Made in God’s Image: A Justice Statement on Gender, Sex, and Sexuality Diversity

The Australian consciousness is formed by the understanding that it is illegal to discriminate based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and intersex status. Indeed, Australians have embraced the idea that gender, sex, and sexuality diversity is to be welcomed, included, and celebrated.

The Catholic vision of a human person is entwined in the inherent dignity of individuals as lovingly formed by the Creator God. Each person's uniqueness and diversity reflects God's image and the goodness of Creation.

As Australian people living Spirituality of the Heart and called 'to be on Earth the heart of God', the Australian Council of the Laity of the Chevalier Family issues the following justice statement on gender, sex, and sexuality diversity: 

We rejoice in our differences and celebrate the gift of the LGBTQIA+ community. We live 'to be on Earth the heart of God' and welcome and include all people in their diversity.

The Australian Council of the Laity of the Chevalier Family make the following concrete promises:

• To be informed and caring people, who recognise the dignity of everyone.
• To reach out with love to people, particularly those who are marginalised.
• To provide a safe and respectful environment for people to raise issues, ask questions, and share information.
• To provide formation resources regarding gender, sex, and sexuality diversity.
• To include the justice statement on gender, sex, and sexuality diversity on the Laity of the Chevalier Family Australia website and in the Australian Council communications.

The Australian Council acknowledges that while this justice statement might be challenging, it represents the desire to recognise God in each person and embrace with love each person's diversity.

Learn more about gender, sex, and sexuality diversity and read Michael Fallon MSC's article, "Paul's Writings on Homosexual Behaviour".