In the 1970s, Philadelphia boasted a robust culture of LGBT religious groups. They were the first to have social events outside bars, said Michael Rocks, president of Dignity Philadelphia, a Catholic group. An interfaith New Year’s Eve celebration used to take place annually.
Over time, other LGBT organizations sprung up to address social needs. While Jewish, Lutheran and Episcopalian congregations began welcoming LGBT people to their mainstream services, Catholics did not follow suit.
Rocks said Dignity Philadelphia maintains a unique relevance because people may have fallen away from the church for a number of reasons — from its stance against women in leadership to the child sexual-abuse scandal — but they still want a spiritual home.
While Dignity has seen declining attendance from several hundred in the early years to about 40 now, Rocks said a lot of new members are friends and family of LGBT people.
“We’re a very progressive Catholic community,” he said, noting many find that refreshing, especially in the city.
“In Philadelphia, we have an archbishop who’s very anti-LGBT,” Rocks added, referring to Charles J. Chaput. “He’s gone out of his way to issue guidance that’s very homophobic. We need to be able to challenge the institution. We need to say, ‘What you’re saying is not in keeping with the Gospel.’
“Even though Pope Francis seems to be a light, a possibility for dialogue, our local bishop completely ignored what the pope recommended American Catholics do,” Rocks added. “Here in Philadelphia, we’re not even given a chance.”
Dignity opened its doors in Philadelphia 43 years ago and has had no formal connection to the Catholic Church.
Rocks said Dignity’s 10 rotating clergy include ordained priests who left the Church to marry and womenpriests, who were ordained by bishops though not institutionally recognized.
Mass takes place every Sunday at 7 p.m. at St. Luke and the Epiphany, 330 S. 13th St. This month’s activities also include a potluck Sept. 18 and a social Sept. 25.
In addition to religious services, the congregation volunteers monthly at Broad Street Ministry, a nondenominational Christian church that provides meals and shelter to people living in poverty; organizes a Christmas party at Calcutta House for people affected by HIV/AIDS; and hosts fundraisers for other LGBT organizations.
“We really want to become more visible,” Rocks said.
For more information, visit www.dignityphila.org.