EnCourage is an apostolate which provides pastoral care for families and friends of people who experience same-sex attractions and/or gender discordance. In many cases, their loved ones have adopted the LGBTQ label, and may have moved away from actively practicing their faith.

Through local chapters and online support, our members receive help and encouragement to understand the experience of their loved ones more deeply, to foster healthy relationships within their families, and to deepen their own relationship with Christ.

The apostolate was first formed in 1987 by families in search of guidance and understanding for supporting loved ones who experience same-sex attractions. In 1992, this group adopted the name EnCourage, and now includes over 100 chapters worldwide.

We Are Here to Help

“Mom, Dad: I’m gay.” How does a parent respond to this revelation? Is it possible to love my child without accepting his or her choices? To accept God's teaching without making them feel alienated from the family?

Know that you are not alone. For guidance and support, please send us an e-mail. We will put you in touch with someone who can help you.

The Five Goals of EnCourage

In recognition of the irreplaceable role of the family in attaining an understanding of the experience of same-sex attractions and embracing a life of chastity, EnCourage was founded. As an apostolate of Courage, and flowing from its central purpose, EnCourage provides pastoral care to family members and friends of persons who identify as LGBT. Here are the Five Goals of EnCourage:

1. To grow spiritually through spiritual reading, prayer, meditation, individual spiritual direction, frequent attendance at Mass, and the frequent reception of the Sacraments of Penance and Holy Eucharist;
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2. To gain a deeper understanding of the needs, difficulties, and challenges of men and women who experience same-sex attractions;
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3. To establish and maintain a healthy and wholesome relationship with loved ones who experience same-sex attractions;
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4. To assist other family members and friends to reach out with compassion and truth, and not to reject, their loved ones who experience same-sex attractions;
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5. To witness to their loved ones by their own lives that fulfillment is to be found in Jesus Christ through His Body, the Church.

What is EnCourage?

We Are Here to Help

The Five Goals of EnCourage

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