They refuse to host the concert.
A Catholic cathedral in Buffalo has withdrawn from hosting a music festival after learning that an LGBT choir was scheduled to perform. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo decided to cancel the event at St. Joseph’s Cathedral upon discovering that the Buffalo Gay Men’s Chorus (BGMC) was one of the participating groups.
The festival, organized by Greater Buffalo Friends of Music, was initially set to take place on June 9, 2024. The organization, which promotes choral music in Western New York, announced on Facebook that the Diocese canceled the event because the BGMC’s values were deemed inconsistent with Catholic teachings. As a result, the festival has been relocated to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, which is part of the LGBT-affirming Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
The Diocese of Buffalo clarified in a statement to The Christian Post that it did not have full information about the choirs at the time of booking the event. Upon confirming all participants, the Diocese decided not to host the concert due to a conflict with Catholic values.
The Buffalo Gay Men’s Chorus expressed its disappointment and frustration on social media, while also expressing gratitude to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church for offering an alternative venue. Pastor Jeff Wilson of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church welcomed the choir, emphasizing the church’s commitment to inclusivity through the “Reconciling in Christ” program, which affirms all individuals regardless of their background.
Despite the new venue, the Diocese’s decision has faced backlash from local officials. Representative Tim Kennedy, a Democrat from Buffalo, wrote to Bishop Michael Fisher urging him to reconsider the decision. Kennedy, who identifies as a practicing Catholic, argued that the decision contradicts the teachings of love, compassion, and tolerance that are central to the faith. He suggested that the Diocese’s stance could alienate community members and undermine efforts to present the Church as inclusive and welcoming.
In response, Diocese of Buffalo Communications Director Joe Martone stated that Bishop Fisher stands by the decision and will not reconsider hosting the concert.
As it should be!