With the Spirit of the Lord There is Freedom

Continuing with the series of real-life examples I'd like to offer in response to the recent misguided statements by the Pope on the topic of homosexuality, I would like to share this video today from the Christian duo Jason and deMarco. I've shared before on my blog about J & D and just think in general that they're an amazing witness of God's love. As a loving same-sex couple they've found a way to be true to themselves and also serve God in a ministry that's making a difference in the lives of so many people who listen to and are inspired by their music.

This video, "With the Spirit of the Lord There is Freedom," is appropriate not only for the exuberance and joy it exudes but also for the important message it conveys. Although there is always a need for discipline and community discernment within the broader church, there is also a need to let the Spirit move and liberate those who are downtrodden. In the case of LGBT people of faith, there is a growing recognition on the part of many people of conscience for the need to allow the Spirit to move in our lives and free us from entrapment within overly strict categories of what it means to be either male or female.

Something of an awareness of this reality is what we need today in the church - among the community of believers. We need to let the Spirit move, allowing God to liberate LGBT people from religious oppression and helping them find meaningful lives of hope, service to God and community and loving lifetime commitments together.

Come, Holy Spirit, open our hearts, free us from the shackles that deny us our dignity as children of God and lead us forth into your authentic freedom and peace.

Padre Chuck