An openly gay missionary. Most people have yet to meet one. Some may wonder if it’s even possible. But Elder Shane Carpenter’s smile shines brightly above his missionary tag and the rainbow heart pin he wears while serving full-time within the circumference of “the happiest place on earth,” in Anaheim, CA…
Read MoreTHE BENCH FAMILY
After 14 years of marriage, Lindsey and Keegan Bench of Spokane, WA have defined their role in their church and community as strong allies willing to speak up in love for the marginalized. Because this was a found path for them, rather than an inherent one, they bring the added asset of understanding where others are coming from who might still struggle to be stone catchers in a world filled with stone throwers. But Lindsey and Keegan are the first to admit, it took time to get here. In fact, when Lindsey’s brother first came out as gay over a decade ago, they weren’t even on the same page with each other when it came to understanding LGBTQ issues. Now, united in their quest to break down the fortresses that prevent us from fully embracing God’s love for all, Lindsey and Keegan Bench are grateful to have glimpsed what it means to expand the tent of Zion…
Read MoreJERRY CHONG - ADVOCATE WITHIN THE CHURCH
Jerry Chong from Calgary, Alberta has been an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for 17 years. He is the first to admit that living as a single, celibate, gay man in the Church has not been easy, but that it is worth it…“What are the chances that two missionaries would find someone at home midday on a Tuesday willing to let you in and teach a full first lesson?”
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