This season of long nights and short days can feel very familiar to many LGBTQI and ally Catholics. So many of us have suffered the darkness of fear of rejection by family and cherished friends, job insecurity, inability to access needed health care, spiritual condemnation and exclusion, depression, even violence. When in the depth of the night, even the tiniest glimmer of light brings the rebirth of hope.

Each of us who lives our truth—the truth of affirmation of self and other, the conviction that compels us to reject labels that dehumanize and demean and to work to end oppressive structures—adds to the light that is salvation for those in darkness and despair.

When Dignity began, that tiny glimmer pierced the darkness in a new and startling way. Over these decades, as many have added their own shimmer and gleam, we have become like the Star of Bethlehem, leading many to their own rebirth.

Are those rejected because of their sexuality or gender identity welcomed by a growing number of Catholic communities? Are fired Catholic Church workers comforted and guided? Are transgender individuals given protection, dignity and respect? Are the voices of those who have been damaged by the misconduct or hateful acts of Catholic authorities raised up to demand accountability and pastoral care? Are families of every type and identity welcomed, celebrated, and provided access to all our Church’s sacraments? Are the dead of all sexual and gender identities held in prayer and comfort and given respectful celebrations of their lives? Are the consciences of straight people who act in justice towards their LGBTQI kin respected?

As we answer ‘Yes’ to more of these questions with each passing year, we know the dawn has broken, and the light shines more brightly. It is your light that illuminates the darkness. It is you who bring Christmas to those who have lived the long Advent. It is you who make the Divine Light, Divine Love, Divine Presence alive in our world.

This year, we celebrate each person who has borne the light of hopeful love to those in need. You birth Christ to a weary world.

May you and those you love know true joy this Christmas season.

In gratitude,

The Board and Staff of DignityUSA