The Congregation of St. Joseph supports the recent statement, “God Is On Your Side,” written by twelve U.S. Catholic Bishops in support of at-risk LGBT youth. We believe in and respect the God-given dignity of all human life, including LGBT youth who often face severe bullying, harassment and violence, as well as being at higher risk for suicide. Our mission as Sisters and Associates of St. Joseph and our Gospel values call us to welcome and defend all who are persecuted or marginalized, and to treat each of our dear neighbors with respect, compassion and sensitivity. We affirm the work of the Bishops who added their names to this statement in standing up for at-risk LGBT youth.