Parish Letter01

COURAGE December 2006 [Pastor Name] [Church Name] [Street] [City, State ZIP] Dear [Salutation]: I am pleased to send you a brochure about Courage, the Vatican-approved support group for persons with same-sex attraction. I urge you to consider informing your parishioners about Courage. A postcard is enclosed for your convenience in requesting additional brochures. You may have heard of Courage recently; an article in the November 30 Evangelist described the start of Courage in the Albany diocese. This followed a memo to all parishes from Meg Bergh in the Family Life Office. Courage is also recommended in “Ministry to Persons with a Homosexual Inclination: Guidelines for Pastoral Care,” issued by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and approved by the entire conference of bishops. “It can be helpful for persons who find themselves with homosexual attractions to gather together in mutual understanding and support. This can be particularly the case because persons with a homosexual inclination may feel ‘different,’ which can lead to isolation and alienation, which are risk factors for an unhealthy life, including unchaste behaviors. Support groups, noted for their adherence to Church teaching, for persons who experience same-sex attraction continue to be an important part of Church ministries and are to be encouraged” (page 22). Courage is exclusively a program of spiritual growth. It is pledged to confidentiality, respecting the anonymity of members. Informing parishioners of this undertaking through notices in your parish bulletin would also be appreciated. A possible notice: COURAGE: A support group for persons with same-sex attractions striving to follow the teachings of the Church. For confidential inquiries, telephone 518-496-4771 or write [email protected] Sincerely in Christ,

518-496-4771 • P.O. BOX 9562 • SCHENECTADY, NY 12309

COURAGE Jeffrey L’Arche, M.S.

518-496-4771 • P.O. BOX 9562 • SCHENECTADY, NY 12309