Courage in Isolation
We have gathered a few resources for members of Courage and EnCourage who are seeking pastoral support and guidance during this time of isolation. Please check back as we continue to develop this page.
Stay connected
As our members know, friendship lies at the heart of our apostolate. During this time of social distancing and isolation, we want to help our members stay in touch!
Virtual Meetings
In the absence of in-person meetings, a growing number of chapters have been making use of video conferencing platforms to hold «virtual» Courage and EnCourage meetings with their Chaplains. Read more in the article Staying Connected During Isolation.
Courage on Call
Courage On Call is a phone bridge of the Courage Apostolate whose aim is to reach out to men and women who experience same-sex attraction and wish to live chastely, but do not have access to a local Courage chapter or prefer an alternative to our online forums.
Online Support
Connect with other members of Courage and EnCourage through our online forums!
- Courage Online
- Ladies of Courage
- EnCourage Support
- EnCourage Spouses
- Courage Young Adults
- Courage and EnCourage Together
Find us on social media
Sacraments and Prayer
Find information and guidance* on growing in the faith during this time of limited access to the Sacraments
The Eucharist
In her wisdom, the Church encourages those who cannot receive the Eucharist to make an Act of Spiritual Communion. Saint John Paul II reminded us of the value of this, citing the words of Saint Teresa of Jesus: “When you do not receive communion and you do not attend Mass, you can make a spiritual communion, which is a most beneficial practice; by it the love of God will be greatly impressed on you” (Ecclesia de Eucharistia, n. 34).
Confession
While we believe that the Sacrament of Confession gives us the fullness of God’s mercy, we know that God is never far from the one who seeks Him, and His power to forgive extends far beyond the confessional. If for these days the Sacrament of Confession is not able to be scheduled, you can make an act of perfect contrition before God. “Perfect” contrition comes from a pure love of God above all else. “Such contrition remits venial sins; it also obtains forgiveness of mortal sins if it includes the firm resolution to have recourse to sacramental confession as soon as possible” (CCC #1452).
*These resources have been adapted from pastoral guidelines set by the Diocese of Bridgeport regarding the COVID-19 pandemic
Stay informed
Read our most recent updates on the COVID-19 pandemic as it relates to Courage International and EnCourage