The father of a gay Mormon teen reflects on the doctrinal implications of requiring celibacy
I want every Mormon bishop to know what he is asking of the gay youth he counsels. I want him to lead with compassion and put his judgments aside. I want him to support these youth, whether they choose to stay in the Church or not. Don’t crush that youth’s hopes and dreams demanding a commitment to celibacy. Let them find themselves and work through complications that you haven’t even considered. Listen and allow the spirit to edify both you and the gay youth in front of you.
Read MoreA gay Mormon teen tells his story of finding hope
Once I had accepted myself, the self esteem issues melted away. I came to terms with my religion. I realized I could never leave the church. I am a Mormon; being gay will not change that. I am gay; being a Mormon will not change that. I am not some mistake that God made, he knows me and he wants me to be happy.
Read MoreYouth, Parents and Church Leaders Especially Invited to Conference
This year’s conference will provide activities for LGBT Youth and teenage children of LGBT parents. It will also include sessions specifically for Church leaders and parents. We will also hold two free screenings of the “Families Are Forever” documentary on Friday, September 12 at 3-4:30 and 4:30-6:00 p.m. including a discussion and opportunity for sharing.
Read MoreBearing Testimony as a Gay Mormon
Despite all my doubts, the biggest comfort I find is in God’s love. I know that God loves each and every single one of his children. My testimony is God’s love, and that it is available to each and every one of us, even when we don’t think possible.
Read MoreVideo: A Mormon Mom’s Story of Unconditional Love for Her Transgender Son
In this video produced by Equality Utah, Neca Allgood and her son Grayson share their experience having Grayson come to terms with his gender identity and his transition in an active Mormon family.
Read MoreShame and Affirmation
My son said, “If anyone knew who I really was, they would hate me.” These were the same thoughts he had regarding us before he had come out to us. So Wendy and I took on the task of liberating him of that shame.
Read MoreLGBTQ Teens and Youth
Welcome to the Affirmation Teens Page! We are so happy you are here. As an organization, we are dedicated to helping LGBTQ youth and their families navigate a sometimes difficult…
Read MoreI Have Loved My Son for 13 Years and I Didn’t Know How to Turn That Off
Wendy told the audience that growing up in a very traditional, conservative LDS home, she heard many things about the “‘evils of homosexuality’”. “So when I learned my son was gay, my mind went to all the negative things I had heard about the gay community,” Wendy said.
Read MoreAffirmation: Gay & Lesbian Mormons joins families, Scouts, and others in supporting LGBT youth by calling for an end to discrimination in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA)
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