In a bold act of protest, a transgender person took a stand against an anti-LGBTQ+ sermon delivered during a Sunday service at St. Raphael Parish church in Ohio. The individual, identified as Avery, approached the lectern after Rev. Timothy W. Gareau concluded his sermon, which criticized the drag nun activist group The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. Avery’s heartfelt words of dissent were met with a forceful response, as three men swiftly removed them from the stage, evoking mixed reactions from the congregation.
Rev. Gareau’s sermon centered around his criticism of the Los Angeles Dodgers for honoring The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, stating that their actions were defaming the Catholic faith. He expressed his dismay and called upon the congregation to resist the perceived attack on their beliefs, urging them to fight back using means other than aggression. Avery, however, found the sermon hurtful and took the opportunity to address the reverend directly, emphasizing that queer and trans individuals also embody the Holy Spirit.
Before Avery could convey further thoughts, they were abruptly silenced and escorted off the stage by the three men. The incident garnered mixed reactions from the audience, with some voicing support for the activist and others displaying their disapproval. Outside the church, tensions escalated as a witness reported an angry parishioner hurling derogatory remarks and threatening physical harm to both Avery and their supporters. The situation was ultimately defused by an off-duty police officer who intervened.
The Catholic Diocese of Cleveland issued a statement applauding Rev. Gareau’s sermon, framing it as a response to the “growing acceptance of anti-Catholic bigotry in our society.” The statement emphasized the freedom to hold differing opinions but condemned any disruptions during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. It called for both critics and defenders of the Church to engage in respectful dialogue without resorting to violence or threats.
While the church removed the video of the controversial sermon from its Facebook page, footage capturing Rev. Gareau’s remarks and Avery’s response circulated on TikTok, attracting significant attention and sparking conversations about LGBTQ+ rights and the importance of inclusivity within religious spaces.
In a world where the fight for LGBTQ+ acceptance continues, Avery’s courageous act sheds light on the ongoing struggle for equality and respect for all individuals, irrespective of their gender identity or sexual orientation.