Copy of an old Byzantine icon
Before I begin talking about the religious aspects of the day I would like to introduce myself and briefly state my reason for reaching out to people who care for LGBTQ youth.
I am a 59-year-old mom and grandma and I am a lifelong Catholic. Three years ago, during Lent in fact, my youngest child came out to us. He told us he was a transgender boy. There was so much I did not know or understand about having a transgender child. I am still learning!
I read many books, online articles and pamphlets hoping to educate myself so that I could be supportive of my son’s transition. There were plenty of good, secular resources but there was no diocesan or nearby church support network for Catholic parents of LGBTQ kids.
I am hoping to reach other Catholic family members who may be in need of spiritual support. We have unique concerns about faith and family life. We are not alone, but as of yet, many of us are not connected.
I am not a theologian, I am just a mom trying to navigate supporting my son and staying close to Christ. It is not an easy task for Catholics. To be honest, I was struggling so much last year that for the first time ever I did not participate in Lent. I was so overwhelmed with the world pressing down on me that I could barely show up to mass on Sundays.
This year feels different somehow. I have grown in my faith, as I always do after a period of questioning. Frankly, there were days when I was not sure I could remain within the church and still fulfill my promise to love and care for my children.
But here I am, open to the Spirit that has prompted me to begin this Lenten journey with you.
I find encouragement in the Psalm for today (51).
“A clean heart create for me, O God,
And a steadfast spirit renew within me.
Cast me not out from your presence,
And your Holy Spirit take not from me.
Give me back the joy of your salvation,
And a willing spirit sustain in me.”
This is what it is all about for me; taking the words of scripture and letting them sink into my soul. Allowing the Grace of God to seep into the parched soil of my heart that is troubled by the world around me. “Give me back the joy of my salvation!” Lent should be about joy this year. The joy of turning to God for sustenance, for leaning in to His love for me. We are his children, every single one of us!
On this Ash Wednesday, think about simply remaining in God’s presence. Find a comfy chair, light a candle and breathe deeply. God is close to those who call upon him.
Peace!
The Last Lap (and what comes next) 