SPSE’s San Francisco team, deciding to go to “the belly of the beast,” set up at The Castro (Market & Castro Streets). Here is their report.
Interesting day! Lots of foot traffic, a great place to encounter people. We did get our share of sarcasm, and rude and offensive verbal remarks. But the GOOD encounters outweighed the bad, by far.
We spoke with many young, lost, spiritually void people. We gave out lots of Rosaries (including many pink and lavender ones!) and taught several people how to pray it. Evangelist Pie spoke with a young gal who asked if gay people go to hell, solely for BEING gay.
No, same-sex attraction is not a sin in itself. The Catholic Church distinguishes between action and temptation. Although she has always declared that “homosexual acts are intrinsically disordered” and “under no circumstances can they be approved” (CCC 2357), the Church looks with compassion on the many men and women who wrestle with same-sex attraction — and who are thus called to chastity.
“The number of men and women who have deep-seated homosexual tendencies is not negligible. This inclination, which is objectively disordered, constitutes for most of them a trial. They must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. … These persons are called to fulfill God’s will in their lives. … By the virtues of self-mastery that teach them inner freedom, … by prayer and sacramental grace, they can and should gradually and resolutely approach Christian perfection” (CCC 2358–9).
The team reports, “It was very rewarding being a small beacon of light in a spiritually dark place.” SPSE brings the Catholic Faith outside, where the lost can find it. And our evangelists usually find at least one during every outing.
It’s also true that good encounters far outweigh anything else. Evangelization turns out to be fun and rewarding. Are you ready for some adventure? If you’re not already an SPSE member, please pray about becoming one today. We have the tools and the training you need to get you ready and out there, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ!