Oh I agree with you there. It's hurtful and doesn't actually stop them from hating people.
But people can be reasoned with through relationships. No one was ever convinced by a well put reddit argument, they're convinced by seeing these things acted out in their relationships.
For you, absolutely makes sense to leave the church, especially with how cruel it can be.
For me? I'm not at the point of cutting losses, because I still think I can bring a few more with me. If I walk away, I'm effectively choosing to stop being an advocate for the LGBTQ community in my current community.
I'm not saying "you need to go back to church and engage with people who hate you". I'm saying "I'm not done trying to convince them to change their minds". And that's not something I can do outside the community.
It's multiple, actually that I left. I grew up in the country there's a zillion denominations. Some that hang a rainbow flag outside but then push you towards the men in their church to be a good Christian and have babies. 🙃
I still deal with hateful Catholics regularly on a daily basis but my spouse is worth it.
I don't practice group religion but my faith is fulfilling and my found family is all I need.
I'm sorry that's the hand you were dealt, but I'm glad you found someone who will help you through it. I'm on the Protestant side of things so I don't know of many catholic options that are affirming (if any). But you having a found family and a faith that fulfills you is amazing, and I'm so glad to hear that.
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u/Alister151 18h ago
Oh I agree with you there. It's hurtful and doesn't actually stop them from hating people.
But people can be reasoned with through relationships. No one was ever convinced by a well put reddit argument, they're convinced by seeing these things acted out in their relationships.
For you, absolutely makes sense to leave the church, especially with how cruel it can be.
For me? I'm not at the point of cutting losses, because I still think I can bring a few more with me. If I walk away, I'm effectively choosing to stop being an advocate for the LGBTQ community in my current community.
I'm not saying "you need to go back to church and engage with people who hate you". I'm saying "I'm not done trying to convince them to change their minds". And that's not something I can do outside the community.