Acceptance Sydney, the world’s 2nd oldest gay Catholic group, is a welcoming ministry to gay Catholics, their families and friends. Founded in Sydney in 1972, the group first met in homes, halls and churches offered by other faiths, Acceptance was not able to have Mass in a Catholic Church in Sydney for nearly 20 years. In the late 1980s Acceptance spread nationwide, with chapters in Canberra and all mainland State capitals. In 2012, chapters remain in Sydney and Melbourne.

Surry Hills Library is proud to host a collection of photos, stories and other archival material curated by Acceptance Sydney on the occasion of their 40th anniversary. The exhibtion tells the story of this gay Catholic group’s struggle to find its place in Sydney, the gay community and in the Catholic Church. Acceptance is a fascinating part of the City of Sydney’s gay history and the exhibition is a highlight of Pride Week 2012.

Join us at the official opening by Kristina Keneally, former Premier and Catholic, and hear her perspective on the story of Acceptance and the need for change in today’s Church.