Need for LGBTQ-Affirming Faith Spaces
A childhood church that fails to provide a safe space for its members can have a lasting impact. The author recounts their experience of realizing their church was not a safe space due to homophobic sentiments.
Born into a Mormon family that later converted to Christianity, the author's upbringing was heavily influenced by religion. At the age of 10, their family began attending a small evangelical church where they would participate in community activities.
Hearing those same sentiments at a young age was what made me realize my childhood church was not a safe space and my so-called “siblings in Christ” were not safe people.
The author's initial positive experience with the church community was overshadowed by the homophobic messages shared by the pastors. This experience highlights the need for faith spaces that affirm and support the LGBTQ community.
Author's summary: Faith spaces should affirm LGBTQ communities.