LGBTQ+ and the LDS Church
Official Statements and Resources by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics/same-sex-attraction
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/topics/gay
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Christ transformed Julio's heart as he struggled with same gender attraction in the LDS church (60 min)
Jesus' first miracle was to transform water into wine. It was almost a foreshadowing of what He can do. He can transform things, He can transform people. I feel like that's what He's done with my life. Not about being gay -- it's never been just about that. But going from pride and not knowing, to knowing good from evil and becoming perhaps a little bit more humble than I was back then. I just love the teachings of the church around family, without that, I would not have even tried to have a family.
I Loved My Gay Lifestyle, But God Had Different Plans (36 min)
Tember Harward was raised predominantly in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but eventually stepped away from the faith to openly live a gay lifestyle. Years later, a series of experiences, and the truth found within the Book of Mormon, led him to question what lasting peace and identity truly meant. His journey took unexpected turns as he eventually returned to the LDS Church, served a mission, and was sealed in the Temple. In this episode, he shares his story.
A gay Latter-day Saint’s reason for staying in the Church (36 min)
Ben Schilaty, an incredible author and therapist, joins us to share profound insights surrounding his journey as a gay member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He talks about his experience coming out, his initial thoughts and decisions, his determination to stay active in the Church, and why he chooses to stay active today
What it's like to be Gay and Mormon (20 min)
Peter sits down to talk about the LGBT community in Salt Lake City, Utah. He talks about his experience being a gay Mormon and some of the challenges he faced growing up. In response to building a greater support system for LGBTQ Mormons, Peter also ran a successful initiative in Salt Lake City called, "Hug a Gay Mormon." It was very successful in bringing more awareness to LGBTQ within the LDS community. We absolutely loved having Peter on show and hope you all enjoy!
Inconvenient Truths and Statistics on LGBT Success in the LDS Church (feat. Jeff Bennion) (1 hr)
This group of commentators does their best to stick to solid facts and actual scientifically based studies. The numbers indicate that the best location for anyone who identifies as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Discussed are the higher satisfaction rates, lower depression and suicide rates etc found by active members of the LDS faith who identify as LGBTQ+.
Debunking the Top 3 Anti-Mormon Lies told to Gay Members of the Church (feat. Tember Harward) (55 min)
A very open discussion guided by a gay member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints regarding the lies and deceit that so many people are taught when they try to conduct remain a strong member of the LDS church while identifying as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. It is absolutely possible to be both gay and a fulfilled member of the LDS church. Please listen to this heart felt message by Tember Harward.
Allowing Gay Marriage IS NOT like previous changes to Polygamy and the Priesthood Ban (in the LDS Church) (26 min)
If the church changed on polygamy and the priesthood for blacks and the gospel going to gentiles, why can’t it change on gay marriage? This frank discussion dives deep into the fundamental differences between different examples of doctrinal changes in the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Why LGBT Members Are So Much Better Off Mentally, IN the Mormon Church! (34 min)
This video takes a deep dive into the relationship between religious affiliation and the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals, with a particular focus on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It presents compelling evidence from various studies that indicate a positive correlation between religious involvement and mental health among LGBTQ+ people. The discussion highlights the importance of creating supportive environments within religious communities to enhance the experiences of LGBTQ+ members. Personal stories and expert analyses shed light on the challenges and triumphs faced by gay Mormons, offering a nuanced perspective that goes beyond simplistic narratives. The video advocates for a balanced approach that respects theological beliefs while fostering acceptance and compassion. It invites viewers to reconsider preconceived notions about religion and sexuality, emphasizing the potential for faith to be a source of strength and resilience for LGBTQ+ individuals.
A Shadow Faith Has Risen Within The LDS Church (1 hr 12 min)
Associate Professor Brent Yergensen has just written the most comprehensive and clarifying work on the Pride movement within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His conclusion? A Shadow Faith has risen in the church and the dangers it poses.
Transgender Policies in the Church of Jesus Christ | Handbook Update for LGBTQ Members (8 min)
The church has just updated their policy on individuals who identify as transgender in the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (sometimes incorrectly known as the Mormon Church or the LDS Church) and here's what you need to know about it.
Gay Temple Sealings vs. the Priesthood Ban – Why the Comparison Falls Apart (1 hr 10 min)
This LDS discussion takes on one of the most common comparisons in today’s Church debates: Gay temple sealings and the former priesthood ban. We explore why the two issues are fundamentally different — historically, doctrinally, and theologically — and why the analogy doesn’t hold up.
Can Eternal Truth Be Altered? Dealing With Change In The “Mormon” Church (1 hr)
Can Doctrine Change? Has doctrine ever changed? If a doctrine is true… why would it change? If we say a doctrine can change, does that mean we don’t think that doctrine is true? What do we mean when say something is doctrine? A very good presentation on ongoing revelation from God to his fallible prophets who have been asked to lead God’s through the lens of their understanding as mortal men. God will protect the concept of free will at all costs, even at the top of this church leadership.
“Several studies have shown that Latter-day Saint LGBQ teens have significantly lower levels of suicidality and depression than LGBQ teens of other religions or no religion (Catholic LGBQ individuals also did particularly well). Both studies find the likely explanation to be unsurprising. The apparent reason for the lower levels of suicidality and depression is that Latter-day Saints are, on average, less likely to have poor family connections and are less likely to drink alcohol or use drugs, both of which are substantial risk factors for suicide.”
