Courage conference to focus on 'Courageous friendship'

Chicago, Ill., Mar 13, 2019 / 04:19 pm (CNA).- A Catholic ministry announced Tuesday the theme for its upcoming conference for people who experience same-sex attraction and the families of those identifying as LGBT.

Courage International’s event will be held July 18-21 at Mundelein Seminary, near Chicago. The theme of the conference is “Courageous Friendship: Inspiring Hope and Renewal.”

A clergy day will proceed the event to prepare deacons, religious, and priests on how best to minister to people with same-sex attraction.

With more than 150 chapters across 18 countries, Courage International looks to support individuals with same-sex attraction who have decided to live a chaste life.

The conference attendees will be able to hear a variety of discussions, consisting of topics such as pastoral ministry and psychology. Participants will also be able to be involved with opportunities of prayer, like daily Mass, confession, and Eucharistic adoration.

The speakers at the event will include Adam Minihan and David Niles, hosts to The Catholic Man Show; Avera Maria Santo, a young adult blogger and member of courage; Mary Rice Hasson, the director of the Catholic Women’s Forum; Mark Houck, co-founder and president of The King’s Men; and Father Michael Gaitley, Director of Evangelization of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception.

Founded by Fr. John Harvey, the first Courage chapter meeting was held in 1980. The five foundational goals of Courage are chastity, prayer, fellowship, support, and good examples.