Social Justice Corner: Who Do You Say That I Am?

Who Do You Say That I Am? Submitted by Ann Castiglione June 29 was the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul. I read an absolutely beautiful, thought-provoking article on the New Ways Ministry site by Mike O’Donnell, a member of Dignity/Washington and theology teacher. He reflected on Jesus’ question, “Who do you say that I am?” After the Apostles gave the answers most people would give, “John the Baptist, Elijah, one of the prophets,” Jesus asked again and Peter answers, “You are the Christ, the son of the living God.” Mr. O’Donnell goes on to ask [especially to the LGBTQ community] “Who does God say YOU are?” and “Who do YOU say you are?” He continues, “My hope and prayer is that every LGBTQ+ person has a Simon Peter in their life – someone who can rise above the cultural noise and speak the truth about who they are. Someone who doesn’t rely on old prejudices,… but who sees you with the eyes of love and spiritual insight.” My question to myself and to you, is, “Can you and I be Simon Peter for others?”