How do I handle a co-worker's same-sex union?

[althor201]

How do I best handle a friendship developing at work with a co-worker who has a same-sex “spouse”? I want to make sure to be forthright with her, and not have her think I approve of her same-sex union when I don’t. She knows clearly that I am Catholic and in the Knights of Columbus. She is very smart, and has said I am a “man of my word,” so I am assuming she must know I could never recognize her “marriage” as legitimate. It’s a tough balancing act to love God as I should, be compassionate to her and her same-sex partner, to love her as I should love a sister in Christ, and not be judgmental. Any general pointers of what lines not to cross would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

althor201:

Any general pointers of what lines not to cross would be greatly appreciated.

The main one is to stop the friendship from continuing to develop and to resolve to remain “just co-workers.” By doing so, you can refrain entirely from commenting upon or even taking notice of your co-worker’s private life.

This isn’t as “mean” as I am certain some will believe it to sound. Presumably your co-worker has her own life outside of work, complete with friends and family who can make their own decisions about the best way to respond to her chosen lifestyle. If you are able to maintain a pleasant work environment by treating your co-worker with professional consideration and respect, there is no need for you to involve yourself in her private life. Any overtures from her inviting you to do so can be deflected with a friendly smile and apologies for being “busy.”

In this day and age, faithful Christians have enough problems dealing with those in their own families and circles of friends who live sinful lifestyles that they don’t need to seek out problems by developing friendships and other social interactions with people who live lifestyles with which they cannot agree. In certain circumstances, some Christians may be able to do so successfully. Those Christians who do not have the diplomatic temperament, faith formation, or inclination to develop those traits, can and should avoid situations like this that can bring grief to them and to the person living the immoral lifestyle.