Mike and Catherine Burke were stunned when they received a rejection letter from the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF). Their dream of becoming parents through foster care had been denied due to their religious beliefs.
“We were absolutely devastated to learn that Massachusetts would rather children sleep in the hallways of hospitals than let us welcome children in need into our home,” the couple said, according to Fox News.
The Burkes were told that they “would not be affirming to a child who identified as LGBTQIA,” and that, in order to become foster parents, they would need to “promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of a child placed in his or her care, including supporting and respecting a child’s sexual orientation or gender identity.”
Unfortunately, such progressive policies make it difficult, if not virtually impossible, for those who subscribe to the Catholic faith to foster children in Massachusetts. However, just because the Burkes hold such beliefs does not mean they would not make wonderful parents. On the contrary, their devotion to the Catholic faith would provide an invaluable source of comfort and guidance to children experiencing trauma in the foster system.
“As faithful Catholics, the Burkes believe that all children should be loved and supported, and they would never reject a child placed in their home,” the lawsuit stated. “They also believe that children should not undergo procedures that attempt to change their God-given sex, and they uphold Catholic beliefs about marriage and sexuality.”
Sadly, it’s those same Catholic beliefs that make the couple unfit to foster in the eyes of the Massachusettes DCF. One can only imagine the devastating effects this ruling would have on a child, especially in a time of their life when they need the most support. A child in foster care needs an environment in which they are protected and loved, not a place that seeks to push an agenda and impose a certain lifestyle.
The Burkes are being represented by the religious liberty group, Becket Law, and their case raises questions about freedom of expression and faith. The Burkes are not looking to push their views on anyone, nor do they wish to discriminate against anyone, they just want to provide a loving home to a child in need.
Unfortunately, despite the fact that the Burkes are more than qualified to become foster parents, they may never have the chance to share the love and support they have to give because of their faith. As Albert Einstein once said, “The world is a dangerous place to live; not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don’t do anything about it.” It’s time to take a stand for the Burkes and for the countless kids who are in need of a nurturing home.