Parent’s comments taken out of context, says archdiocese

The Archdiocese of Toronto has come to the defence of a man who drew complaints to police for comments he made concerning a proposal to fly the gay pride flag to recognize June’s “Pride Month” at Toronto Catholic schools.

Jody Maillet, a father of two students attending Catholic schools, made a presentation on March 4 to a committee of the Toronto Catholic District School Board, during which he said “sending signals that support gay pride messages is contrary to the teachings of the Church and have no place in our schools.”

He also told trustees they have a “spiritual and moral duty to ensure a compassionate, caring and loving Catholic environment at our schools.”

It was Maillet’s concluding comments, where he quotes Matthew 18:6, that has drawn fire.

“The words of Jesus in Matthew chapter 18 verse 6 is a reminder for each one of us: ‘If anyone of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depths of the sea,’” he told the committee.

LGBTQ activists called Maillet’s comments “homophobic.” Police confirmed they received complaints and are looking into whether his comments would constitute hate propaganda charges.

In a March 15 statement, the Archdiocese said it reviewed a transcript of Maillet’s presentation and “his remarks and the context of his statement have been widely misquoted or taken out of context.”

 “In fact, Mr. Maillet correctly expressed Catholic moral teaching, quoting the Catechism of the Catholic Church,” said the statement. 

“He suggested the help the sacraments offer to all who are struggling. Mr. Maillet reminded the trustees of their responsibility not to cause spiritual harm to the young people entrusted to their care, and referred to words in the Bible where Jesus uses a powerful image concerning people who are in a position of responsibility for young people. Clearly, some people, perhaps unfamiliar with the Gospel, misunderstood the reference. It is simply incorrect to link the Bible verse quoted to any suggestion of violence against the homosexual community.”

The TCDSB has reiterated its commitment “to creating inclusive environments that are safe and welcoming places for 2SLGBTQ+ students, staff and allies.”