How Should I Respond to Someone's Preferred Pronoun Request? (Morning Air)

Ever been asked to call someone by their preferred pronouns and didn’t know how to respond? Jack Rigert, co-founder of the John Paul II Renewal Center, shares a heartfelt and Spirit-led response on Morning Air with John Morales, and it could be helpful for you.  Jack was leading a high school retreat when a 16-year-old girl raised her hand and said: "Call me they." Imagine the pressure! All eyes were on him, waiting to see how he’d handle this situation. What did he do? He asked for some heavenly backup.  Jack looked at her kindly and said, “Can I call you a beloved child of God?” She nodded, and the entire room shifted. Suddenly, the conversation wasn’t about labels but about something far deeper: our shared identity in Christ. Why It Worked  Jack's approach was all about truth and love. He didn’t dismiss her feelings or get combative. Instead, he gently reminded her (and everyone else in the room) of their worth: “We’re all beloved children of God.” This truth opened the door to a deeper conversation, moving hearts to a place of peace and prayer.  Digging Deeper  Jack later learned that this young girl had a painful past, including abuse and cultural pressures that led her to this false identity. She found acceptance in these groups, but deep down, she was longing for authentic love and healing: a need Jack helped her see could only be filled by God.  The Big Takeaway  Jack pointed to the wisdom of Pope St. John Paul II, who taught that our true identity comes from being made in the image and likeness of God. By embracing this truth, Jack showed her and the group that the culture’s lies: like "you can invent your identity" or "love is just a feeling" – can’t hold a candle to the transformative power of the Gospel.  How to Handle the Pronoun Challenge): Start with prayer. The Holy Spirit is with you  Show love first. “You’re a beloved child of God” is always a winning opener.  Ask questions. What’s their story? Where’s their pain? Listen with compassion.  Proclaim truth gently. Identity isn’t something we create: it’s a gift we receive from God.  Jack’s story is a reminder that in today’s culture, we’re called to lead with both truth and love. Next time you’re faced with a similar moment, take a breath, pray, and remember: You, too, are a beloved child of God.  The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.