Fr. Bryan Massingale is a Black, openly gay priest, but not, in his own words, “a hybrid car,” that can be segmented into identity categories. Instead, he’s compound reality, a mystery made by God’s grace. Bryan joins host James Martin, S.J., on “The Spiritual Life” podcast to talk about the values of authenticity and integrity in his life and ministry.

0:00 Bringing God’s love forth
2:38 Why Bryan’s race and sexuality are significant
5:36 Challenges of being a Black and gay Catholic priest
11:35 How Bryan came out as gay
17:40 Authenticity frees us and others
25:55 Bryan’s advice to someone struggling with the church
29:38 The church’s track record on racism
34:53 Why Bryan remains in the church despite racism
39:34 The spiritual practice of journaling & music
44:45 Audience Question: What can parents of L.G.B.T.Q. children do when their kids refuse to come to Mass?

Read Fr. Jim’s spiritual advice article on this episode: https://www.americamagazine.org/podcasts/2026/02/24/father-bryan-massingale-the-spiritual-life/

Do you have a spiritual question for Fr. Jim? You can write to us at: [email protected]
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