Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Catholics in the Diocese of Lincoln who have same-sex desires or gender discordance now have a program they can turn to for help and support in living a chaste life within the Church. Eden Invitation, a group based in St. Paul, Minnesota, aims to offer a message of hope and provide a community for individuals who desire a way of life in congruence with Christ and His Church.

The organization was founded in 2017 by Anna Carter, who recognized a need for a more integrated approach to addressing sexuality and gender within the Catholic faith. Carter explains, "We definitely address sexuality and gender, but we do it in the larger context of ... Catholic faith and Christ's call to discipleship."

Father Nathan Hall, pastor of North American Martyrs Parish in Lincoln, serves as one of the national chaplains for Eden Invitation. He emphasizes the importance of sharing the truth in a compassionate and open manner, stating, "It shouldn't be a hammer that you beat someone over the head with, but it shouldn't be hidden away." Father Hall believes that by openly discussing the truth of same-sex desires and Church teaching, individuals can fully understand and embrace their faith without feeling deceived or excluded.

The Eden Invitation program follows a sequence of steps, allowing participants to progress at their own pace. It begins with a "story call," where individuals are invited to share their experiences and backgrounds. This is followed by a book club, where participants engage in discussions on spirituality and the human experience. The program then moves to higher levels, such as "the porch" and "the threshold," which involve further learning and in-person retreats. The final step, known as the "hearth," allows individuals to join and actively engage with a monthly community in their area.

It is important to note that Eden Invitation firmly adheres to Church teaching on faith and morals, as stated in their Statement of Belief. The organization emphasizes the call to holiness and the integration of sexuality according to one's state in life. Father Hall confirms this commitment, saying, "Anyone who might be uncomfortable with this, just know I, 100 percent, would not be a part of this if it was off the rails, trying to change Church teaching. It's not. It's trying to receive the people and then maybe one day get them there."

While the Diocese of Lincoln previously had a local chapter of Courage, a support group for those with same-sex desires, Eden Invitation focuses specifically on young adults with same-sex desires and gender discordance. The group does not offer a specific program for family members, but it aims to create a welcoming and inclusive community where individuals can feel supported and understood.

Father Hall hopes that every priest in the diocese can create a parish environment where individuals with same-sex desires and gender discordance feel comfortable being part of the community and are received with mercy in the confessional. He envisions parishes becoming beacons of truth, openly embracing the gospel message while providing hope and support to those who need it.

Eden Invitation's mission of offering hope and support to Catholics with same-sex desires is an important step towards creating a more inclusive and compassionate Church community. Through their integrated approach and emphasis on Church teaching, they hope to bridge the gap between faith and sexuality, providing individuals with a sense of belonging and acceptance. For more information on Eden Invitation, visit their website at edeninvitation.com or reach out to Father Nathan Hall at North American Martyrs Church in Lincoln.