Catholic ministry for same-sex attracted individuals marks 45 years of faithful outreach

Courage International, a Catholic apostolate that ministers to individuals who experience same-sex attraction, will commemorate the 45th anniversary of its founding Sept. 26.  

Father Brian Gannon, who serves as executive director, reflected on the anniversary by citing Psalm 125: “The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.” 

“We thank God for the pastoral courage of Father Harvey, who, reading the signs of the times, began this beautiful apostolate,” he said in a Sept. 24 press release from the organization. “Over the years it has helped so many men and women to persevere on the path of holiness.”

The group’s beginnings trace back to a meeting in New York City in 1980, initiated by Father John Harvey, OSFS, in response to a pastoral request from Cardinal Terence Cooke, then-Archbishop of New York, according to the release. In the years since that initial gathering, the apostolate has expanded into an international network.

According to its official website, Courage International “is a group of Catholics who experience same-sex attractions and who are committed to helping one another to live chaste lives marked by prayer, fellowship and mutual support.” The ministry’s approach includes spiritual direction, communal prayer, and opportunities for fellowship. Central to its mission are five guiding goals: chastity, prayer and spiritual growth, fellowship, encouragement in forming chaste friendships, and being a positive witness to others.

Now present in more than 15 countries, Courage International maintains over 160 local chapters and was granted canonical status in 2016 as a diocesan clerical public association of the faithful.

Alongside the 45-year milestone, Courage is also recognizing anniversaries in two regions: 30 years of activity in the Philippines and 20 years in Mexico through its Spanish-speaking outreach, Courage Latino. Members in both countries have recently gathered to celebrate these occasions.

The apostolate is also affiliated with EnCourage, a support network for relatives and friends of individuals who experience same-sex attractions. Formed in 1987 and officially named in 1992, EnCourage now includes more than 100 chapters worldwide.

Fr. Gannon also acknowledged the contributions of chaplains and volunteers to the apostolate’s mission, adding a prayer that their service continues to reflect “truth, authentic love, and mercy for the Church and the world.”

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