Windy City Times:
I am writing this letter in response to the Windy City Times article "Peaceful assembly protests Rainbow flag burning at Resurrection Catholic Church," by Carrie Maxwell.
When I first heard rumblings about this happening at Resurrection Catholic Church, 3043 N. Francisco Ave., I turned it over to the Holy Spirit, understanding if there was any malice in my heart directed at Pastor Fr. Paul Kalchik, who called for the burning of the rainbow flag, my prayers would not be responded to. Yet Kalchik is my brother in Christ, and I must reach out to him to engage him in a dialogue process if possible.
This is just another example of churchmen who are so stuck in conservatism and authority that they cannot see and understand the Gospel of Christ. The Church is a mystery. While there are different visions of the Church, there is no single vision of what it really is.
The sacral concept of the of the priesthood can be exaggerated. It can lead to superstitious exaltation of the priest, and incidents such as this flag burning. This homophobic militancy only brings shame to the gospels. These are, indeed, times of exceptional circumstances for the United States.
Thank you, Cardinal Cupich for showing effective leadership in this matter. Homophobia where ever it raises its ugly head must be dealt with immediately, by removing this pastor from parish leadership you have shown compassion.
I also wish to thank Ald. Deb Mell for showing her leadership with immediate action to confront the hate directed at the LGBTQA Community with the Truth. We need more politicians like her.
God bless,
Joe Murray
Executive Director
Rainbow Sash Movement
