Not about us and them…

It’s not about us and them, it’s about us! “He had a role to play in his brother not feeling welcome” was one participant’s observation based on what was shared in the online talk ‘Love and Same-Sex Attraction’ by Fr Mike Schmitz. One participant reflected: “So much time was spent not referencing same-sex attraction—it reminded me of today’s Gospel from Matthew 7:1-5 ‘Do not judge…’”

The message resonated deeply with one participant. “God calls me to peace, love and mercy. We put limits on ourselves, “You see me, I not dealing with that.’ But really, God is inviting me to become an instrument of peace, love and mercy to all, including persons with same-sex attraction.”

This prompted deeper reflection, as another participant added, “Many persons have a position that they don’t want to deal with it. I didn’t want to either. I am not there anymore.” God is calling us to respond to His love. It’s not about us and them. It’s the recognition of the part we play in each other’s lives.

Fr Mike’s talk challenged participants to see beyond mere tolerance or acceptance. He explained that tolerance is something you do to someone—and that’s not what the Church is called to. It is never us and them.

If you are someone who experiences same-sex attraction, you are not tolerated or accepted by the Church—you belong in the Church.

About EnCourage

EnCourage is a support group for parents, siblings and family members of persons who experience a same-sex attraction. Meetings are held monthly on the third Monday of each month. The next EnCourage meeting is Monday, July 21 at 7 p.m.

If you are a parent, sibling or family member of someone with same-sex attraction, and want more information, please contact us at encourage.trinidad@gmail.com or visit

couragerc.org for resources.