Yesterday, the pastor of the Basilica of Saint Mary suspended me from my position as Artist-in-Residence (a position I’ve held for 15 years). This came 48 hours after I facebooked my intention to spearhead a personal art project turning the archbishop’s disheartening, divisive DVDs into an artwork about inclusion and hope,
Disappointed as I am by my suspension, I do not want to overly focus on it. My primary focus remains on making a great piece of art in collaboration with all of you who donate DVDs.
However, I must note that I am both startled and humbled to find that I join the ranks of people before me who been silenced or ousted one by one for disagreeing with the church. Maybe in 500 years, I, like Galileo, will get my suspension lifted.
The Catholic Church is full of wonderful, loving people. The DVD to ART project is about highlighting those folks who say, “Yes, let’s come together and welcome everyone.”
“All are welcome at the table” is not just an Episcopalian saying. If Jesus was physically here today he wouldn’t be dining with tax collectors, he’d be dining with drag queens.
Please help me continue with my vision by donating your DVDs and spreading the word about the project. I want to create a sculpture so big and beautiful that everyone will see the love that is at the heart of the Catholic Church.
8 comments:
You continue to amaze me with your gracious focus on love and creating beautiful art!
At least the Church won't confine you to house arrest (or burn you at the stake)...
Hang in there! You're doing good.
Don'f forget the Blues Brothers, who were on a mission from God, too. They were shunned by the Catholic church in 1980, then ENDORSED by the Vatican June 17 of this year!
Oh, this is so wrong! I deeply admire your clear-hearted action, and on behalf of my daughter's two dads (one of whom used to be an altar boy), I thank you for taking a courageous public stand for our family and for all of us against this hateful, hateful abuse of the pulpit.
I"m sending you a warm embrace,
Joanna
Thank you for having the courage to do something positive with the DVD. I was so angered that the church was sending that out until realizing that it came from fear. If they send one out to me I am more than willing to donate it to a good cause. Please post where we can donate our copies!
You are nothing less than amazing! As a gay Catholic to another Catholic...thank you from the bottom of my heart! I can't wait to herewith others, the courage in what you're doing. God bless you!
You are nothing less than an amazing woman! From a gay catholic to another catholic, let me thank you from the bottom of my heart. It pains me, day in and day out to see so much hate within the sacredness if our Church. On one side of things I feel loved, included and welcome. On other sides of things I feel hated, disowned and forgotten about. It is people like you who renew my faith and my hope in Christ and His Church.
Thank you for having the courage I lack. You are in my prayers.
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