By Isabella Cilento
“It takes a lot of courage to practice virtue,” said Father Ed Murphy, director of Courage of Northeast Florida. “Especially in a world that tells you to do the opposite.”
While June is widely recognized as Pride Month, a different kind of gathering will take place Saturday, June 14, at Assumption Catholic Church, 2403 Atlantic Blvd. in Jacksonville. Courage of Northeast Florida, a Catholic ministry for individuals with same-sex attraction seeking to live chastely, will host its first summer conference. The event will offer a day of spiritual encouragement, prayer and fellowship for Catholics striving to follow Church teaching.
Open to participants from throughout the Diocese of St. Augustine, the free event includes Mass, keynote talks, personal witness stories and group discussions. The conference aims to strengthen those navigating a life of discipleship, especially when it runs counter to cultural norms.
About Courage
Courage International was founded in 1980 by Father John Harvey at the request of Cardinal Terence Cooke, then archbishop of New York. The ministry was established to provide pastoral care for men and women who experience same-sex attraction and desire to live according to the moral teachings of the Catholic Church.
Courage holds that while same-sex attraction is not sinful in itself, homosexual acts are contrary to the Gospel call to chastity. At the same time, the Church calls for respect, compassion and sensitivity toward all persons, as stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (2358-2359).
Courage was granted Vatican recognition in 1994 and canonical status in 2016. The Northeast Florida chapter was established under Bishop John J. Snyder in 1999 and continues to support members under the direction of Father Murphy.
“What they’re looking for is friendship and compassion,” said Father Murphy. “They’re seeking to know Jesus Christ.”
The ministry offers a confidential and anonymous space for members to encourage one another and grow in holiness. At each meeting, members reflect on five goals: to live a chaste life, dedicate themselves to Christ, support one another in fellowship, develop chaste friendships and serve as witnesses to others seeking the same path.
Though some have criticized Courage chapters in the past, the ministry does not support conversion therapy or require members to change their sexual orientation.
“We don’t force anyone to convert,” said Father Murphy. “Courage is about helping people to live and walk with Christ.”
The structure of Courage meetings draws from the 12-step model used by other spiritual and recovery programs. While not equating same-sex attraction with addiction, Courage uses the model as a tool for growth in virtue and interior freedom.
“We’ve seen that the 12 steps help people deal with all sorts of struggles,” Father Murphy said. “And they help our members stay grounded in prayer and self-awareness.”
He added that a recurring theme in the ministry is the longing for authentic friendship.
“Many of our members, especially men, long for deep, non-sexual friendship with others,” he said. “They want brotherhood and connection that doesn’t depend on physicality. That’s often what draws them here.”
A Different Kind of Celebration
The June 14 conference will begin at 9:30 a.m. with Mass, followed by a welcome, keynote address and presentations from guest speakers who will reflect on God’s plan for human sexuality. Attendees will hear personal testimonies from Courage members and join in guided small-group discussions. The day will close with praying the rosary.
While the event is free, donations are welcome and will support the local chapter’s ministry.
“This conference isn’t meant to compete with Pride Month,” said Father Murphy. “It’s a quiet reminder that humility, chastity and friendship are beautiful, too.”
For more information or to inquire about Courage meetings in Northeast Florida, contact Father Ed Murphy at fr.ed@holyfaithchurch.org. For conference logistics, email Matthew Schmidt at mschmidt@assumptioncatholicchurch.org.
