Perspective: The Importance of Healthy Dialogue Around Religion and our LGBTQ Friends

Keywords

religious reconciliation, LGBTQ well-being, family support

Abstract

Many of us have friends and loved ones who identify as LGBTQ or as same-sex attracted. Maybe you have supported friends and loved ones as they’ve sought to reconcile their sexual/gender identities and religious faith. Some of you have likely also rejoiced with friends and loved ones who have shared the peace and joy they feel as they experience such reconciliation.

But all this becomes harder to navigate in an atmosphere of hostility and contention — since even in the best of circumstances, finding answers can be challenging. For instance, you may have seen studies suggesting religion is associated with LGBTQ well-being or that religion is associated with LGBTQ harm weaponized to pressure people. As a result, our sexual and gender minority friends and family can feel at the center of a never-ending conflict instead of finding greater peace.

Original Publication Citation

Perspective: The importance of healthy dialogue around religion and our LGBTQ friends - https://www.deseret.com/faith/2023/11/27/23973324/lgbtq-religion-research-mental-health

Document Type

Other

Publication Date

2023

Publisher

Deseret News

Language

English

College

Religious Education

Department

Church History and Doctrine

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

Link to Full Text

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