Church Leaders
We hope to provide resources, education, and support to church leaders so that they can effectively minister to LGBTQIA+ members of their wards and stakes while keeping in complete harmony with church authorities and guidelines. The willingness of church leaders to reach out to LGBTQIA+ members in their stewardship with love and understanding has helped many individuals stay close to the church and, subsequently, to the Lord.
If you are a bishop, stake president, or any leader in the church, you have a sacred role in ministering to LGBTQIA+ members which cannot be overemphasized. Often, you are the first person in whom they may confide. Your love and acceptance of them will lead them closer to the Savior and to His church. Most LGBTQIA+ members who remain active in their wards have had loving church leaders who have walked this journey with them and have sought the Lord’s will in helping individuals with their varying and diverse circumstances
In addition, bishops and stake presidents can create an atmosphere in their wards and stakes where LGBTQIA+ members can feel accepted and appreciated, regardless of what decisions they have made. Helping all ward members become more Christlike and accepting of others will provide opportunities for LBGTQIA+ members to feel the love of their fellow brothers and sisters, and know where to turn for love and support.
What to Expect from the Stories Shared
The stories and resources on this page are intended to help you, as a church leader, better understand the realities of being at the intersection of being LGBTQIA+ and being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Some of the stories are written by church leaders, some are written for church leaders, and some are written about church leaders.
Not all of these stories are going to depict the church and its leaders in a positive light. Many from this challenging intersection have experienced real trauma with lasting effects and their stories may be a reflection of that. Affirmation encourages the sharing of all stories as valuable contributions toward promoting understanding, acceptance, and self-determination of individuals of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.
It is our hope that, as a church leader, increasing your own understanding will help you to create an atmosphere of acceptance and appreciation for LGBTQIA+ members.