Dear Editor,
My husband and I were deeply offended by the article “the church, homosexuality and the community,” written by Mr. Jorge Aldana, that was in The San Pedro Sun newspaper on September 11, 2015.
It was disrespectful to everyone. You not only attacked Father Scott’s character, the parishioners of the San Pedro Catholic Church, Pope Francis, but also the foundation on which the Catholic Church was built. Even though I was brought up in the Catholic faith, I feel it is important to be respectful of everyone’s religion. We all worship God in our own way.
My husband and I both had catholic education in the United States. I was born in Belize City and attended St. Catherine’s Academy until I was nine years old and moved to the United States. We have uttermost respect for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or religion. We’re all God’s children. He doesn’t discriminate.
The “Bible” is the teaching of God and his apostles. It doesn’t drive people away from God, but establishes a relation with God.
Mother Theresa is an example of what God teaches us to be “A servant of God.” She fed the poor and cared for the sick throughout her life. Wouldn’t it be great if each of us could follow in Mother Theresa’s footsteps?
The Catholic Church throughout the world had openly addressed “sexual abuse” within the Catholic Church. There are guidelines implemented within the Catholic Church addressing sexual abuse and what consequences will be placed if it occurs.
The Catholic Church cannot undo what has occurred in the past. They have acknowledged their faults and have asked for forgiveness. Sexual abuse has no occurred only in Catholic Churches, but in other denominations as well.
The people of San Pedro work very hard. Mr. Aldana to imply that their offerings is generated from sinful activities conducted on this “Sinful Island” is very insulting to everyone. Mr. Aldana, you owe these people an apology.
Father Scott had a seminar on September 15, 2015 from 7PM to 9PM, the topic was the “Catholic Church and Homosexuality”. Everyone was welcomed to attend.
Mr. Aldana, this would have given you the opportunity to view the film shown addressing the struggles of gays, lesbians and bisexuals with their sexual identity and the Catholic Church. An open discussion followed, where everyone was encouraged to share their views. Homosexuals are welcomed in the Catholic Church.
Father Scott is very involved in both the San Pedro community and Belize City. He is very in tune to the many challenges that both San Pedro and Belize City face. For example alcoholism, child exploitation, drug abuse and human trafficking, etc.
Each one of us is a servant of God. As a servant of God it is everyone’s duty to extend our hearts out to the homeless, poor and sick. Remember everyone’s actions speak louder than words.
My husband and I both had a spiritual journey with God. It’s the best journey in life. As Pope Francis recently said “Who am I to judge.” Father Scott is a man of God.
Sincerely,
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Foiry