Catechesis on Sexuality 7: Table-Talk – Sep 11 – Homily – Fr Terrance

 

Fr. Terrance gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Sep 11, 2023, where he concludes his series "Catechesis on Sexuality" by explaining how to engage with others about the errors of Gender Theory discussed in the rest of the series and the need to keep the discussion civil and focused on the world view that is put forward by the culture we live in.

Today's Gospel sees Jesus discussing with the scribes and Pharisees about actions on the Sabbath. Jesus emphasizes the permissibility of healing on the Sabbath, contrasting it with the Pharisees' wrongful intentions towards Him. The importance of dialogue, even with those who disagree, is highlighted.

In addressing gender theory, we should avoid unjust discrimination and respect all individuals. Discussions on gender should focus on worldviews rather than personal feelings. Philosophy, arts, and personal discussions shape our understanding of reality. Engaging in meaningful dialogue requires critical thinking, listening, and challenging beliefs.

Bishop Barron suggests finding common ground before steering the conversation towards deeper beliefs. It's essential to understand and question the underlying beliefs of others. Many haven't critically examined their views or recognized contradictions.

A recent conversation with a young atheist revealed contradictions in her beliefs about morality and activism. Moral subjectivism is inconsistent with activism, which implies a belief in meaningful causes.

Regarding gender pronouns, it's essential to stand firm in truth. Using incorrect pronouns goes against the [Eighth Commandment - You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/exodus/20]. It's a matter of religious liberty and truth.

When discussing gender theory, be clear about your stance. If faced with criticism, remember [Matthew 5:11-12 - Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/matthew/5?11-12]. Respond with kindness and engage in meaningful conversations.

In all discussions, be civil, respectful, and prayerful. Seek wisdom from Our Lady to engage and disengage in conversations about gender.

Bibliography for Catechesis on Sexuality:

Benedict XVI Christmas Audience to Roman Curia, 2012. - https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/speeches/2012/december/documents/hf_ben-xvi_spe_20121221_auguri-curia.html

Abigail Favale, The Genesis of Gender: A Christian Theory, Ignatius Press, 2022. - https://ignatius.com/the-genesis-of-gender-ggp/

Catholic Diocese of Arlington, A Catechesis on the Human Person & Gender Ideology, August 12, 2021. - https://www.arlingtondiocese.org/bishop/public-messages/2021/a-catechesis-on-the-human-person-and-gender-ideology/

Mary Eberstadt, Adam and Eve after the Pill: Paradoxes of the Sexual Revolution, Ignatius Press, 2012. - https://ignatius.com/adam-and-eve-after-the-pill-aeapp/

Donald De Marco & Benjamin Wiker, Architects of the Culture of Death, Ignatius Press, 2004. - https://ignatius.com/architects-of-the-culture-of-death-acdp/

John Grabowski, Unraveling Gender: The Battle over Sexual Difference, TAN Books, 2022. - https://tanbooks.com/contemporary-issues/social-issues/unraveling-gender-the-battle-over-sexual-difference/

Michele M. Schumacher, Metaphysics and Gender: The Normative Art of Nature and its Human Imitations, Emmaus Academic, 2023. - https://www.amazon.com/Metaphysics-Gender-Normative-Nature-Imitations/dp/1645852903

Paul M. Quay, The Christian Meaning of Human Sexuality: Expanded Edition, Ignatius Press, 2017. - https://ignatius.com/christian-meaning-of-human-sexuality-digital-cmhs2e/

John DeSilva Finley, Sexual Identity: The Harmony of Philosophy, Science, and Revelation, Emmaus Road Publishing, 2022. - https://www.amazon.com/Sexual-Identity-Harmony-Philosophy-Revelation/dp/1645851893

Congregation for Catholic Education, Male & Female He Created Them: Towards a Path of Dialogue on the Question of Gender Theory in Education, Vatican City, 2019. -  https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/ccatheduc/documents/rc_con_ccatheduc_doc_20190202_maschio-e-femmina_en.pdf

Playlist for Gender Theology: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCut9-qb3FE&list=PLejh_e0-LN4wghC0gzMPLNQtCetSvAhL_

Ave Maria!

00:00 - Introduction
00:52 - Agree on basic principles like avoiding unjust discrimination
02:00 - Address at the level of worldview, not just opinions
04:02 - Get them to articulate their beliefs and reasons
05:56 - Challenge contradictions in their thinking
08:54 - Ask if gender theory makes sense
10:15 - Share truth but don't argue endlessly
12:31 - Refuse false pronouns on religious grounds
13:36 - Be civil but don't compromise truth
14:18 - Pray for wisdom in engagement and disengagement

Mass: Monday 23rd Week of Ordinary Time - Wkdy

Readings:  - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/091123.cfm
1st: col 1:24-2:3
Resp: psa 62:6-7, 9
Gsp: luk 6:6-11

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=1493

Also on Facebook: https://fb.watch/m_QrFxo3XN/
and YouTube: https://youtu.be/UKl8Nyn0SQQ