I can remember always being called to The Church, even when I was a small child. There was only one problem: I was also gay.

Throughout our society the cultural narrative is that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer and gender-expansive communities are inherently incompatible with religious life. There are even examples of actual faith traditions explicitly saying so. So what if you are LGBTQ+, but also feel called to be a Christian, or otherwise Spiritual?

A natural reaction that many LGBTQ+ folks have is to reject religious institutions, or religion and spirituality all together (Pew Research Center: Lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans are more critical of churches than straight adults are, 2019). One could hardly blame us, it’s only natural to avoid something or someone who clearly isn’t going to be kind to you, and according to a 2013 Pew Research Center study, the vast majority of us consider major religious groups to be unfriendly.

Does this mean that being queer is disqualification for being religious or spiritual? Not at all.

Many of us have found our own way through the noise of society that shouts that we are not welcome, and found people and communities that are open and affirming. Even more, we have challenged the societal narrative that God is somehow upset with who we are as people.

In fact, there is no real Scriptural teaching that considers LGBTQ+ folks to be unacceptable before God.

If you are like me, and have always felt called by God in some way, but also found out that you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community, or in the middle of that discernment, we would love to be there with you on your journey.

Consider a pastoral counselor to walk this path with you, and explore some of the fears, sorrows, joys and excitement that can be found along the way.