The Catholic Diocese of Lexington, Kentucky, has expressed support for Brother Christian Matson, a monk who recently came out as transgender.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the diocese acknowledged Brother Christian’s commitment to his faith and spiritual journey.
“Brother Christian has long sought to consecrate his life to Christ in the Church by living the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
He has consistently been accompanied by a competent spiritual director and has undergone formation in the Benedictine tradition,” the statement said.
“He does not seek ordination, but has professed a rule of life that allows him to support himself financially by continuing his work in the arts and to live a life of contemplation in a private hermitage.
Bishop John Stowe, OFM Conv., accepted his profession and is grateful to Brother Christian for his witness of discipleship, integrity, and contemplative prayer for the Church,” the statement added.
