Outreach To Lesbians, Bisexuals, Gays and Transgendered Community

University Mission Statement “Villanova seeks to reflect the spirit of St. Augustine by the cultivation of knowledge, by respect for individual differences, and by the adherence to the principle that mutual love and respect should animate every aspect of University life.”

OASIS (outreach to LBGT) is a group of concerned students and friends who meet and discuss personal issues pertaining to sexual orientation.

OASIS participants share with one another stories of affirmation as well as alienation. Discussion and dialogue encourage participants to act responsibly in dealing with issues of exclusivity, aloneness and condemnation. Direct exchanges and honest conversations are critical in the opportunity for personal, moral and educational growth.

OASIS is open to all students who are willing to deal with such issues and are willing to accept those who are different from themselves.

Confidentiality is critical for those who are drawn to these discussions, and all self-disclosures are treated with utmost respect.

A particular aspect of OASIS is the opportunity for the development of true friendship. In the spirit of St. Augustine, Villanova University seeks to provide an atmosphere for wholesome relationships conducive to authentic community. Members of OASIS benefit from the promise of this Augustinian charism.

“Throughout his life Augustine formed communities dedicated to Christian friendship and the ongoing pursuit of truth. At Villanova, in the tradition of Augustine, our love of God, our respect and love for each other, give rise to our common sense of purpose, our unity. Through this human and personal dynamic, we encourage and empower one another in our search for and witness to the truth - veritas, unitas, caritas.” Fr. Edmund Dobbin, O.S.A.

U.S. Bishop’s Statement “Every person has an inherent dignity because he or she was created in God’s image. A deep respect for the total person leads the church to hold and teach that sexuality is a gift of God. Being created a male or female person is an essential part of the divine plan, for it is their sexuality- a mysterious blend of spirit and body- that allows human beings to share in God’s own creative love and life. ‘Everyone should acknowledge and accept his sexual identity.’” “Always Our Children” (NCCB)

“A Catholic university pursues its objectives through the formation of an authentic human community animated by the Spirit of Christ. The source of its unity springs from a common dedication to the truth, a common vision of dignity of the human person, and ultimately the person and message of Jesus Christ, which gives the institution its distinctive character.” Ex Corde Ecclesiae, John Paul II

Villanova's LBGT group, OASIS meets on regular evenings throughout the semester.

For further information contact Father Joe Calderone at calderone@law.villanova.edu or 610-519-7477. Students can also receive information at OASIS@villanova.edu. We will discreetly respond to all legitimate requests with the location and time of the meeting. The purpose of the group is to provide an open and supportive atmosphere for students who must deal with issues of sexual difference. All meetings are completely confidential.

Villanova's Gay Straight Coalition: http://www.villanova.edu/studentlife/office/supportservices/gaystraight