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The Rev. Mychal Judge was the first recorded casualty of the terrorist attack on 9/11. Recognized for his support and efforts during the HIV/AIDS crisis, Judge is honored by the Syracuse All Saints Parish, an all-inclusive church.

“We present an award every year to individuals or groups that live on his legacy,” Jeff Wright, co-chair of the parish’s LGBTQ+ task force, a prominent part of the church, said.

This year, the memorial featured Mary Jo McConahay, writer and author of “Playing God: American Catholic Bishops and the Far Right.” The memorial event also included the presentation of an award in Judge’s honor to those who further his legacy. This year, the Syracuse Gay/Lesbian Catholics and Friends earned the distinction.

Given the church’s progressive Catholic philosophy, McConahay was happy to speak at the event. Born a Catholic, McConahay did not find herself connecting with the religion until she spent time in South America, where she said she saw “real Catholicism.” For her, the religion’s main concern should be people giving back to their community.

“I felt that this parish, with its wonderful history of openness, would be a wonderful place to speak,” McConahay said.

The church’s acceptance is a common source of appeal for members and guests alike. Wright, as a gay man, struggled with his religious beliefs and his sexuality. However, he found comfort in All Saints Parish and its LGBTQ+ task force. He said the parish is a space in which both of his identities could coexist.

“When I found this parish, I was inspired,” Wright said. “The task force was the first thing I signed up for.”

Referencing Judge’s caring nature, Wright said Judge would have appreciated McConahay’s speech, as she calls for equality.

“He was an amazing human being, an amazing pastor and anyone that’s ever come in contact with him has nothing but wonderful things to say about him,” Wright said.

Sept. 11, 2001, was not the only date in American history that proved influential to the memorial. McConahay also referenced Jan. 6 as an inciting incident that inspired her to write her book.

A call against white Christian nationalism, McConahay denounced Islamophobia and Project 2025 in her book, saying each ideology goes directly against Catholic teachings. She urged attendees to be actively involved in the election.

Like McConahay, other members of the church are greatly concerned with the growing connection between white nationalism and Catholicism.

“The far right and a good number of (Catholic bishops) have bonded,” Wright said. “That’s not good for anyone.”

The Rev. Fred Daley, All Saints Catholic Church pastor, spoke about the prejudice within the Catholic church. He said intolerance toward groups such as Muslims does not follow Catholic teachings.

“Racism, sexism, homophobia, Islamophobia (are) contrary to the gospel of Jesus,” Daley said.

While Toni Guidice, a member of All Saints’ LGBTQ+ task force, was aware of Christian nationalism, she said she found the event to be eye-opening. She said she didn’t know the extent of how much money and how many organizations support Christian nationalism.

McConahay said she was grateful for the opportunity to speak to an engaged audience about a subject she is so passionate about.

“Being in Syracuse has been very heartwarming,” McConahay said. “I’m very excited about the active minds and lives of the people I’ve met here.”

Published on September 12, 2024 at 12:53 am

Contact: acarr10@syr.edu