As the school traveled to downtown Cleveland to join other Catholic schools in the diocese for the Eucharistic Revival Rally Mass, many were not expecting what they saw. As the buses arrived at the Cleveland Public Auditorium, a venue known for hosting the performances of great stars such as Elvis Presley, NDCL students and faculty were not expecting to see such a sight… On the left side, across from the Auditorium, protesters with signs in-hand were chanting and peacefully standing in the frigid air.
Many may have felt anxious or unsure of what would happen next, however, the protests remained peaceful. Yet, the question remains, “Why would they protest at a Mass for the Catholic high schools in the Cleveland Diocese?”
Earlier this fall, Bishop Edward Malesic issued a new policy* for the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland. Co-signed by Chancellor Vincent Gardiner, the policy lists new rules for churches and schools across Northeast Ohio for people who “experience gender dysphoria and gender confusion.” The policy was ultimately met with controversy by those upset with its implementation. This led to the protest outside of the November 1st event, in which protesters peacefully displayed their strong opinions regarding the new policy.
At the Rally, the main attraction of the day was set to celebrate God; however, some were focused on what was happening outside of the building, instead of focusing on strengthening their faith within. Many students left curious about why and what the small group of protesters was for. Yet inside, the day spent with speakers such as Chica, and watching our fellow students, Lucy Joyce and Anthony Roach, participate in such a moving day was inspirational.
The protests caught our eye–however, the most important part of the day was growing closer to God and celebrating all the Saints. Together, we will strive to tolerate and understand each other in this world, as well as locally, within the Diocese of Cleveland.
