On May 30th the spark re-ignited.  It was a spring evening in the small community of Santee, a little known suburb of San Diego, CA.  At 8 p.m., May 30th, 1972 at the home of Pat McArron, Dignity was rekindled in San Diego. There in his little condo, gathered an even dozen Catholic men & women (not all gay) to discuss the idea of establishing a working chapter of a new organization called DIGNITY.

Among those present were Angela Savoie, Mary Tasaro (both former nuns), Adam Alexander, Patrick McSweeney, & Patrick McArron. In the course of that evening they would come to agree that indeed there was a need for such an organization in San Diego. After all, this is where it began in 1969 with an idea from a Catholic priest, Fr. Patrick X. Nidorf, OSA. And so it was...that DIGNITY came back to San Diego for good. Little did we know then what would take place over the next 20 + years. Following the birth of the chapter came rapid growth. It was obvious to all present at that first gathering that DIGNITY's time had come. Letters from all over the country had already begun to pour into the L.A. DIGNITY mailbox. Inquiries generated from the San Diego area were forwarded to us on a regular basis. It was an exciting time, a pioneering time. Stonewall had only happened 3 years earlier, and the Rev. Troy Perry had just started a Metropolitan Community Church in 1968. The gay movement was truly in its infancy and DIGNITY was right there almost from the start."

We immediately set about establishing an address to which people could write. The first address was a PO Box in the San Carlos Post Office. Among the orders of business that first night in May was to set a date for the second meeting and to collect dues for membership. Top

Unfortunately we have no record of what took place during the months of June - October 1972. The first San Diego Chapter Newsletter on record is for the month of Nov. 1972 and it was hand printed and mimeographed for distribution. For the first 5 years, Pat McArron would be the editor of the Chapter Newsletter.

During the formative months of the chapter we were attending Mass as a group at either the Immaculata or Christ the King. In November we organized an overnight trip to DIGNITY/LA and to see a production of "Norman is that you?" in Hollywood. By November we were holding our Monthly Meetings at 2535 C St. in Golden Hill. That was the home of one of the charter members. In the month of December we continued to group together for various social functions and we even conducted a Board Meeting at Oscar's restaurant, just below USD Campus. If only Bishop Maher had known what was going on just under his nose back then! We held the first of many Annual Christmas Parties. We didn't waste anytime raising money either. We held our first fund raiser - a drawing of raffle tickets at that party. The prize: A Crystal Chandelier donated by one of our charter members, Sam Bazille. We also drew names for what would become another annual tradition, the Epiphany Party, at which time we would exchange gifts with one another. The Masthead of the Dec. Newsletter (typed) contained the following byline:

In that newsletter, Pat McArron writes:

It was decided at that meeting that indeed Dignity would hold its first National Convention in Hollywood over the Labor Day weekend. The article goes on to say:

At the March 10th Meeting Fr. Pat Nidorf rapped with the group and celebrated Mass with us at Bert & Tom Popeney's home in the Lake Murray area. No newsletters were produced for the months of Mar & Apr. Top

Along with the new name, the masthead of the June Newsletter also includes for the first time a logo which was designed for Dignity in L.A. and would for some time be the logo used by the National Office as well. It is a square with a heart inside with a cross at the top of the heart and inside the heart are 2 pairs of male & female symbols intertwined. It is noted that in June Brad would be transferred by the Navy to Guam. Four members of the Board attended the April Meeting of the L.A. Chapter and gave a report on progress in San Diego.  Top

Our May Board Meeting was held at the San Diego State Newman Center. The general meeting for that month was held at the SDSU Intersection House with a guest lecturer from the Planning Committee for the Gay Center for Social Services, Bernie Michels. The June Hummingbird indicated that future general meetings would be held in the vicinity of SDSU making easier for all to attend. Also in that issue it was noted that the chapter had initiated a Hospital Visitation Program. And the first chapter obituary appeared in that issue. Roland Starck, 60, died May 15 1973. The first excerpt from a Dignity (National) Newsletter appeared in that issue as well. By this time Sunday Brunches in members' homes were becoming a popular event for the chapter.

The July Hummingbird listed a Chapter "Hotline" for the first time. A Phone # where messages can always be left 24 hours a day. That phone was located at Pat McArron's home in Santee. It was announced that 1000 business cards were being printed and would be made available at the July Meeting, as well as 50 Flyers for distribution. The July General Meeting was held at the SDSU Lutheran Center, with a Mass celebrated by Fr. John Crillo, SJ formerly from Christ the King parish.

In August it was announced that Fr. John Crillo had left Christ the King and that he had "been dismissed (released) from the Jesuit Order and that he is excommunicated from the Church." Members of the chapter were urged to write to his provincial in his defense. With his marriage to Sally, Fr. John would become the first married priest to celebrate Mass with us and be a chaplain to us. We purchased an ad in the first issue of the Pacific Coast Times, San Diego's first gay news publication. Four new members are welcomed to the Chapter: Ray H. & Glenn D., Sam Q., and Scott L. (who agrees to take over the position of corresponding secretary).  Top

The Sept 1973 issue of the Hummingbird was the first 11x17 format and the largest to date with 4 pages. A report was given on the first Dignity National Convention: Toni Nemow & Pat McArron were the official delegates from the chapter. The San Diego and San Francisco chapters were the only 2 out of 9 represented by a male & female. The issue of sexism was taken on by the chapter almost from its beginning and we led the way for inclusive language in the worship services and maintained the importance of involving women at every level of Dignity. In fact at the first convention both San Francisco & San Diego were considered "radical" in their approach. It was also reported in that issue that Toni Nemow was now the Co-Chairperson of the San Diego Chapter. At the Sept General Meeting it was decided to apply for tax-exempt status from the IRS.

In October the Chapter began holding its Monthly meetings & Mass at the newly opened Gay Center, located at 2250 B St. The popular Monthly Sunday Brunches moved into the Gay Restaurants in town. The first such brunch was held at the Club, corner of Laurel & India. Price per person: $1.25 for steak, eggs, hash browns, toast & coffee. How times have changed since then.

In the November Hummingbird we carried a memorial to Ray Ortan Street, the "devoted companion to Rev. John Hose, pastor of MCC/San Diego." It is also announced that the Brunch at the Club will be $2.00 with .75 cents of that amount going into the treasury to help pay for the Newsletter.

The December newsletter reports that "after only two meetings (at the Gay Center) we now find ourselves being nomadic....." due to the chapter's growth. There wasn't enough space. The newsletter went on to proudly state that

Our Annual Meeting was held on Feb. 8 at the Gay Center on B St.

Elections were as follows:

• Chairperson: Pat McArron (3rd term)
  Co-Chairperson: Toni Nemow
  Recording Secretary: Charles M.
  Corresponding Secretary: Jim J.
  Treasurer: Philip Eadon (Erdelsky)

The following would Chair various committees:

• Pat McArron: Religious & Educational Programs Committee
• Charles M.: Eschatological His-tory Committee
• Philip E.: Social Programs Committee
• Jan Germane: Eschatological Her-story Committee

As of Jan. 1 we had a net worth of $120.00. Wow!

We made history on Sunday evening, Feb. 24th with Pat McArron's appearance as Co-Chair of the chapter on the Channel 8 TV program called Telepulse. Dignity/San Diego went public for the first time. Pat participated in a panel along with Rev. John Hose, pastor of MCCSD, Rev. Ed Hansen, pastor of Chollas View Methodist Church, Rev. Neil Voight, A Benedictine Monk (a friend), and Jerry Jameson, author of the book The Gay Church. Discussion centered around whether or not homosexuals should be accepted by the churches. The telephone poll generated by the TV program showed that viewers favored such acceptance by a two-to-one margin. The panel was well padded in favor of gays, not to mention that we had a lot of sympathizers watching the show.

On March 16 we co-sponsored a fund raising Dance with MCC-SD. The event was billed as a 1950's Sock Hop and was called GREEN GRAFFITI. A $1.00 donation was requested. That same day Pat McArron participated in a panel discussion at a convention of the Community College Social Sciences Association at the Hilton Inn on Mission Bay. Joining him on the panel was a representative of the Gay Center for Social Services. On the cover of the April Newsletter a drawing of a Hummingbird is added to the Masthead.  Top

Another historic occasion took place on Sunday, March 17 (St. Patrick's Day) when Dignity/San Diego and the Metropolitan Community Church of San Diego held an ecumenical service at Chollas View Methodist Church! The event was especially notable because it was the first such event between Dignity & MCC. Also in March the Executive Board established a membership fund to pay the local and national dues for persons who want to join Dignity but can not afford to pay dues.

In May, Pat McArron, Toni Nemow & Jan Germane resigned from their positions on the board effective with the May 18 general meeting of the chapter. Concern over sexist attitudes were sighted as one of the reasons for the resignations. At this point the chapter was forced to deal with sexism for the first time.

It was reported in the June Hummingbird that we had an overflow crowd at the May 19 Sunday Brunch at Skippers in La Jolla. And the Hummingbird carried classified advertising for the first time. It was also noted that the chapter newsletter was really getting around. The Cincinnati Chapter of Dignity reprinted an article which had appeared in the April issue. It was announced that the stage was being set by the chapter to establish a chapter in the Riverside/San Bernardino area. It is important to note that at this time in the chapter's history the San Diego Diocese was one of the largest geographical Catholic dioceses in the country.  Top

In June the chapter participated in the first Gay Pride Week in San Diego (another first for the chapter).

In July we again made a trip to the L.A. Chapter as their guests. It was reported that the monthly brunch (at Skippers in La Jolla) was the most successful to date and that was at $2.25 per person. The following is excerpted from the July editorial:

While we are understandably excited about the new chapter, and rightly so, we must not forget the needs of our founding chapter here in San Diego.

I can't help but marvel at the suggestive coincidences regarding DIGNITY in our diocese. San Diego is the birthplace of the Catholic Church on the west coast, Mission San Diego de Alcala, as well as the birthplace of the DIGNITY organization which has since grown nationwide and continues to grow at rapid rate.

It was in 1769 that the Franciscans brought Christianity to these shores in the Harbor of the Sun. It was in 1969, exactly 200 years later, that a very concerned Augustinian priest and a group of men gave birth to the DIGNITY organization. Of course none of them had (any) idea at that time just what they had started.

Since that momentous time in 1969 DIGNITY has helped hundreds of Catholic women and men achieve a harmony between their religious beliefs on the one hand and their sexual reality on the other. DIGNITY has given many a Roman Catholic a fresh outlook on life and has been the setting for many a new friendship and, in some cases, lasting relationships. DIGNITY has been responsible for bringing to the attention of our bishops the tremendous harm that has been done to thousands of gay women and men throughout the church because of misguided moral theology. DIGNITY is far more than a social club or guild within the Catholic Church. It is a reason to believe in one's own worth not in spite of being a homosexual but because of it. It is an opportunity to awaken the minds of the total community to the fact that gay people are human beings with feelings and are far from being sick or sinful when they are being sexual person. DIGNITY is what its name implies, an association, a fellowship, an organization dedicated to restoring all people to the mystical body of Christ while affirming the goodness and dignity of every person be he/she gay or not gay. 'It is not what you are that matters so much as what you do with what you are.' "

The August Hummingbird reported that the positions of both Co.-Chairs were still vacant and that Philip E. was the Acting Chapter Chairperson. Also listed for the first time as the Chaplains: Fr. Neil Voight and Fr. Bernie Cassidy. It was suggested that we consider moving the monthly Masses back into the homes of chapter members until we could locate a more appropriate location than the Gay Center. The gatherings at the Gay Center were putting a strain on the operation of the center. We asked for membership input concerning this issue. A warm welcome was extended to two new members: Walter Kay, and Tom Garnett. Both of these members would soon become very active & prominent in the Chapter's growth. Sam Quiroz was listed as the Chapter Secretary. A cartoon in that edition of the Hummingbird carried the caption: "Gospel or no gospel, a successful pot luck requires working Marthas, not talking Marys."  Top

A fund Raising Committee was established with new member Tom Garnett as it's first chair. It was reported in the Sept Hummingbird that the couple Sam Bazille and Al Smith had renewed their membership in the chapter. Al Smith has been a very important part of Metropolitan Community Church in San Diego from its beginning and Sam was the chapter's first Black member. Also note-worthy was the announcement that the treasurer & acting Board Chairman, Philip Erdelsky had been made Editor of the MCC Prodigal publication (and Phil wasn't even a member of MCC). As a departure from the "dining out" brunches, Walt & Bill played host to the September "Champagne" Brunch (and the price was a mere $2.25). Sept 1974 was also an infamous month for San Diego. That is when 45 arrests were made in the men's room of the Mission Valley May Co. As part of a community outrage at the manner in which these arrests were conducted & subsequently reported, the Dignity chapter responded with a letter of condemnation to the May Co. We urged all of the members to also send letters of protest to the May Co, the San Diego Police Dept., the Union Tribune and the El Cajon Californian. The same cover article goes on to say:

The October Hummingbird welcomed new members Charles & John.

November 1974 would prove to be a major milestone month for us. Top

That was the headline in the November Hummingbird. For the first time since the chapter's humble beginnings we received the "happy welcome" to worship and to gather socially at the Catholic Cardijn Center in Old Town. This would be the chapter's home for several years to come. The big day was Saturday, November 9 at 7:30 pm. Fr. Bernie Cassidy, SJ led us in the celebration of Mass followed by the monthly Potluck Supper.

Fr. Bernie, in a quiet moment during the evening, blessed Martha & Angie's relationship, thus making this DIGNITY/San Diego's first Holy Union. A record crowd was in attendance for the evening. It was an exciting moment for us all. In November we welcomed Chery and Bud as new members of the chapter

Not all DIGNITY events have been well attended. On Nov. 24 only three of us (Philip E., Pat McArron, & Steve Swenson) took the train to Los Angeles for a DIGNITY day of sightseeing and dinner with some of the Los Angeles Dignity Chapter members.

On December 22, 1974 we came together for our 3rd annual Christmas Party. And in December we, as a chapter, went Christmas Caroling to shut ins for the first time.

Our total income for the year was $729.00 and the expenses: $713.00.

In the words of the Treasurer, Philip Erdelsky :

On January 6 we held the 3rd annual Epiphany Party. The January issue of the Hummingbird listed the duties of all eight elective Board Members, and printed in it's entirety the first set of proposed by-laws. In appreciation for the use of the Cardijn Center as the Meeting place and out of a sense of pride in the new home we organized a work party on January 24 to paint the Hall & the Kitchen.

Another major first for the chapter was the exposure we received as a result of a lengthy headline article which appeared in the Life News, and the Chula Vista Star (combined circulation of 500,000) The article was an interview with Pat McArron at his home in Santee and this was the headline which drew so much attention:

Denny D. (Martha Beltz) and Angela Savoie donated a beautiful enameled earthenware Chalice and Paten for the Monthly celebration of the Mass. John P and Paul R. were welcomed as new members. The February Hummingbird includes, for the first, an application for membership. Requests were made for donations of Blue Chip stamps (Remember those? )to purchase a Coffee Urn for the Chapter.

The new roster of officers for 1975:

• Walter A. Kay - President
• Renee Wilson - Vice President
• Philip Erdelsky - Secretary & Treasurer
   
  • John Pomis - Spiritual Development & Education Chair
  • Joe Denise - Social Events Chair
  • Thomas G. - Fund Raising Chair
  • Pat McArron - Communications Chair

   Top

We were honored in March with a visit from Brian McNaught and Ed of Detroit. On Sunday afternoon, March 9, "some of us gathered at Tom Garnet's home (on Union St.) for what turned out to be one of the most IN-DEPTH Rap sessions we've had in a long time." Concern was expressed that there was not enough information coming out about the forthcoming Second Dignity Convention to be held in Boston. As a result, reservations from the membership was falling short of expectations. The March Hummingbird, for the first time, erroneously states in the Masthead that we have been "Serving the Gay Catholic population of the San Diego Diocese since 1971."

In April the chapter played host to the second Golden State Conference of Dignity Chapters. We even put together a Special Conference issue of the Hummingbird for the month of April. An article which appeared in that issue is worth noting here. It was written by Philip Erdelsky:

A grand total of 80 persons attended that Regional Conference at the peak of the weekend. Five priests concelebrated the Saturday night Mass: Fr. Dick form San Francisco, Fr. Paul and Fr. Mel from Los Angeles, and Fr. Neil and Fr. Leo from San Diego.

Honored guests at the supper, each of whom spoke a few words to the gathering, were Deacon David Farrell of MCC/San Diego, Br. Ben Gardner, member-at- large and a leader of dialogue among the Episcopal gay sisters and brothers, Rev. Jim Fleck, SJ formerly a chaplain of the Cincinnati Chapter and author of the DIGNITY statement to the US Catholic Bishops in 1973, Rev. Leo Davis, chaplain of the Cardijn Center, and finally Patrick X. Nidorf, founder of DIGNITY. When Pat was introduced he received a lengthy standing ovation which noticeably brought tears to his eyes. Pat's presence among us was very meaningful to us all. This was his first public appearance with DIGNITY in over two years.

At their April meeting the "Executive Board" of the chapter voted to honor Patrick X. Nidorf with the first Lifetime Honorary membership in the chapter in "recognition for his unparalleled service to the gay Catholic population by establishing the first and only concrete means for bringing together gay Catholic women and men everywhere in the name of DIGNITY."

Another historical first took place for on April 28 when Dignity of San Diego was videotaped by KPBS at San Diego State University. Representing the chapter at that historic occasion were: Walter Kay, Patty Coon, Ray T. Geordan (Tom Garnett), and Patrick McArron. The video tape was made available by the criminal justice dept. at SDSU to all students and teachers for their use in advancing their knowledge and others on the subject of homosexuality in a positive light.

On May 23, John Ranallo, who had become a friend to us all, was ordained to the priesthood and we were all invited to attend. Congratulations were also extended, in the June Hummingbird, to Rea & Rita celebrating their first anniversary, and to Walt & Bill who were celebrating their 10th anniversary. The chapter's third obituary appeared at this time: Raymond Bartholomew died on April 30 of a heart attack at Mercy Hospital. Ray had come to us in March as a transfer member from Los Angeles. Even though Ray was Episcopalian he chose to be a part of the community. The June 14 Mass was dedicated to his memory.

On Sunday, June 8, we helped MCC celebrate their first worship service in their very own church for the first time. The June Hummingbird was the first Newsletter to be mailed at the Bulk Mail Rate (which is considerably cheaper than first class). We participated in San Diego's second annual "Gay Pride" Parade in downtown on June 28. We all gathered at Hobo Park in the morning and marched down Broadway to Balboa Park where the day culminated with a Rally. Along the parade route we had a Police Motorcycle escort. The entry in the parade was a "Dignity" station-wagon.

Our informal rap group sessions went from a monthly format to a weekly format in August. With the Aug. Newsletter we began offering additional levels of membership in the chapter: In addition to single and couple we offered Contributing: $25.00, Sustaining: $50.00, Supporting: $75.00, and Lifetime: $100.00. We reported that over 250 friends of the chapter were reading the Hummingbird each month. Only three of the members [Denny (Martha Beltz), Walter Kay, and Patrick McArron] attended the second DIGNITY Convention, which was held in Boston Aug. 29 - Sept 1. Over 350 people were in attendance at that convention and it was considered a huge success by the members. As of Sept 1 we listed 28 people as members of the chapter. Top

The front page of the October newsletter carried the following headline:

That Mass was scheduled for Sept 28, 1975. A new committee had been established by the board, the Social Action Committee, to help carry out one of the purposes of DIGNITY as stated in the Statement of Position & Purpose. Sept 14 we circulated a petition at Christ the King Church in behalf of civil rights for GAYS and we were well received by the congregation.

A special letter of introduction about DIGNITY in San Diego was mailed to all of the pastors in San Diego & Imperial counties. At this point in the chapter's history we had 10 priests in the diocese on record as chaplains we could count on for support and assistance. And as of Oct. 1 we reported having 25 members in the chapter. For the first time ever we printed a membership application on the front page of the newsletter in October. Weekly informal rap sessions were short lived and canceled this month. Oct. 11, was another special evening for the chapter. At the monthly Potluck that night following the Mass, the featured guest was Patrick X. Nidorf, who was presented with an award form the second National Convention. And, of course, he received a standing ovation from all present. In October we received considerable coverage in the San Diego Union-Tribune as well as the editorial column in the Southern Cross as a direct result of a news release that we sent out about the massive letter campaign to all of the priests of the diocese.

Ms Jean Holtz, a former Dominican nun, age 31, was the guest speaker at the monthly potluck in November. Her take was about her work in the NOW. organization and in Dignity/Inland Empire. It was noted that Jean would be the first woman featured speaker and that she was a coordinator of NOW in Riverside & a co-founder of the Inland Empire Chapter of Dignity. On Nov. 16 DIGNITY Inc. Called upon all of the chapters to participate in a National Day of Fasting to call attention to the need for "Liberty & Justice for All" as announced by the US Catholic Bishops for this year. As of November we had "13 priests serving us in the capacity of counselors, confessors, Mass celebrants, and as friend." Fr. John announced that he would be conducting a bi-weekly course in Judaic Scripture beginning Nov. 5 for all Dignity members and interested persons from MCC. The course would last approx. 4 - 5 months and would end with a weekend retreat.

The December '75 issue of the Hummingbird reported that the second Regional Conference of Dignity Chapters, held in Los Angeles, was well attended by the chapter with 7 members. Four anniversaries were celebrated at the November Potluck and "many thanks" were extended "to our newest member" for the generous donation of $100.00 for a Lifetime membership in the chapter. It was announced that Joe Anthony resigned from his position as Social Programs Chair. "Sam Q. was still in a body cast." From the Dec. Editorial:

In the first Hummingbird of the new year the following announcement was made which at the time was a big deal:

In February we devoted the entire front cover to Tom and we returned to a full sized 11 x 17 Format and this was the sad Headline:

The entire front page was written by "Maryanne Cartier" (Angela Savoie). In that article she gave us all the encouragement to carry on where Tom left off:

The Chapter President, Walter Kay, wrote the following heartfelt message in his column:

Another edition of the Hummingbird and this time the headline was cause for celebration and thanks giving:

Beginning in March we started celebrated the "Masses for the Gay Community" every week at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday. Also appearing on the cover was the announcement that Michael Newman, editor of the Southern Cross, would be the guest speaker at the March 13 Potluck Supper. There were lots of newsworthy announcements at this time in the chapter's growth. The treasurer reported that for the year 1975 we had a total income of $1,333.00 and total expenses of $1,306.00.

Officers elected at the Feb. Meeting were:

• Walter Kay - Pres
• Maryann Cartier - Vice-Pres
• Joey Anthony - Secretary
• Phil Eadon - Treasurer

Committee Chairs:

• Spiritual Dev. & Education - William Lewis
• Liturgy - Paul
• Fund Raising - Milt P
• Social Programs - Carla
• Social Action - Joe S
• Communications - Pat McArron.

Integrity, the Episcopalian counterpart would be celebrating their first Holy Eucharist in San Diego on March 6 at the Episcopal Community Services Center on Market St.  Top

On March 8 a benefit was held in the evening at the Show Biz Supper Club on University Ave in Hillcrest. It was sponsored by the Peoples Imperial Court of San Diego. Empress Nicole was a member of Dignity at that time. With the March edition, the $100.00 Lifetime membership category was dropped from the membership application. Attention was called to the fact that we now had fifteen priests giving of their time and talents to the chapter and that four of those were dues-paying members.

The whole front cover of the April Hummingbird was a copy of a letter received from Michael Newman in which he declined to speak at the March 13 gathering. In it he stated:

Well, I think it is safe to say that we complied with his request. The Benefit held in the chapter's behalf last month netted us $328.00 at the door and the performers gave us the full amount of their tips ($90.00) plus a $50.00 donation from the management of the Show Biz. Not bad for a group of Gay Catholics less than 4 years old! A warm welcome was extended to new members: Edward R., John R, and Dennis S.

Our chapter conducted a survey of its members for the very first time at the March Potluck. According to the survey: an overwhelming majority favored more involvement in the San Diego community as a whole and everyone without exception liked something about the weekly Mass celebrations. The majority favored celebrating the Mass at the Cardijn Center rather than a Church with the comment that we weren't a large enough community as yet to warrant a Church. Most indicated a desire to participate in a Dignity Retreat Weekend.

In response to members' requests, a group blood account was established at the San Diego Blood Bank. Perhaps, if that account is no longer active, we could re-activate it.

In May we announced that we were gearing up for what would be the second known Workshop for Priests on the subject of Ministry to Gays, sponsored by a chapter of Dignity in this country. Nearly 400 invitations had been mailed out by first class mail to virtually every priest in San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino and Imperial counties. A film on Catholic homosexuals by Fr. James Fleck, SJ would be featured followed by a panel discussion and small group encounters. A luncheon would also be served. This would be the biggest project the chapter had undertaken to date.

A quarterly report from the treasurer showed that we had a cash balance of $644.45 as of March 31, 1976. Ads are welcomed from the gay community in the May Hummingbird. Walter Kay appeared on a panel in a television special about homosexuality and religion on May 2.  Top

On May 16, Walter Kay graciously accepted the first annual Gary Dores Memorial Award in behalf of Dignity of San Diego. The award was presented to the Chapter for outstanding service to the Gay Community. Gary Dores was a bartender in the gay community who had been shot to death while working at the bar. Gary was also a gay Catholic. The award was presented to us at the annual Imperial Court Coronation Ball at the El Cortez Hotel.

Also in May, twelve of the members participated in a fantastic West Coast Conference of Dignity Chapters. The 4-day event took place over the Memorial Day Weekend. It should be noted that all lodging for that conference was provided by the members of Dignity/San Francisco and round-trip airfare from San Diego was only $52.00.

The June 1976 Hummingbird was the first 12 page newsletter ! It even included a centerfold: 3 reprints from the National Catholic Reporter. It was pointed out that at that time in the chapter's history the San Diego Catholic Diocese was the largest geographical diocese in the nation with 35,879 square miles and more than 500,000 Catholics. In that issue we began a series of reprints each month from the first comprehensive positive booklet of questions and answers about homosexuality and the Catholic Church. The booklet, Homosexual Catholics: A Primer for Discussion, contains 35 questions and answers. It was published by Dignity/National and sold for $1.50. Even by today's standards it is an excellent publication. So for the next several months we would print a question and answer from that booklet. Top

On June 18 we sponsored the Gay Ministry Workshop with Fr. Tom Oddo, Dignity National Secretary, as the keynote speaker. He addressed more than 60 participants. The Workshop was considered a huge success. The following evening Tom and several Dignity/San Diego chaplains concelebrated the fifth (fourth) Anniversary Mass. The big weekend culminated with a brunch at the Rheinlander House in La Jolla with Tom as the chapter's guest. On June 27 we again participated in the Gay Pride Parade. Top

And with those words in the headline on the July Hummingbird we made history. It was the culmination of more than two and a half years of negotiations and paper trails. We were one of the first chapters in the country if not the first to obtain the coveted IRS 501(c)(3) non-profit tax exemption. In fact we achieved this status before Dignity Inc. Even the National Gay Task Force (NGTF) wrote to us asking for a copy of the chapter's exemption to help support a similar application by the Fund for Human Dignity. The Federal exemption became effective June 14, 1976 followed by a state exemption on Sept 4, 1976.

We held the first Day of Recollection on August 21, 1976 at John & Earls' beautiful Oakhurst Estate in Lakeside. In August we published the first 2-color issue of the Hummingbird. The colors? Red & Black. The editorial that month dealt with a hot issue; Sex & Promiscuity. It prompted a letter of congratulations from Sr. Jeannine Gramick of Baltimore, MD. Besides being co-director of the Quixote Center (a center for social action) she was also a chaplain to Dignity.

As a departure from the routine we held the Chapter Board Meeting outside of San Diego County for the first and only time. The reason for such an extraordinary occurrence was the fact that the then vice-president (Angela Savoie), who lives in Hemet, had never been able to participate in a board meeting since her election in February. So....since she couldn't come to the board meetings, we took the board meeting to her. Top

And so it did. There were 80 people in attendance at the August 14 Mass and Supper. Not bad for a young chapter.

Our treasurer reported in the Aug. bulletin that for the months of April-May-June the chapter's income was $815.84 and expenses were $1125.02.

In September we he held the first Yard Sale. We were able to remind everyone, happily, that all donations were IRS Tax deductible!

It was declared in the October Hummingbird that by popular demand the monthly Sunday Brunch would return Oct. 24th at King Richard's in La Jolla. This would be the first Sunday Brunch in over a year. Two romances that we know of actually started at the Brunches. In fact one of those romances has lasted to this day. Yours truly arranged to have Martha Beltz and Angela Savoie meet at one of Brunches at Skippers in La Jolla at , I believe, Martha's request. I introduced them to each other over a fruit salad. I kid you not. Are you one of those who might remember that La Jolla was the place for top-drawer Gay establishments?

The following is a noteworthy letter which was reprinted in the October 1976 Hummingbird:

(Ed. Note: Fr. Nugent is Co-director of the Quixote Center in Mt. Ranier, Maryland and has been a member and staunch supporter of DIGNITY for some time).

That same month we hosted the steering committee from the brand new chapter of Dignity / Orange County at their request. Once again, others looked to the leadership in San Diego for support and guidance.  Top

With the November Hummingbird came a few changes in it's appearance. The Heart in the Square Logo was dropped from the masthead and the masthead was itself modified.

We had the pleasure of Paul Diedrich's company, then president of Dignity Inc., during his vacation in October.

That was the third Headline to appear on the front page of the Nov. Hummingbird. This headline news item was considered so significant that it was expanded and the entire front page of the Dec. Newsletter was devoted to it.

The Treasurer's quarterly report for July-Sept showed that we took in $1284.00 and spent $ 655.00. The balance on Sept. 30, 1976 was a whopping $629.00.

On Nov. 28 we Brunched as a group at "a brand new gay bar and restaurant called the Bull Ring, located at 1355 5th between A and Ash Sts." Anyone out there remember that place?

We enjoyed a crowd of just under 65 persons at the November Mass and Thanksgiving Potluck. The scheduled priest for the evening Mass didn't arrive so at 7:30 we called on one of the many chaplains to come to the rescue. An hour later Mass began, followed by a very late "fantastic" dinner. A huge turkey was furnished by Dignity and cooked by Chris and Carla. The guest speaker for that evening was Bob Howarth, the membership chairman for the host community, the Cardijn Center. He delivered an informative slide program about the Center's history and growth.

The following is an excerpt from the chapter president's Christmas message in the December Hummingbird, 1976:

It should be noted that in that newsletter everyone was informed that all contributions to the chapter were now exempt from Calif. State tax as well as Federal tax. It was also noted that the chapter constitution was adopted on November 4, 1973. In July the Dignity International Office agreed to divert all funds received from Dignity of San Diego into a special fund to be used for religious purposes. This was done to comply with a condition in the Federal exemption, but it also makes such funds deductible.

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For a change of pace the chapter went to the mountains for their first monthly Brunch of the year. It was an "All you can eat" Buffet including unlimited Bloody Mary's for the whopping price of $3.95. The location was the secluded Pine Hills Lodge, Julian which is still doing business today.

A Building Fund was established in January by the Board for the purpose of financing a Dignity Center for the chapter some day in the future. The Board also expanded the duties of the Fundraising Committee to include maintenance of the membership files and related functions. The new name for that committee would be Membership & Fundraising. Among the new responsibilities would be ways to increase membership, welcome new members, encourage renewals, and conduct follow-ups on past potential members.

It was first announced in the February Hummingbird that the Communications Committee would conduct research into the possibility of the San Diego Chapter hosting the 10th Anniversary Dignity International Convention in 1979.

At this point in time, the chapter had the Eucharistic services of 10 priests and the pastoral services of 30 priests. Nearly 40 priests were on the mailing list as well as Bishops Maher and Chavez.

The treasurer reported that for the year 1976 Dignity/San Diego took in $3232.97, spent $2446.62 and had cash assets at the end of the year totaling $ 952.00.

A damaging excerpt from the Southern Cross editorial was reprinted in the Feb. Hummingbird. All persons on the chapter mailing list were urged to write to the editor for his "Opinion Forum".

The chapter board members received a cordial written invitation to help Dignity/Orange County celebrate its charter.

On February 12 the following persons were elected to serve the chapter in 1977:

• President -- Carla Kaesbauer
• Vice-Pres. -- John Michael
• Secretary -- Mark Anthony
• Treasurer -- Cliff

• Committee Chairs:
  • Spiritual Dev. & Education -- Bob Sullivan
  • Social Action -- Joe Sigwart
  • Membership & Fundraising -- Milt
  • Social Activities -- Paul Stearns
  • Communications -- Dennis Flahive
    

In the March Hummingbird readers were asked to submit ideas for a chapter logo. Dennis Flahive becomes the new editor. The chapter has over 90 members.

The chapter acquired a new mailing address for the first time since the chapter began in 1972. The new address would be PO Box 33367, San Diego CA 92103 (in Hillcrest), and the new phone # would be (714) 275-0234. Remember that area code? The "popular Monthly Sunday Brunch" resumed. Easter Sunrise service was held at the Oakhurst Estate in Lakeside. May newsletter: Bishop refuses our cash donation to the diocese. Chapter Board agrees to bid for the 10th Anniversary DIGNITY Convention in San Diego, with Pat McArron to Chair the event. "Since 1971" is dropped from the masthead with the June Newsletter. On June 9th we adopted a new Chapter Logo. Mikki Fenn and Becky Thatcher are listed as the editors with the July edition.

A very successful Day of Recollection was held at Oakhurst in August. Also in August we had our monthly Potluck at Marston Hall next door to the Cardijn Center. Top

Dimensions is born

The Sept edition of the chapter newsletter carries the new name DIMENSIONS as part of the masthead. The name for the newsletter was the brainstorm of Walter Kay, our past president.

San Diego in Spotlight at National Convention in Chicago

At the National Convention of DIGNITY in Chicago over Labor Day Weekend our very own Walter Kay and Carla Kaesbauer were elected National President and National Secretary along with Madeline Ritchie of San Francisco who was elected National Treasurer. At that convention it was also decided that the National Office would be relocated to San Diego, the birthplace of DIGNITY. The new address would be on Sixth Avenue in Hillcrest. This transition, however, would last only until the next convention. Top

 Fr. John McNeil, S.J. is Silenced

At the Chicago Convention it was announced that Fr. John McNeil, a pioneer in the struggles of the gay Catholic, was no longer to speak on issues of homosexuality and the Church. John was silenced by the Vatican.

On Nov. 19 our chapter leaders represented us at the PFLAG Conference in Los Angeles. Ballots were included with the Nov. Dimensions to determine if we should move our weekly Mass from Saturday to Sunday. The Board ends the practice of sponsoring Home Masses on weekends. Top

On November 20, in Orange County, Pat McArron was elected to be the first Regional Director for the newly formed Region IX. As director it would be Pat's responsibility to assist the chapters in California & Nevada as they continue to grow and to Regional meetings. It would also be the responsibility of the newly formed position to maintain a constant line of communication with the national officers.

Six members from our chapter went on an unforgettable Train Trip to Puerto Penasco, Mexico. It was unforgettable for several reason - 2 people got sick the following day (Montezuma's Revenge) all of us had a blast of a time, wind in our hair, sand in our teeth, wild bus ride, tons of delectable shrimp. Never to be forgotten, never to be repeated.

On Dec. 5, 1977 John Michael resigned his position as President of the Chapter for "multitudinous and irrevocable" reasons. CAS (Carol) would fill out the term until elections in Feb. '78. On Dec. 10 Earl Jordan resigned as Spiritual Development & Education Chair because of "personal reasons".

Nineteen people (9 women, 10 men) attended the Chapter sponsored Brunch at the Club in December. It was noted that all had a great time.

For the year the chapter's income was $3191.40 and expenses came to $3067.57.

The following letter to Pope Paul IX was reprinted in the Jan edition of Dimensions:

Jan 6, Sam & Al, once again hosted our annual Epiphany Party at the Edwardian Home in Golden Hill. Top

We have our own First Lady

At the 4th annual Nicky awards, Jan 29, Walter Kay was nominated for the presidential award, Carla was nominated for 1st Lady of San Diego, Mikki Fenn (our chapter editor) was nominated Writer of the Year, Joe received a nomination for the Imperial Service Award, while Dignity/San Diego received the Most Respected Organization nomination. Carla won the nomination for 1st Lady. Top

First National Resignation - Walter Kay Steps Down

With Walter Kay's sudden and unexpected resignation from the National Presidency of the organization, DIGNITY went into a state of emergency. The news of his resignation spread rapidly and DIGNITY was left in a daze. The announcement of his resignation was sent by him in writing to Pat McArron. It fell upon Pat to break the news to the National Secretary and National Treasurer (in San Diego). The Feb. Dimensions carried the announcement that Walter Kay had resigned as national president of DIGNITY. In a letter dated Jan 7, 1978 Carla Kaesbauer, acting President and Secretary, and Madeline Ritchie, Treasurer assured everyone that there was no cause for alarm and that they would keep everyone informed. A special meeting of the National Board would be called later on in the year.

In the same edition Pat McArron announced that he would not run again for an office on the local chapter board due to the responsibilities of his position as Regional Director. At that time Pat was Chairing the Social Events Committee.

Also in February the chapter secretary reported that attendance at Mass and social functions of the Chapter had "dropped tremendously" in the past months. In February the time of Sunday Mass would change from 6:30pm to 7 pm due to the needs of other groups at the Cardijn Center.

At the February 12 general membership meeting the following were elected to serve the chapter in 1978:

• President - CAS
• Vice President - Joey Mark Anthony
• Secretary - Cristina Noyes
• Treasurer - Philip Erdelsky
  
• Committees:
  • Spiritual Development - Mike
  • Membership & Fundraising - Pam Evans
  • Communications - Mikki Fenn
  • Social Action - Joseph Sigwart
  • Regional Reps - Cristina Noyes & Philip Erdelsky
  • Women's Caucus Rep - Cari

It was noted on the front cover of the March Dimensions that members approved by ballot that Dignity/San Diego would host the 1979 Int'l DIGNITY Convention. It was further noted that the chapter's officers and directors were installed by Pat McArron, Region IX Director. Our national officers, Carla and Madeline (also members of our local chapter) counted the ballots for the elections that evening. Top

In March the local chapter began holding monthly board meetings at the National Office on sixth Ave in Hillcrest. Easter Sunrise service, attended by 45 people including members of MCC, was held at 5:45 am at the home of the chapter VP in lieu of an evening Mass at the Cardijn Center.

In a Media alert for April it was stated that Anita Bryant would be mounting a campaign against the portrayal of homosexuality on TV as an alternative lifestyle. Cristina Noyes, chapter secretary reported in April that our local membership was now at 122.

DIGNITY Masses were moved to every other Sat in May. And members were encouraged to attend weekly Sunday Mass at Christ the King.

June was a big month for Dignity/San Diego. The chapter celebrated its 6th Anniversary with a special potluck at the Cardijn Center. Also in June it was announced that DIGNITY would be the beneficiary of two Benefit Performances at Hoover High Auditorium, "Two by Two" and "Godspell".  DIGNITY members were part of the casts of both productions and one of the chapter members directed "Godspell".  This month Home Masses resumed on a monthly basis. DIGNITY participated in the Gay Pride Parade, June 25, which then started at a place called Hobo Park in front of Bee Jay's gay bar.

Mikki Fenn tendered her resignation as director of communications. Cari becomes the new chapter newsletter editor. Top

Huge Mailing for New Ways Ministry Workshop

On August 12 we sponsored a one day workshop by New Ways Ministry at the Cardijn Center. Sr. Jeannine Gramick & Fr. Bob Nugent would be our guests. In preparation for this event the chapter put out a special mailing to 1400 addresses.

Weekly Mass returned on Sat Nov. 4th and home Masses would continue on the fourth Sat each month while the Potluck Suppers would continue on the second Sat.

It was announced in the Nov/Dec edition of the Dimensions that our Masses on the 1st, 3rd, & 5th Saturdays would now be held at the Chapel of Our Lady, Queen of Peace thanks to the invitation of the Fathers of the Good Shepherd. The chapel is located 3585 4th Ave.

DIGNITY/San Diego received a note of congratulations from congressman Bob Wilson following the granting of a US Dept. of Health, Education & Welfare study awarded to Sister Jeanine Gramick of New Ways Ministry. The study would be on "The coming Out Process and Coping Strategies of Gay Women." Because our chapter had obtained special tax exempt non-profit status from the IRS we would act as the study sponsor and grant administrator.

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Following months of confusion Dignity/San Diego announced that the weekly celebration of Mass would return to the Cardijn Center in Old Town and would be held at 7:30 pm every Saturday. The chapter would no longer sponsor home Masses and the popular monthly potluck suppers would continue on the second Saturday of each month.

Cari's last edition of the chapter newsletter was Feb. 1979. Between the months of March 1979 and March 1980 Pat McArron once again took up the editorship and the name of the Chapter Newsletter was temporarily changed back to "Hummingbird" for that period of time and "since 1972" was added. At the annual general membership meeting in Feb. the following persons were elected unopposed to serve a new term:

The regional retreat in Feb. sponsored by DIGNITY/San Diego was declared a huge success with a capacity crowd of 55 at Mission San Luis Rey Retreat Center. Participants came from chapters in San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Jose, San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, and Riverside. One person came all the way from Iowa. The retreat master was a Fr. Larry Tozzeo, OFM from the Bay Area. He would later be called upon to conduct another retreat at the same place by popular demand. Assisting Larry was a local member of our chapter, Hal Frank.

The Chapter Bylaws were changed in March to reflect the current needs of the chapter. Easter Sunrise Service was held April 15th at Joe & Larry's home at 4704 A St.......A Complete copy of the chapter's constitution and bylaws was included with the April Hummingbird as well as a two page flyer/application for the DIGNITY International 10th Anniversary convention hosted by DIGNITY of San Diego. Chris Patterson was elected as the second Regional Director of Region IX.

Starting in May the Executive Board decided to experiment with meeting twice a month....and Nicole was awarded Honorary Lifetime membership in our chapter. President Bob Nelson reported in the June Newsletter that membership had dropped to 46 members. In another article it was noted that the Cardijn Center was going to be sold. Bob Fettkether was elected Regional Rep from our chapter to fill the vacancy left by Chris when she was elected to the post of Regional Director. Several members went on a trip to Ensenada. We participated in the June 23rd Gay Pride Parade.

In July it was announced that a new Gay Ecumenical Council had been formed including DIGNITY, Integrity, Lutherans Concerned, Kinship, MCC and others. The group was formed June 14th under the banner "Ministries United for Gay Understanding". The first meeting was conducted on June 22nd at MCC/San Diego. Our chapter resumed monthly Board Meetings in August. Top

DIGNITY becomes front page news in the Diocese

The Sept 6, 1979 edition of the local diocesan paper, the Southern Cross, carried a full page article with picture on the front page!! The subject of the article was the DIGNITY Convention that had just been held here with 600 in attendance. This was a big moment for DIGNITY in San Diego.

In September our local chapter began using a local Answering Service to take all of our calls. After a six month trial period the Board would review this service. During that period anyone calling our "Hotline" would get a real person who could take messages and provide some limited information. Special Convention issue of the Hummingbird was printed for the 10th Anniversary International DIGNITY Convention. 600 conventioneers came to San Diego.

Following an informal survey of the local membership it was decided to keep Masses on Saturday evenings at 7:30pm. Rap group fro couples begins on Nov. 8th.

On Dec. 16 KGTV, Channel 10 carried a program during prime time (6:30pm) called "Challenge". This program is hosted by the Ecumenical Conference of San Diego. The subject of this program would be homosexuality. Our own Fr. Tom and Fr. Jim Fleck were the guest speakers.

For 1979 our Chapter started the year with a balance of $117.59 and took in $2822.58 in general funds and spent $2887.17.

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The Jan edition of the Hummingbird carried a special 4 page Flyer from our founder, Pat Nidorf, advertising a book he had just written about Dreams.

In Feb. it is noted that our chapter donated $25.00 to "Catholics for Human Dignity" the political action arm of DIGNITY/Los Angeles formed in 1978. As a result of our donation we would be listed as a benefactor.

At the Feb. 9 Annual Membership Meeting the following persons were elected to office:

• President - Judy Carton
• VP - Jim Dolar
• Secretary - Patricia Cutler
• Treasurer - Phil Emerzian
• Regional Rep - Michael Scott

On Feb. 10th, Judy presented the Imperial Court of San Diego with a check for $66.00 for the Children's Shoe Fund. In return Judy was surprised to be summoned forward and presented with a check for $100.00 by Empress Nicole. The court expressed a desire to once again rekindle the cooperation and support of our community. Then Judy was appointed their "Minister of Catholic Education" on their cabinet.

In March Judy , Chris Patterson (Regional Dir), and Mike Scott met with several priests at the seventh annual convention of the National Organization for Continuing Education of Roman Catholic Priests in San Diego. At that time they also handed out information on New Ways Ministry & PFLAG as well as DIGNITY.

Dimensions returned in April along with the new editor, Mike Scott. Top

DIGNITY/San Diego presents MCC with a $1000.00 check

In support of MCC's building fund, DIGNITY presented MCC with a check for $1000.00 which represented half the funds raised by the Court for the now dispersed DIGNITY Building Fund. This was done in a spirit of cooperation since DIGNITY would be using the MCC Church in the future.

The April edition would carry in the masthead for the last time the chapter logo which was a cross with the word DIGNITY spelled out and the cross superimposed in front the globe. In that same masthead appeared for the first time the new DIGNITY national logo with it's distinctive type font.

The Chapter printed 1000 copies of the May edition, which had 10 pages and used the new type font throughout.  Top

New Chapter Logo Adopted - New Image for Dignity/San Diego

As described on the front cover of the June Dimensions (12 page edition), Old Mission San Diego is the centerpiece of our new logo. It "represents a spiritual vision in practical form. Strong words are associated with this edifice. Words like Faith, Service, Dedication, Mission, Determination, Single heartedness and many others." The description goes on to read "We believe these words are also at the heart of Dignity's Statement of Position and Purpose. We have a mission that is nourished by faith, hope and love. We strive with courage to make the vision of DIGNITY a practical reality. We depend upon the power that comes from the Spirit." The logo emerged from a series of ideas from several people. Earl Storm, a local commercial artist, developed the final form.

On June 8 the chapter celebrated it's "9th" (8th) Anniversary in a very unique way. DIGNITY announced that a FREE Buffet would be available at The Club beginning at 6:00pm. A $1.00 donation was requested !! New Logo T-shirts would be available at the Anniversary for a mere $6.00.

Eleven members of the chapter participated in a DIGNITY Regional Conference held at Cal State Fullerton over the July 4th weekend. Guest Speakers at the event: Mathew Fox, Evelyn Hooker, & Fr. Larry Tozzeo. In all there were 150 in attendance. Our Chapter now numbers 75.

The Founders of PFLAG, Adele and Larry Starr, addressed our chapter on Saturday Aug. 23 at the Cardijn Center. Sept: we now have 77 members. Public witness was given by 15 members of our chapter at Christ the King parish as our way of participating in the DIGNITY International Prayer Vigil.

A favorite social function, the annual Epiphany Party is re-instated on Jan 6 at the home of Sam & Al in Golden Hill....San Diego participates in the Regional Business Meeting held in Feb. in San Francisco.

The following persons were elected Feb. 14 to serve the chapter for another year:

• President - Judy Carton
• VP - Steve M.
• Secretary - Mark Anthony
• Treasurer - Randy G.
• Regional Del - Albert C.
• Regional Del - Bruce Neveu

Our last Mass at the Cardijn Center was held on Saturday, March 28.

Bishop Maher attempts to cancel Advance Weekend Retreat at San Luis Rey scheduled for April. We counter with the threat of a lawsuit for breach of contract. Bishop backs off and allows retreat to happen as scheduled. Top

Due to the sale of the Cardijn Center, our chapter was forced to seek a new location. After a fruitless search for a meeting place in a dozen parishes, the chapter chose the Chile's Realty Building at 4569 30th St. And out of necessity the weekly Mass had to be changed to Sundays at 6:00pm. Our first Mass in the new location was held on Sunday, April 5.

In her farewell front page article, Judy takes a look back over the past two years and gazes forward with renewed hope. Judy calls upon all the members of the chapter to remain strong against oppression and to examine how each person can contribute to Dignity's future: