Summary
Pope Leo XIV received a delegation from Courage International, an international apostolate dedicated to supporting persons who experience same-sex attraction. The delegation included Bishop Frank Caggiano of Bridgeport, CT, and other members of the organization. Pope Francis had previously discussed the matter with Bishop Mark Seitz of El Paso in 2024 but passed away before a meeting could be arranged. Founded in New York in 1980, Courage now has over 160 chapters in 15 countries. The group seeks to guide individuals who struggle with same-sex attraction toward living according to Church teachings, focusing on five key goals: good example, prayer, dedication, fellowship, and support. Father Colin Blatchford, associate director of Courage International, attributes the organization’s work to the spirituality of St. Francis de Sales, emphasizing his willingness to be with anyone at any point.
Key Topics
Papal Audience, Courage International, El Paso Bishop