate-the-sin-5-easy-steps/) - This poem is for all the people who've ever been made to feel like who they are is a sin or an abomination or unworthy of divine or human love. I love you. God loves you. Your sexuality is a gift, not a curse. Let's change the story. -Emily Joy, youtube - [Church News (Bulletin 75)](https://questlgbti.uk/church-news/) - After the Synod - A Gentler Tone? German and English bishops offer apologies to gay Catholics. The most notable example of a softer tone came during the synod assembly, when the entire German language small group agreed on a statement of apology to gay Catholics and to other groups, for the hurt that has been - [Book Review: 'And God saw it all was very good' (Bulletin 75)](https://questlgbti.uk/book-review-and-god-saw-it-all-was-very-good/) - Quest Bulletin Book Review; January 2016; ‘And God saw it all was very good’; Book Editors: Sandra Taylor and Hazel Barnes; Arcus Foundation, Amsterdam, 2015. Book review by Tony Dimambro The European Forum of LGBT Christian Groups has worked wonders since its birth in 1982. The forum provides a spiritual space for LGBT Christians to - [Reflection: "I Know That I Can Make It" (Bulletin 75)](https://questlgbti.uk/reflection-i-know-that-i-can-make-it/) - A Letter of Transsexual Grief I am sending this to a group of people who have been significant in my recent life, many close friends and some who are not so close but whose friendship/kind acts I appreciate. On Friday 6th November in the evening whilst with Sharon on retreat centre in North Wales I - [LGBT Lives: John McNeill, R.I.P. (Bulletin 75)](https://questlgbti.uk/lgbt-lives-john-mcneill-r-i-p/) - John McNeill S.J. is a towering figure in our history for LGBT Christians of all denominations. His groundbreaking book “The Church and the Homosexual”, was an early landmark in gay theology, but although it was originally published with the approval and backing of his Jesuit superiors, under pressure from the Vatican, it eventually led to - [Global Network of Rainbow Catholics (Bulletin 75)](https://questlgbti.uk/global-network-of-rainbow-catholics/) - GNRC Launch in Rome: Quest Was There Early October saw the launch in Rome of the “Global Network of Rainbow Catholics”, over the weekend immediately before the opening of the Bishops’ Synod Assembly on Marriage and Family. Four members of our committee attended, and played prominent parts in the proceedings. Our chair, Ruby Almeida, was - [Family Synod 2015 (Bulletin 75)](https://questlgbti.uk/family-synod-2015/) - So - what did the Synod Assembly mean for LGBT Catholics? The final document contained almost nothing referring to gay and lesbian people, and certainly changed nothing in existing teaching on the subject. Some saw this as a major disappointment: Dignity USA for example, responded with the views that it simply reinforced the status quo. - [An Introduction to Transgender People](https://questlgbti.uk/an-introduction-to-transgender-people/) - There are 1.4 million transgender people in the United States. This video introduces you to a few of them. - [Quest's Productive Working Weekend](https://questlgbti.uk/quests-productive-working-weekend/) - Members of Quest national committee, regional convenors and a few former committee members gathered at Nick and Gez's home in West Yorkshire for a for a strategic planning working weekend. The setting and hospitality were superb, good work was done, and constructive deliberations followed. For much of its history, Quest's primary activities and focus have been looking - [Quest Chair Now Co-Chair of Global Network!](https://questlgbti.uk/44041-2/) - Last year in Rome at the foundation conference of the Global Network of Rainbow Catholics, our Quest chair Ruby Almeida was elected to the steering committee of the new body. It's just been announced that the steering committee has named her as co-chair, alongside a German, Michael Brinkschroder. This is a an impressive achievement by - [Embracing Sexuality and Spirituality](https://questlgbti.uk/embracing-sexuality-and-spirituality/) - For Quest's conference 2016, "Feathers on the Breath of God", we will be investigating gender, sexuality and spirituality. The keynote speakers will be looking particularly at issues of gender, but there will also be a workshop on sexuality and spirituality - topics which are too easily assumed to be in conflict for LGBT people. In - [Meditation - Loving Kindness](https://questlgbti.uk/meditation-loving-kindness/) - Close your eyes. Imagine an emotion that makes you feel good. It can be love or kindness or compassion or gratitude or all of these emotions. Allow this emotion or combination of emotions to radiate out from inside you. This is what it feels like to be free of fear, anger, hatred and resentment. This - [Parable of the Gay Samaritan](https://questlgbti.uk/parable-of-the-gay-samaritan/) - The familiar parable of the Good Samaritan, retold in a contemporary setting, with the role of "Samaritan" becoming "a gay man" - [The Papal Apology, in Context](https://questlgbti.uk/the-papal-apology-in-context/) - Pope Francis\\\' apology to gay people was just the latest in a series of apologies, by Catholic and Protestant Church leaders. More will follow. - [The Papal Apology: Keep the Conversation Going. (Opinion)](https://questlgbti.uk/the-papal-apology-keep-the-conversation-going-opinion/) - Pope Francis\\\' apology to gay people is welcome, but did not go far enough. However, it has opened up a much needed conversation. LGBT people must keep it going. - [A Papal Apology: How Should Quest Respond (Opinion)](https://questlgbti.uk/a-papal-apology-how-should-quest-respond-opinion/) - Pope Francis has apologised to gay Catholics for the past harm done to them by the Church. LGBT Catholics should welcome this important statement. - [Pope Francis' Apology to Gay People](https://questlgbti.uk/pope-francis-apology-to-gay-people/) - I've been expecting this for some time - I just didn't think it would come quite so quickly, even though it is desperately overdue. Pope Francis: Catholic Church should apologize to gay people and others it has marginalized Pope Francis says gays — and all the other people the church has marginalized, such as the - [A Catholic Obligation for a Gay Apology?](https://questlgbti.uk/a-catholic-obligation-for-a-gay-apology/) - A notable and extremely welcome feature of last year's family synod was the apology offered by the entire German speaking bishops' small group to the gay and lesbian community, for the harm done to them by the church. That call was later repeated by Bishop Doyle of Northampton, on his return to the UK. Now, - ["The Problem of Heterosexuality in a Homophobic Society "(Lecture by Prof Anderson – VIDEO)](https://questlgbti.uk/the-problem-of-heterosexuality-in-a-homophobic-society-lecture-by-prof-anderson-video/) - [Watch: Matthew Vines, “God and the Gay Christian” [VIDEO]](https://questlgbti.uk/watch-matthew-vines-god-and-the-gay-christian-video/) - [“What’s Morally Wrong With Homosexuality?” (VIDEO – John Corvino)](https://questlgbti.uk/whats-morally-wrong-with-homosexuality-video-john-corvino/) - Dr. John Corvino is Chair of the Philosophy Department at Wayne State University in Detroit, specialising in ethics and the philosophy of religion. He is the co-author (with Maggie Gallagher) of Debating Same-Sex Marriage and the author of What’s Wrong with Homosexuality? You might also like: So God Made a Gay Man (Video) Kids Explain Gay Marriage? - ["Who Are We to Judge? Part 1" Ignatian News [VIDEO]](https://questlgbti.uk/who-are-we-to-judge-part-1-ignatian-news-video/) - ["Who Are We to Judge? Episode 2" Ignatian News Network [VIDEO]](https://questlgbti.uk/who-are-we-to-judge-episode-2-ignatian-news-network-video/) - ["Who Are We to Judge? Episode 3" Ignatian News Network [VIDEO]](https://questlgbti.uk/who-are-we-to-judge-episode-3-ignatian-news-network-video/) - [On Film, Gay Catholics Ask Pope Francis, "Accept Us" (VIDEO)](https://questlgbti.uk/on-film-gay-catholics-ask-pope-francis-accept-us-video/) - From Gay Star News: Gay Catholics call on Pope Francis to accept them in moving film A heartwarming film released today (10 March) aims to achieve full acceptance of LGBTI persons in the Catholic Church. It has already reached thousands of people and aims to be seen by Pope Francis and the Vatican clergy. The - [Sr Jeannine Gramick: "Own Your Faith" (VIDEO)](https://questlgbti.uk/sr-jeannine-gramick-own-your-faith-video/) - [Catholic Teaching and Homosexuality: Introduction](https://questlgbti.uk/catholic-teaching-and-homosexuality-introduction/) - Most people think they know what the Catholic Church teaches about homosexuality, which can be simply summed up as "don't do it". That much is true - just as the Church also says "don't do it" to married heterosexual couples who want to use contraception, or to unmarried couples, or to single people who want - [What Quest Does - and Aims to Do.](https://questlgbti.uk/what-quest-does-and-aims-to-do/) - Reflecting on the problem of religious homophobia a few days ago, I out the question, "How should Quest respond?". I and the rest of the Quest national committee been giving a lot of thought to the core nature of our purpose and activities, as we prepare for a "strategy weekend" at the end of the month, at - [Religious Homophobia: How Should Quest Respond?](https://questlgbti.uk/religious-homophobia-how-should-quest-respond/) - In the days immediately after the news broke of the Orlando gay nightclub massacre, I noted at Queering the Church that the responses by Catholic bishops, and even by Pope Francis, did not include any recognition that this was not just a crime of violence by an Islamist jihadist, but was specifically targeted at gay - [Orlando: Religion and Homophobia](https://questlgbti.uk/orlando-religion-and-homophobia/) - Consider the facts: The killer in Orlando was a Muslim, and his target was gay men. It's been reported that he had recently been "angered" by the sight of two men kissing. Across the country, another man was arrested on his way to a gay pride parade, armed with an alarming cache of weapons. He - [3 LGBT Groups Invited to Major German Catholic Gathering.](https://questlgbti.uk/3-lgbt-groups-invited-to-major-german-catholic-gathering/) - In Germany today, Catholics gathered in Leipzig for the start of a three-day major event, the "Catholic Conference Day", which has been held every two years since 1848 (except for an interruption during the National Socialist period). With over 1000 different exhibitions and events, some 30 000 visitors are expected. Organized by the Central Committee of - [Gender Paranoia - and Gender Facts](https://questlgbti.uk/gender-paranoia-and-gender-facts/) - In Washington D.C. for a National Prayer Breakfast, Cardinal Robert Sarah has described gay marriage as "poison" and attacked transgender rights as a form of ideological colonialism. “[T]hrough a demonic ‘gender ideology,’ a deadly impulse that is being experienced in a world increasingly cut off from God through ideological colonialism.” Cardinal Sarah, is an African, - [Chair's Report, May 2016](https://questlgbti.uk/chairs-report-may-2016/) - Report to the Quest National Committee by our chair, Ruby Almeida, at the committee meeting held May 14th 2016: Amoris Laetitia The much anticipated Apostolic Exhortation from Pope Francis, Amoris Laetitia (Joy of Love), created a flurry of responses from numerous Catholic and secular organisations. Many were negative about the lack of reference to LGBT - [Conference 2016: "Feathers on the Breath of God"](https://questlgbti.uk/conference-2016-booking-open-get-your-early-bird-discount/) - Booking is now open for conference 2016. The theme this year, under the title "Feathers on the Breath of God" (from a phrase used by Hildegard of Bingen) will be looking at the complexities of personhood, sexuality and gender: “Listen: there was once a king sitting on his throne. Around Him stood great and wonderfully beautiful columns - [Stonewall School Role Models visit](https://questlgbti.uk/stonewall-school-role-models-visit/) - The weather in London was horrid all day but the four hour drive to Preston was met with clear, blue skies and sunshine. I was on a Stonewall Schools Role Model visit to Brownedge St. Mary’s School and it was a wonderful and inspiring occasion for so many reasons. I - [Downtime is up!](https://questlgbti.uk/downtime-is-up/) - Apologies to anyone who had trouble accessing the website in the past couple of days. There were some gremlins afoot. - [A Quest Response to “Amoris Laetitia”](https://questlgbti.uk/a-quest-response-to-amoris-laetitia/) - In attempting to craft his Apostolic Exhortation, Pope Francis was faced with impossibly conflicting demands: intense pressure from the reformists to introduce changes to pastoral practice (if not actual doctrine) on some hot-button topics, competing with equally intense pressure from the conservative side to reaffirm both doctrine and the rules on pastoral practice. We should - [Conference 2015: First Impressions (Terry Weldon)](https://questlgbti.uk/conference-2015-first-impressions-terry-weldon/) - Once again, I thoroughly enjoyed our annual conference, "The Bible: Friend or Foe?". I was stimulated by our keynote speaker, Keith Sharpe's thoughts on the Bible and LGBT people, and moved by the personal testimony of out other guest speaker, Ruth Sharpe, chief executive of Stonewall, and her challenges in coming out as Catholic. I - [Conference First Impressions: Claire and Paschal](https://questlgbti.uk/conference-first-impressions-claire-and-paschal/) - One of the many delights about attending the annual Quest Conference, in addition to catching up with old friends, is the pleasure of meeting newcomers. They are a gift to us, not only because they enrich us with their life stories and witness, but they also validate Quest’s very existence. So, meet “newbies” Claire and - [What is the "Formation of Conscience?"](https://questlgbti.uk/what-is-the-formation-of-conscience/) - Papal theologian: ""Conscience is the act of practical reason" Gay and lesbian Catholics who disagree with Church teaching on sexuality know that the best defence against our critics is the primacy of conscience, which is well established in Catholic doctrine. It's also a theme which had renewed attention during the recent Synod of Bishops' assembly - [Keith Sharpe: "The Bible - Friend or Foe?"](https://questlgbti.uk/conference-report-2015-the-bible-friend-or-foe/) - Our second speaker, Keith Sharpe, is best known for “The Gay Gospels” (2010) and his two-session address was entitled “The Bible Friend or Foe?” It allowed him a neat opportunity to divide his contributions between attempting to counteract the socalled biblical “clobber texts” and then offer the Bible as a positive, “queer-friendly tool” for the - [Has the Synod "Opened a Door" to LGBT Inclusion?](https://questlgbti.uk/has-the-synod-opened-a-door-to-lgbt-inclusion/) - The Bishops' Synod three week assembly on marriage and family has now concluded. It's now two years since the process began, and it's not over yet. (We still must wait for Pope Francis' response, which will be published as an Apostolic Exhortation). Meanwhile, LGBT opinion on the results of the assembly and its implications for - [Drawn to your faith?](https://questlgbti.uk/drawn-to-your-faith/) - Landings ­ Are you looking to reconnect with your faith? If you have been thinking about becoming more active in the Catholic Church after a time away, we invite you to join us in LANDINGS, an eight­ week experience that offers “a safe place to land,” a place where your voice will be heard and - [Quest @ Greenbelt 2015, day 2](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-greenbelt-2015-day-2/) - My first day of duty on the OuterSpace stand, from 4pm to 6pm. Domestic chores kept me away from the Greenbelt site in the morning which meant that I missed that Giles Fraser’s talk entitled On Helplessness. My stint on the stand also meant that for a second time in the space of a month - [Quest at Greenbelt 2015](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-at-greenbelt-2015/) - First impressions: cars, cars towing caravans, motor-homes, minibuses all driving across a potholed track on the Boughton House estate near Kettering in Northamptonshire heading for the huge car parks designated as long-stay, disabled, day parking. Next, a vision of tents by the thousands, row upon row, stretching far across the fields to my left, a - [Expanding LGBT Ministry Across Westminster - And Beyond!](https://questlgbti.uk/expanding-lgbt-ministry-across-westminster-and-beyond/) - Cardinal Vincent Nichols has urged that the successful model of the Farm Street Masses specifically welcoming LGBTI Catholics be "rolled out" across his Westminster archdiocese, and indeed across "the nation" (in Catholic Church terms, that rather oddly means "England and Wales". Scotland has a completely independent bishops' conference, and Northern Ireland falls under the Primate - [Gay and Catholic? You are joking!!](https://questlgbti.uk/gay-and-catholic-you-are-joking/) - Being gay or lesbian in Uganda is an abomination and a curse in the eyes of religious, culturists and or traditionalists. It is equally worse if it is the view of the Roman Catholic Church in Uganda, just like other faithbased institutions. Roman Catholic Bishops and priests have spat venom regarding the issue of homosexuality - [Uganda: Coming out . . .](https://questlgbti.uk/uganda-coming-out/) - This is my story, a personal inspiration, don’t judge me for it isn’t my fault, neither is it the fault of my parents but the fault of nature. The commands of nature dictated, “Let there be love and there I appeared.” My name is Stellamaris, the sea star. My one and only, best of them - [Sorry, what did you just say?](https://questlgbti.uk/sorry-what-did-you-just-say/) - There’s none so deaf as those that will not hear. None so blind as those that will not see. (Matthew Henry, 1662- 1714) My father had a hearing problem caused by having served in the Royal Navy before the Second World War as a gunner. The stories he told of trying to move around the - [3 Poems](https://questlgbti.uk/3-poems/) - Mum, I kissed a man Mum, I kissed a man, His lips were my favourite meal I stayed calm not to squeal His breath was all the dew on daffodils Petals fell from his face His smile was worth an Oscar The sun rose in his tone, Our moustaches played with each other Mum, I - [Rejoicing in the embrace of God](https://questlgbti.uk/rejoicing-in-the-embrace-of-god/) - A way in which the soul knows that God is within it is by an embrace which God bestows upon the soul. Never has a mother embraced her son with such love, nor can anyone else on this earth be imagined who embraces with a love that nears the indescribable love with which God embraces - [Another one bites the dust](https://questlgbti.uk/another-one-bites-the-dust/) - “To lose one parent may be regarded as a misfortune… To lose both seems like carelessness” (Lady Bracknell to Mr Jack Worthing in Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest). It was with a degree of trepidation that I announced to members of the National Committee of Quest gathered in London for their January meeting - ["Following Faithfully: The Catholic way to choose the good"](https://questlgbti.uk/following-faithfully-the-catholic-way-to-choose-the-good/) - After much free and honest talk—what Pope Francis in his final address to the Synod on the Family last October praised as “a spirit of collegiality and synodality”— and the revelation of significant divisions among the world’s bishops, we now await the ongoing discussions in preparation for the second session of the Synod on the - [A Patron Saint for Quest?](https://questlgbti.uk/a-patron-saint-for-quest/) - Terry Weldon writes: After the Gala Dinner at Quest Conference 2013 (Chichester), I delivered a short talk on Queer Saints and Martyrs in Church History. As a after - dinner address, I tried to keep it light - hearted, pointing in particular to some of the oddities and fun bits in the history. There was, - [LGBT Catholics and "Catholic Teaching"](https://questlgbti.uk/lgbt-catholics-and-catholic-teaching/) - The difficulty with what is frequently described as "Catholic teaching" as it affects lesbian and gay people, is that what is popularly presented and widely known, is extremely selective, and viewed exclusively in the context of genital acts. The full teaching however, is more complex. It is well known that it is dangerous to quote isolated - [Family Synod Working Document Disappoints Global Rainbow Catholics](https://questlgbti.uk/family-synod-working-document-disappoints-global-rainbow-catholics/) - The Global Network of Rainbow Catholics, an international coalition (including Quest) that will be meeting in Rome at the start of the 2015 family synod, has expressed disappointment with the synod "Lineamenta" (or working document), that was released yesterday. LGBT Catholics Find Little Encouragement in Family Synod Document The “working document,” released today, that will guide - [A good friend of ours](https://questlgbti.uk/a-good-friend-of-ours/) - Timothy Radcliffe, head of the Dominican Order and a professor of theology at Oxford and author of many books including 'What Is the Point of Being A Christian?' has been chosen by Pope Francis as consultor to the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. He is a much loved friend of Quest and been a speaker - [Gay Catholics look forward to Mass celebrated by Cardinal Nichols](https://questlgbti.uk/gay-catholics-look-forward-to-mass-celebrated-by-cardinal-nichols/) - This is not the first time that Cardinal Nichols has met with the LGBT Catholics Westminster Pastoral Council at Farm Street. None-the-less, it is the first time that it has been publicly announced and so is seen as an important occasion. The Cardinal will preside over the 6.15 Mass at Farm Street on May 10th. - [Discernment by Pope Francis](https://questlgbti.uk/discernment-by-pope-francis/) - Pope Francis, right, meets with a delegation of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious at the Vatican. Credit Pool photo by L'Osservatore Romano The Vatican’s misguided investigation of American Catholic nuns seemed thoroughly steeped in chauvinism from its inception three years ago by the church’s male-dominated bureaucracy. Rome’s move against widely respected churchwomen was puzzling - [Lest we Forget](https://questlgbti.uk/lest-we-forget/) - Pope Francis decries the persecution of Christians Whilst the commercialisation of Easter continues unabated and people enjoy the excesses of the holidays, many Christians around the world are suffering persecution and death for their faith in Syria, Iraq, Nigeria, Kenya and Pakistan. Pope Francis speaks out against their persecution asking us to not ignore their plight - [So Glad to be Back!](https://questlgbti.uk/so-glad-to-be-back/) - Image courtesy of Boians Cho Joo Young at FreeDigitalPhotos.net Apologies for the delay in getting back on line. It was due to archetypal problems that were slightly out of our control, combined with the long holiday weekend. Thank you for your patience - [Quest meets His Eminence Vincent Nichols](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-meets-his-eminence-vincent-nichols/) - Quest Chair Ruby Almeida and Deputy Chair Nick Burchnall met with Cardinal Vincent Nichols at Archbishop's House on Friday 20th March 2015. This was a planned return visit with His Eminence to discuss, amongst other things, the Icon Of Emmaus which was presented at the Quest Conference in Scarborough in July 2014. The meeting was - [Quest Conference Talks: Pádraig Ó Tuama](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-conference-talks-padraig-o-tuama/) - I stayed here for your AGM last night. I don’t know if I’ve ever stayed intentionally for a group’s AGM. They’re not things that I’m overly fond of. But I was moved last night listening to your stories, because what struck me was that you’re particularly attuned and aware to the possibility of marginalisation, and the possibility of isolation that people have, and that the concerns - [Did you hear . . . Gossip is good for you - Benedict Luckhurst](https://questlgbti.uk/did-you-hear-gossip-is-good-for-you-benedict-luckhurst/) - According to new research carried out by the universities of Manchester, Glasgow and the West of Scotland gossip is good for our reputation because it shows we are in the know and we most enjoy dishing the dirt about familiar people - the more damaging the better. Psychologists say that at the same time it improves our social standing as a - [The Value of Marriage: Tobias and Sarah (Tobit 8: 4 - 8)](https://questlgbti.uk/the-value-of-marriage-tobias-and-sarah-tobit-8-4-8/) - As part of the preparation for the next phase of the Synod on Marriage and Family, the bishops left Rome after the first phase last October, with the instruction to hear more from their people about their actual experience of family and marriage. In the UK, the bishops of England and Wales have chosen to - [Conscience: The Catholic Way to Choose the Good.](https://questlgbti.uk/conscience-the-catholic-way-to-choose-the-good/) - For lgbt Catholics, and many other Christians, one of the most pressing and agonising dilemmas they face, is that of reconciling what they know to be the truth of their sexuality or gender identity, and church teaching. For Catholics in particular, the top - line response should be easy - "Follow your conscience". The primacy - [Gay Cures: “An abuse” say healthcare professionals](https://questlgbti.uk/gay-cures-an-abuse-say-healthcare-professionals/) - Leading psychiatrists have united to condemn so-called “gay cure” therapies as an “abuse” of patients which is neither ethically nor scientifically sound. A consensus statement undersigned by professional bodies including the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the British Psychological Society and the UK Council for Psychotherapy said that practitioners who offered “cures” and “treatments” for homosexuality were causing harm to their patients. In a statement requested by - [2014 Conference Talks: Fr Peter McVerry](https://questlgbti.uk/fr-peter-mcverry/) - A sea-change? Is Pope Francis ushering in a sea-change in the Catholic Church? I believe he is. The sea change is in our understanding of who God is and what God wants. Everywhere Jesus went, he was followed by large crowds. Five thousand people, not counting women and children, listened to him all day long, even forgetting that they were hungry,(Luke 9:10-17). Every town - ["The Body of Christ": Sebastian Moore OSB (Book Review)](https://questlgbti.uk/the-body-of-christ-sebastian-moore-osb-book-review/) - The Body of Christ: The Shudder Of Blissful Truth (Sebastian Moore OSB, with Kate Wilson) Darton, Longman and Todd 978-0-23252-857-2 When it comes to allotting a deadline for the submission of book reviews, the editor of this august journal is always very generous. However, not even the most generous deadline and careful reading could produce a review worthy of this book. This is - ["Scent of a Woman"](https://questlgbti.uk/scent-of-a-woman-2/) - We begin Lent on Wednesday 13th February (Editor: that was the case, then. This year, we begin on Feb 18th). The liturgy of the day presents us with a proposal that is simple, direct and personal, as it needs to penetrate the many habits and convictions in that jungle of defences and mistrust which, consciously or unconsciously, we construct: “Repent, and believe in the Gospel.” - [New "Members Area".](https://questlgbti.uk/new-members-are-for-restricted-content/) - This site is public, and open to all. However, your committee has often noted that there is a need to offer members some tangible benefits not available to others, and at times we want to publish confidential or sensitive material which should be available only to members. (Examples are the summaries of committee meetings, which - [A Question of Morality](https://questlgbti.uk/a-question-of-morality/) - As year succeeds to year, I become more determined to resist all attempts from within and outside the Church to reduce Catholic teaching to an emphasis on morality, and thus limit fundamental religious questions to issues such as abortion, divorce, contraception, and homosexuality. The questions that every living human person represents are primary. Why am I here? Do I matter? Why do I get up each morning? - [Cardinal Marx Admits: Theology of Marriage Is Not Complete!](https://questlgbti.uk/cardinal-marx-admits-theology-of-marriage-is-not-complete/) - The Family Synod in Rome last October created some excitement about the possibility of a new, more pastorally sensitive approach to gay and lesbian Catholics by the Catholic Church. That gathering, however, was no more than a first step - a preparatory exercise, before the main synod later this year. But even that will not - [Not in front of the children](https://questlgbti.uk/not-in-front-of-the-children/) - The following question was posed by Ron and Mavis Pirola, codirectors of the Australian Catholic Marriage and Family Council, during last October’s Extraordinary Synod on the Family: "How should Catholic parents respond when planning a Christmas family gathering with grandchildren present, and they are asked by their son, who is in a same-sex relationship, if he can attend with his partner?" The couple for whom - [Why Do LGBT People Feel the Catholic Church Hates Them?](https://questlgbti.uk/why-do-lgbt-people-feel-the-catholic-church-hates-them/) - In an article published last May in the magazine America, the national Catholic weekly published by the Jesuits in the United States, Fr James Martin SJ the magazine’s editor at large, contributed the following article under the title "Simply Loving." Everybody knows that same-sex marriage and homosexual acts are contrary to Catholic moral teaching. Yet that same teaching also says that gay and lesbian people must be - [Catholic deacon’s love for his trans child](https://questlgbti.uk/catholic-deacons-love-for-his-trans-child/) - Deacon Ray Dever of St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Tampa, Florida, writing as guest blogger for the New Ways Ministry blog, refers to the time his daughter came out as trans and what that meant for his faith and his community. He wrote: “Our journey has probably not been very different than the journey of any family with an LGBTQ child. It - [The fifteen “diseases” of the Roman Curia](https://questlgbti.uk/the-fifteen-diseases-of-the-roman-curia/) - In his presentation of Christmas greetings to the Roman Curia, Pope Francis identified fifteen “diseases”, “malfunctions” and “infirmities” to which the Curia, like any human body, is exposed. “They are the more common diseases in our life in the Curia. They are diseases and temptations which weaken our service to the Lord.” The diseases identified are as follows: 1. The disease - [Labelling under a misapprehension](https://questlgbti.uk/labelling-under-a-misapprehension/) - The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) begins with the uplifting words, “The desire for God is written in the human heart, because man is created by God and for God, and God never ceases to draw man to himself” (27). It goes on to address the reasons why “this ‘intimate and vital bond of man to God’ can be - [Son, I’ll Always Love You Whether You’re Straight Or A Closeted Gay](https://questlgbti.uk/son-ill-always-love-you-whether-youre-straight-or-a-closeted-gay/) - There’s something I want to tell you, son. You don’t have to say anything. I just want you to listen for a second, okay? I want you to know that you are the most important person in the world to me and that I will always be there for you. Because I’m your dad, and I’m always going to be. - [Book Review: The Book of Forgiving](https://questlgbti.uk/book-review-the-book-of-forgiving/) - The Book of Forgiving: The fourfold path of healing for ourselves and our world, Desmond and Mpho Tutu Harper Collins 978-0-06220-356-4 Over many decades, the Anglican Archbishop-emeritus of Cape Town, Desmond Tutu, has been a tireless campaigner for peace, justice and reconciliation; most notably in his homeland of South Africa both in the pre- and post-apartheid years. In 1984 he was awarded the Nobel - [Trans Suicide: An Epiphany Reflection](https://questlgbti.uk/trans-suicide-an-epiphany-reflection/) - In my school RE classes, I was taught that suicide is the one unforgiveable sin. So what are we to make of the social prejudices, discrimination, and even Church teaching or practice, that drive people to take their own lives? At Bondings 2.0, Bob Shine has a reflection on one such trans suicide that has - [Frank DeBenardo, on Bishop's Call for Same - Sex Recognition, Blessings.](https://questlgbti.uk/frank-debenardo-on-bishops-call-for-same-sex-recognition-blessings/) - At Bondings 2.0, Frank DeBenardo has written about the call by a Belgian bishop for the Church to bless same - sex couples: Belgian Bishop’s Call to Bless Gay & Lesbian Couples Elicits Positive Feedback Response to Bishop Johan Bonny’s historic call for the Catholic Church to recognize and bless the committed relationships of lesbian and gay ## Pages - [About Quest](https://questlgbti.uk/) - Quest offers fellowship to LGBT+ Catholics by providing information on this website and through our member bulletin and social media. We also run an annual conference on topics relating to our experience as LGBT+ Catholics (for information about past conferences click here. And throughout the year we have opportunities for worship, spiritual retreats and supportive community - [Quest Conference booking form](https://questlgbti.uk/questconferencebookingform/) - If you can't make the conference and/or you want to hear about future conferences, retreats and events then join our events mailing list.  - [Diocesan Support for LGBT+ Catholics](https://questlgbti.uk/diocesan-lbgt-support/) - The Social Welfare Commission for the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales as far back as 1979 noted that a LGBT+ Catholics we: have a right to enlightened and effective pastoral care with pastoral ministers who are properly trained to meet [our] pastoral needs and have the same need for the Sacraments as the heterosexual. - [About Quest](https://questlgbti.uk/about-quest-with-news/) - Latest News: Quest Pilgrims in Rome Quest joined over 1200 other LGBT+ Catholics, their families and friend in Rome, 5th & 6th Sept' for a special pilgrimage as part of the Year of Jubilee - Pilgrims of Hope. Organised by Italian LGBTQ Catholic group La Tenda di Gionata, in partnership with the GNRC and Outreach - [Committee](https://questlgbti.uk/about/trustees/) - Here are the current people with dedicated roles within Quest. Their email addresses are underneath and you can click on their name to go to their page. Trustees/Quest Committee Chair - Gerard Swan chair@questlgbti.uk Deputy Chair - Greg Thornton deputy.chair@questlgbti.uk Secretary - Thomas Bartsch secretary@questlgbti.uk Committee Member - Ugwunna Elekwachi Other Post Holders Treasurer treasurer@questlgbti.uk - [LGBT+ Groups & Resources](https://questlgbti.uk/links/) - LGBT+ Catholics Groups Global Network of Rainbow Catholics LGBT Catholics Westminster (London) New Ways Ministry and their blog Bondings 2.0 Dignity (USA) Drachma (Malta) Drachma Parents Group Fortunate Families (Family and friends, USA) Acceptance (Sydney, Australia) Vine & Fig An Affirming Space for Queer Catholics Other Christian LGBT+ Groups European Forum of Lesbian, Gay and - [Our Regional Groups](https://questlgbti.uk/regional-groups/) - Quest has a network of regional groups that offer fellowship and opportunities to gather. Our groups are shaped by our constitutional purpose, with each group having its own flavour and annual calendar of events. Members of Quest have the opportunity to sign up to one group (or not) when they join. They can at any - [More About Quest](https://questlgbti.uk/about/more-about-quest/) - Our charitable purpose as defined in our constitution is “To proclaim the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ for the advancement of the Christian religion amongst LGBT+ Catholics”. So we aim to: Bring good news by bearing witness to the reality of our lives as LGBT+ Catholics and providing information about LGBT+ related issues and - [Privacy Notice & Our Use of Cookies](https://questlgbti.uk/privacy-notice/) - Quest Privacy Notice: Quest takes your privacy seriously and will only use personal information to contact you concerning your membership. This may include nomination forms and papers for the Annual General Meeting, sending you the Quest Bulletin and other important notices. We will never pass your details to other organisations, companies or individuals without your - [Contact Us](https://questlgbti.uk/contact-us-page/) - If you want to find out more how about Quest, our regional group network and whether what we do might be for you on your journey of faith; and your questions aren’t answered by the website then you can contact us: Click here to send us an email. For enquiries about regional groups click here. - [Previous Quest Conferences](https://questlgbti.uk/about/our-past-conferences/) - If you want to hear about future conferences, retreats and events then join our events mailing list. Past Conferences 1982 Leicester: ‘Faith, hope and love’, Fr Kevin McDonald, Oscott 1983 York: ‘God, my neighbour and myself’, Dr Owen Dudley Edwards, Edinburgh University 1984 Birmingham: ‘For the love of God’, Brian Doyle, CM, Damascus House, London - [Profiles - Archivist - Gerard](https://questlgbti.uk/about/trustees/profiles-gerard/) - Gerard Swan - Chair A member since about 1996 I found a home for my spirituality and sexuality in Quest. Inspired by the passion and involvement of members at the 1998 conference (my first), at which the basis of the current constitution was vigorously discussed and later adopted by the membership, I have been an active - [Committee profiles - Chair - Greg](https://questlgbti.uk/about/trustees/committee-profiles-chair-greg/) - Greg Thornton - Deputy Chair I have been involved with Quest since the mid 1990s, attending my first conference in 1996. It was through that conference that a small group of local LGBT Catholics met and the Quest in the Midlands group began. I’ve been an active member of the group since then, and in - [Committee profiles - Secretary - Thomas](https://questlgbti.uk/about/trustees/committee-profiles-thomas-bartsch/) - "I grew up as a Catholic in Germany. My faith has always been important to me; I've always tried to let it shape my life. I moved to England in 2006, when I started as a Lecturer in Applied Mathematics at Loughborough University. I joined Quest in the Midlands in 2007. I was (and am) - [Books: LGBT+ Spirituality ???](https://questlgbti.uk/books-spirituality/) - Boisvert, Donald: Sanctity and Male Desire: A Gay Reading of Saints Boisvert, Donald: Out on Holy Ground: Meditations on Gay Men's Spirituality Cotter, Jim Pleasure, Pain and Passion: Some Perspectives on Sexuality and Spirituality De La Torre, Miguel A., editor. Out of the Shadows, Into the Light: Christianity and Homosexuality Duncan, Geoffrey. Courage to Love: Liturgies - [Catholic Teaching and Homosexuality ????](https://questlgbti.uk/catholic-teaching-and-homosexuality/) - Most people think they know what the Catholic Church teaches about homosexuality, which can be simply summed up as "don't do it". That much is true - just as the Church also says "don't do it" to married heterosexual couples who want to use contraception, or to unmarried couples, or to single people who want - [Quest Digest](https://questlgbti.uk/quest-digest/) - Quest Produced a number of Digest's between 2001 and 2006, a compilation of more extensive articles, studies and talks given at our Conferences. Still of relevance today in the ongoing debates and understanding of gender identity, sexual orientation and faith, there were five in total, four of which are made available here for download: Issue - [A "Theology of Joy"](https://questlgbti.uk/a-theology-of-joy/) - Introduction: The subject of this document, A Theology of Joy, has its roots in the Quest Strategy Weekend held at St Aidan’s Mission, Wainstalls, Halifax in June 2016. This document was presented to, and received by, the Quest National Committee at its meeting in London on Saturday 30th September 2017 and it is made available - ["Icon of Emmaus"](https://questlgbti.uk/icon-of-emmaus-workshop-conference-2014/) - A feature of our Conference in 2014 was a workshop on the Icon of Emmaus from which we promised an outcome report that would be made available to the membership. This is that report, now shared publicly as a PDF and an eBook. A PDF is available for download here An EPUB is available for - [Gay Catholics in Britain 1973 - 83](https://questlgbti.uk/gay-catholics-in-britain-1973-83/) - Published in 1983 this important work by Michael Stephens tells the origin story of Quest. Michael was the Chair of Quest from 1975 to 1978 and again from 1979 to 1983. The Foreword is by Rev Michael Hollings. A PDF scan of the original is available for download here A PDF of a transcribed version is - [2022 Quest's Synod Submission to the Vatican](https://questlgbti.uk/2022-synod-submission/) - In May 2022 as part of the local phase of the three year Synod journey called by Pope Francis, Quest made a submission directly to the Vatican. The submission can be downloaded here. - [Sources of Helpline Support](https://questlgbti.uk/helplines/) - Sources of helpline support include: Samaritans: 24 hour helpline support for those experiencing distress, despair and/or suicidal feelings. https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/ 116 123 (free from any phone) Switchboard Switchboard – the LGBT+ helpline – a place for calm words when you need them most. Open 10:00-22:00 every day. Support by phone, message or email. https://switchboard.lgbt/ 0300 330 - [Join Quest](https://questlgbti.uk/joining-quest/) - Participation in the activities of regional Quest groups does not require membership of national Quest. However, as a member of Quest you will be able to contribute more fully to the activities of the organisation and receive our bulletin and mailings relating to member benefits and activities. Membership is open to all who share Quest’s - [Join Us](https://questlgbti.uk/joining-quest/quest-membership-application-form/) - [Membership payments by Paypal](https://questlgbti.uk/payment-details-page/membership-payments-by-paypal/) - Quest Membership rate options Full membership rate : £30.00 GBP - yearly Reduced rate : £15.00 GBP - yearly Hardship rate : £7.50 GBP - yearly Membership/application status New member Renewal Returning member When you click on 'Subscribe' you will be taken to a PayPal page that looks like the example page in the diagram - [Payment details page](https://questlgbti.uk/payment-details-page/) - If paying by cheque, please send to: Quest BM Box 2585 London WC1N 3XX Please ensure you mark 'membership' on the envelope so it can be forwarded to the correct person. IMPORTANT: Cheques for membership should be payable to "Quest". If you can, please write your membership number on the reverse of the cheque. 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The Joy of Love](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/amoris-laetitia-the-joy-of-love/) - [LGBT Catholics](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/lgbt-catholics/) - [gender](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/gender/) - [sexuality](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/sexuality/) - [spirituality](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/spirituality/) - [Germany](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/germany/) - [gay hate crime](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/gay-hate-crime/) - [gay hate crimes](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/gay-hate-crimes/) - [Orlando shooting](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/orlando-shooting/) - [Sr Jeannine Grammick](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/sr-jeannine-grammick/) - [Ignatian News Network](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/ignatian-news-network/) - [John Corvino](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/john-corvino/) - [natural law](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/natural-law/) - [Matthew Vines](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/matthew-vines/) - [Opinion/blog](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/opinionblog/) - [Cardinal Marx](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/cardinal-marx/) - [gay apology](https://questlgbti.uk/tag/gay-apology/) - 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