Speaking at an event recently, I opened as I often do. I share statistics and stories of LGBTQ+ growing up in church, pulling from research along with my own 3-year study of documenting 200+ stories.
I present the true and troubling narrative, with clear themes of fear, isolation, rejection, self-hatred, and despair. Then I invite listeners to examine the Christian response and responsibility to help make things right.
In my session, I was taken aback by the unresolved hurt in the room. Hurt from LGBTQ+ individuals who love Jesus, yet do not trust Christians. Grief from straight folks, with deep remorse for their part in the narrative.
I have the privilege of watching many LGBTQ+ people reclaim their faith in Jesus. Many come out of brutal experiences with family and the church, which speaks volumes to their resilience and commitment to faith.
LGBTQ+ experiences growing up in church generally remain unresolved and unaccounted for, taking a backseat to divisive rhetoric and debates.
Their stories deserve our attention.
To learn about LGBTQ+ growing up in church and how you can help change the narrative, visit: makingthingsright.org
