Thank you for this series and this video especially. I was an "investigator" for a while, but I never joined. I'm gay and when I told the missionaries that, they looked like deer in the headlights. They wouldn't even use the word gay, but said I had "personal issues" to work through. In addition to all of the problems with the truth claims of the church, I realized everything they were teaching me just made me feel worse about myself. I feel really lucky to have found information about the church before joining.
@seeker for gods heart I understand your comment is a few years old, but if you genuinely still think in the 21st century that homosexuality is a curse or something you can simply just change, I STRAIGHT UP PITY YOUR EXISTENCE.
What a touching story! You are an inspiration to gay people and straight people alike. Thank you for having the courage to be true to who you are and standing up for truth.
This video made me cry:') ! I hope your dreams come true. Im bisexual and what ive realized is that the world is cruel;( its okay to be who you are but some people just dont respect this statement:(
Malachi 2:16 God says, "I hate divorce ". That's what the bible says. But what excuses does your church give that allows divorces to happen and for divorced people to participate fully in your church denomination?
I'm so happy your mom was supportive of your leaving the church. I wish my parents were that supportive. I wish that they could see that I'm happy now.
Your story is beautiful and inspiring. All of us grow up in a belief a system imposed by society and many times that belief system is wrong for us and does more harm than good. I think that our main goal in life is to find a way to rethink everything everyone ever told us and build our own belief system. This is the most difficult and important thing we will ever do.
@FlyLikeRyno I can honestly say I understand your feelings. I was there myself not too long ago. It can always be difficult to leave everything you believed and make a major life change. Those who leave Mormonism are often faced with the kind of sentiment that your comment reflects- rather than kindness from our loved ones, we all too often receive judgement. The feelings expressed in your comment is the very reason this series exists- to give support to those who are in need.
Thank you for this testimony; I went through a similar ordeal within Christianity, of hating myself and just trying to will a change that eventually I realized was not going to happen, and ultimately, didn't need to happen. My mom doesn't support my acceptance of this, and so it is still an ongoing ordeal, but watching this video was very inspiring, if for no other reason than to reinforce the things I still struggle with.
Sexual identity doesn't just vanish because one wants to seek faith. It is a basic need, and we shouldn't feel shameful to seek it. Besides, people will be happier if they can just be themselves.
Grace, you could tell your mother, but also know that you don't have to tell people who don't get it and will only judge you for it. It's none of their business.
I understand. There's honestly nothing wrong with being gay, people just dislike what they: 1. Don't understand 2. Different things or people As they view them as threats to something. Being gay isn't a threat, people can just be very narrow-minded. Love who you love and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
My opinion on this topic began to change as I began to doubt LDS authority. Some religions believe magical toys are evil, but the argument of divine law no longer persuades me. Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. The terms "same sex marriage support" in Google images show that opinion has already shifted in the same way my own views have changed. I am looking forward to a time when your comments will be given as examples in history classes of the future.
Brilliantly said. I relate on every level. my parents joined the LDS church when I was 8 years old and at 10, I realized I was gay. From that point on I lived a lie and hated myself, until I realized it was how I was born and not a bad choice that I was making. Thanks for your story
Although I am not gay, I can relate to this so much. The problems with my faith are always blamed on me and that I have issues that I need to deal with (and the only way to do that is through the church) before I can feel the spirit correctly. Go you, Braden!
I can't help but think of an Elder in my MTC district. He would break down every day in class and have to leave. Finally, his companion had enough, and told him to spill the beans. He told him that he was gay. His dad came to give him a blessing, and that didn't work, and the next day he went home. After he left and we all heard about it, there were horrible, hateful remarks made about him, and this by the guys that organized "Naked Olympics 2001" and wet dream contests... I hope he's okay.
The more you do something, the more you want to do it. If you act on thoughts, and follow through with action, you can actually train your brain to respond as such. Changing your thinking, changes your ways.
Or just prove it, and you know, "switch for a day." If you are straight, be gay for a day, and prove to the rest of us that it's a conscious decision. btw, I'm very hetero, I did not chose to be this way, and I'm for the rights of human beings to live their lives, no matter what has been dealt to them.
@AnkokuEvangeline I'm Mormon and I've felt exactly how he felt. I do have to say in the defense of the LDS church that in no way have they made me feel unaccepted in the church. Actually, with everything that I've been through they've had open arms and open minds and have been understanding and loving. This is something I don't understand but know is apart of me. The church doesn't fully understand why either, but I can't deny the blessings that have been awarded me by them.
I think any type of religion not suppose ban sexuality of any type. Being Gay does not mean you do not believe in God, there is no conflict between God and Gays. The conflict comes in our mind, its not out there. We invent the Conflicts between religion and homosexuality. Loving each other and loving God has nothing to do with Gays and Lesbians. We can have both. If we break that barriers, I think God will love you more and so do you get closer to Holy Ghost. If God did not like homosexuality, He would not make a garden of different type of flowers and colors.you are flower of God. we love you
Never convincing yourself of unverified claims = you are sane. Extracting yourself from a religious group = you are incredibly strong willed. Good job at both. You win at life.
I'm Catholic and Homosexual. I told a Priest who I am, and he hugged me and told me that I can't receive the body of christ because it's a sin according to the Bible, but "Just know that god gave you freedom of choice and you are welcome into his church." That was one of the happiest moments of my life. God loves all equally, and man has no right to judge. Mormonism judges all, and that's against god's rules. It's a giant Cult.
Your priest needs to get his shit together; you've not been excommunicated, nor are you, I presume, divorced; you're more than entitled to receive the Eucharist, gay or not.
Josh Lister I appreciate you saying that, but it's just the way it is! I know god loves me no matter what. I pray and believe, but I don't go to church cause I just don't like going. As long as I believe, that's all that matters!! :D
Is there one person on this whole ex-mormon website that wasn't offended by someone or something and chose to be an ex-mormon? A person chooses to enter the church through baptism and they choose to leave the church. If you want to criticize the church, then that is your right to do so. Be happy in knowing that you don't need to get up early and worship God. Be happy in knowing that all you have to do is believe and you can be saved. Be happy in knowing that you just gave yourself a 10% raise.
I was sent to Sunday school when I was a little kid to learn about being a good little Catholic. When I was 9 I had this sudden epiphany that religion was all fables, anecdotes and made up nonsense that didn't help us create a better world, but gave people an excuse to be nasty and horrible to other people whilst pretending that it was all in everyone's best interest. There is no god, no satan only personal responsibility for our actions and reluctance to accept and embrace reality.
I have family who's gay. and I still love them. they are my beliefs, they don't have to be yours. Maybe they will be happy now, but I believe they will be happy for a long time. Yes. Someone told me that. And I personally believe it. Strongly. I don't support them, because it it was I was taught. I'd I'm truly happy in the church.
No one "is" or "isn't" gay. People tend to think in terms of what you do is who you are. Not true. They also tend to think that because I want to do it, it must be "good." Sorry, sometimes the best things are the hardest ones. Like continuing to follow God even when you have an extreme struggle with something. You become better, stronger, and happier as you try your hardest and keep moving forward. Giving in only gives temporary satisfaction, not happiness.
The church doesn't hate Gay people. They just don't support your beliefs. I'm a mormon, and I'm proud to say I am. I think this is interesting to watch these, people think they're happy. But they won't be forever. I'm a mormon
@11emma2002 Good opinion, the church also offers addiction rehabilitation programs that are based off of the AA's 12 step program. It is a great program and I would urge this man to try it. Again, we all have our own weaknesses. No one is perfect. But it is the ability to come back and learn and repeal temptation.
always glad to hear someone to realize that to love yourself is better than to be controlled to be accepted! but i hope you didn't substitute LDS for another religion!
For the purpose of perspective, I am heterosexual AND atheist. From my discussions with many believers, I've come to understand that believers are under the impression that homosexuality is a choice. I've tried to explain that my own sexuality is completely beyond my control. I desire women, and take no credit or blame for it. I think more gays should explain this detail. Homosexuals come into being from heterosexual unions. WE pass on the genetic trait responsible for such brain chemistry.
@darkones12345 no one ever chooses addiction. Many don't start smoking and say ok im gonna choose to be addicted. They become curious, tempted and before you know it, hooked. It is still very much a choice what you decide to do.
@ShinyAndTouchable Part of life is knowing that sometimes you just have to let people screw their own lives up and hope they come around some day. My name is Janus Christ and I am an ex-Catholic.
Congrats on your courage! Bravo! As for the folks who call homosexuality an abomination, if you can identify an abomination, please tell me what you call a 37 year old "prophet" marrying a14 year old girl as a plural wife?
It acts like an addiction, but you are right, it isn't technically, it's psychological. People can re-train their brains as with other certain disorders.
@jahwah19 Have you seen any of our other videos that deal with homosexuality? Here's one of my favorites to get you started if you are interested, and I will have many other videos released in the future that deal with this topic: watch?v=kFLGJyXG-UQ
wow, you really are turning peoples life's around by making these videos. I'm not gay but the churches stand point on homosexuality always didn't sit right with me. I tried really really hard when I was younger to feel disturbed or weirded out when I saw two guys together or two girls and I just couldn't. it never felt wrong to me. and I've finally realized that it isn't wrong to LOVE somebody. love is always good and I applaud you for being brave enough to be you.
@iamanexmormon Ciao Bello! "Amico Mio" that you were able to extricate yourself safely from that "Theologically" as well as "Eschatologically" errant environment or upbringing gives me great joy! You are a wonderfully committed, joyful and highly expressive young man, and I know in my heart that G-D would be well pleased with you gay or straight ! In fact Bobby Griffiths' (Prayers for Bobby) old lover/boyfriend "Blaine" here is enormously proud of you! Il Tuo Nuovo Amico Per Sempre! Blaine
"Therefore, you can't justify your views against homosexuality using the Bible. You just can't." I, as a heterosexual, white, middle aged, male, Christian, living in the US am JUST AS constrained as a homosexual in my ACTS.
I have never felt unnaccepted in the Church (to which I converted years ago.) However, to those who I know of personally that have been, it did not- and does not -sit right with me. Going into sociology helps me open my mind to other beliefs, ways of life and cultures that I, for awhile, simply scoffed at and made no attempt to understand. Now, I wonder if it is the Church that isn't fully understanding...
@MrPattypie69 I think he wasn't proud of being gay, and his family was a part of the church already. He said he hoped that the church would cure him of his homosexuality, and of course, it can't. So he left, and is now able to accept who he is because he left.
I thought there was a minor possibility that I would change since a young age, which didn't happen, but I never seriously expected it anyway. I saw gay men marrying women as an okay thing. I still do, and I expect to be resurrected with an opposite sex attraction. Any perception of church members and leaders expressing revulsion over the thought of homosexual acts should just be ignored. But homosexual acts are unchaste, so... have to be resisted anyway.
Good evening JuanCarlos. I hope you are well. For me to approve or disapprove of whatever you may, or may not, be struggling with makes no difference as to whether is meets acceptable parameters within society, the law, or your faith. "Then, assume this:" Your argument is simply spurious. Heterosexuality, and the ACTS therein have ALWAYS been considered moral, legal, acceptable by society, and not against our faith. IF, IF it is within the framework of marriage.
Not all Mormons hate homosexuality. I have heard of a few Mormon missionaries having gay sex on their missions (heard it from the guy they had sex with). An institution cannot hate anything, only people can do that.
When he describes the way he hated himself when he was still in the church, I imagine some Mormons nodding: Yes, that's the way you're supposed to be, pray every day, admit that you're a disgusting sinner, suffer, never listen to that temptation, live in celibacy, that is your only option. How is someone wishing this on gay people NOT evil? I'm sorry, but that's evil in my books.
@dorisfenella Your own LDS church has an "I am a Mormon" campaign... so I'm confused why you would want to distance yourself from that word. Go to mormon d ot org and you can sign yourself up for some online missionary work by making a profile- but you will have to call yourself a Mormon if you want to participate.
I am mormon but I will never agree with any church (cuz it's not only Mormons) about homosexuality. I don't know how it feels like, so how can I judge? I love the Gospel and it's been helping for years but I also have my own head with some piece of brain in it, so if my kid comes and says he/she is gay I'll just hug them and let them know I love them, and nothing has changed
I could never reject a child of mine because of sexual orientation. In fact, if one were sitting on death row, I'd be visiting as often as I could, offering unconditional love. The church is literally ripping families apart by taking such a hard stance on this. Parents engrained in the cult feel a need to follow the doctrine and ignore their child, and that is so not what God is about.
Good evening JuanCarlos. I hope you are well. For me to approve or disapprove of whatever you may, or may not, be struggling with makes no difference as to whether is meets acceptable parameters within societ, the law, or your faith. That is something that you must deal with in your own way. BEING a homosexual is not a sin, is not against the mores of society, is not against the law, is not violation a marriage, and is not met with the resistance of a partner. Choosing to ACT may be.
3)Had either of us been "lucky" enough to have seduced her, we would have had bragging rights. She would have been happy to have snagged a 15 year old. And no one would have condemned either of us. 150 years ago, women often died in childbirth, and children died of diseases. A man might have 3-4 wives in his lifetime. He got older. But he continued to marry 14, 15, 16 year old girls who could continue to have his children Today, both of these would be considered pedophelia, and illegal.
Yes, you're right, being gay is a choice or decision they make. And yes, they can choose what happens to them. It doesn't mean that it is natural, regardless of how they feel or choose. It seems to me that people forget about chromosomes. A male is XY and a female is XX regardless of how they choose to act with their significant other. You can act as masculine or as feminine as you want but it still doesn't change XX and XY. Now, show me one place where God says being homosexual is natural.
The Church accepts that people are born gay and can be a part of the church in every way but they must stay celibate. We accept everyone as a child of god no matter sexuality,race or creed.
Dude, congrats on being you. Your sexuality is important - but you are 10x more important - all of you. God can handle your sexuality, you are handling it, if others can't, that is their problem. Jesus broke through the taboos of his time. He'd have broken through the homosexuality taboo had he walked the earth in 2013 too. You are loved, and God in Christ embraces you and loves you!
"Therefore, you can't justify your views against homosexuality using the Bible. You just can't." JuanCarlos. I could have the propensity to jump the bones of half the women who walk down the street. Mores of Society, Laws, my faith, love for my wife does not condemn me for having that propensity. It is when I ACT on that propensity that laws, mores of society, my faith, wife condemn me. One is not CONDEMNED for what he FEELS inside. He is condemned for what he DOES outside.
@bomac10000 I didn't claim that being gay was shameful, I was paraphrasing. I never said that sexual activity was a prerequisite for happiness. FREEDOM is. Please, stay in the context.
@Skittywolf I'm not asking gay people to accept me... Please don't ask me to accept the gay lifestyle. As a community we have the right to set a standard. Part of that standard is what constitutes a family.
@tattoodfreeek Gee, might that be because you told them to? For most LDS people, your beliefs aren't just what you do on Sunday. They're who you are. So when someone in the church says they don't want any more to do with it, an LDS person often feels that means you don't want them around either.
@IulovemeI And even if it were, why would that matter? Following a religion is a choice, yet religious people demand that their *choice* be legally protected, or even be given "special rights". Choice is a religious red herring when it comes to homosexuality.
@iamanexmormon I think there is some moderation between both your posts. I do think comparing the Church to something the equivalent of "disease", "alcohol", or "drugs" - aka, something you escape or quit from, is unnecessary and unfair. However, you are right in the fact that we need to be nonjudgmental and tolerant no matter what path one takes, even if he/she chooses to leave the church.
Thank you for this series and this video especially. I was an "investigator" for a while, but I never joined. I'm gay and when I told the missionaries that, they looked like deer in the headlights. They wouldn't even use the word gay, but said I had "personal issues" to work through. In addition to all of the problems with the truth claims of the church, I realized everything they were teaching me just made me feel worse about myself. I feel really lucky to have found information about the church before joining.
Then u must not like the Bible because it also teaches against homosexuality. Yes Mormonism is wrong... But destroying the family is better?
@seeker for gods heart
I understand your comment is a few years old, but if you genuinely still think in the 21st century that homosexuality is a curse or something you can simply just change, I STRAIGHT UP PITY YOUR EXISTENCE.
Why do churches spread so much hate? What about loving your neighbor? Treating others the way you want to be treated?
They're nothing but hypocrites.
I agree with u on how churches spread hate. But the Bible is against homosexuality is this also hate?
I'm not gay but I love this guy. how could I not.
I AM GAY AND I LOVE YOU :3
Truly an inspiration to those of us who r gay. Thanks for sharing your experiences : )
What a touching story! You are an inspiration to gay people and straight people alike. Thank you for having the courage to be true to who you are and standing up for truth.
This video made me cry:') ! I hope your dreams come true. Im bisexual and what ive realized is that the world is cruel;( its okay to be who you are but some people just dont respect this statement:(
Christ is against homosexuality so do u disagree with him? Or believe he is cruel?
Malachi 2:16 God says, "I hate divorce ". That's what the bible says. But what excuses does your church give that allows divorces to happen and for divorced people to participate fully in your church denomination?
I'm so happy your mom was supportive of your leaving the church. I wish my parents were that supportive. I wish that they could see that I'm happy now.
Your story is beautiful and inspiring. All of us grow up in a belief a system imposed by society and many times that belief system is wrong for us and does more harm than good. I think that our main goal in life is to find a way to rethink everything everyone ever told us and build our own belief system. This is the most difficult and important thing we will ever do.
Thank u Braden! Your story is very motivational and inspiring.
@FlyLikeRyno I can honestly say I understand your feelings. I was there myself not too long ago.
It can always be difficult to leave everything you believed and make a major life change. Those who leave Mormonism are often faced with the kind of sentiment that your comment reflects- rather than kindness from our loved ones, we all too often receive judgement. The feelings expressed in your comment is the very reason this series exists- to give support to those who are in need.
This gave me the chills.... Great video! Stay true to who you are, it's the best thing you can do :)
A very brave and honest young man. I have nothing but admiration and respect for you. Congratulations!
Thank you for this testimony; I went through a similar ordeal within Christianity, of hating myself and just trying to will a change that eventually I realized was not going to happen, and ultimately, didn't need to happen. My mom doesn't support my acceptance of this, and so it is still an ongoing ordeal, but watching this video was very inspiring, if for no other reason than to reinforce the things I still struggle with.
Great story, thanks for sharing. Sounds like you have an amazing mother too, good for her!
Sexual identity doesn't just vanish because one wants to seek faith. It is a basic need, and we shouldn't feel shameful to seek it. Besides, people will be happier if they can just be themselves.
Grace, you could tell your mother, but also know that you don't have to tell people who don't get it and will only judge you for it. It's none of their business.
I'm a lesbian ex-Mormon. I'm scared to tell my Mormon mother, but I will someday.
It may be best to never tell her. She may be very old-fashioned and simply unable to hear it.
Move out and have no contact!
shaylen sanders, that is an excellent point. Moving out becomes a must. If not, then one is tormented endlessly.
Grace H do u scissor?
Gay, ex-mormons unite! Great story, thanks for sharing your thoughts and feelings.
totally felt the "spirit chills" on this one =) nice story, way to stick up for yourself braden.
inspirational! i love people who are not afraid to be themselves. Congratulations to every gay person who came out.
I understand.
There's honestly nothing wrong with being gay, people just dislike what they:
1. Don't understand
2. Different things or people
As they view them as threats to something. Being gay isn't a threat, people can just be very narrow-minded.
Love who you love and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
My opinion on this topic began to change as I began to doubt LDS authority. Some religions believe magical toys are evil, but the argument of divine law no longer persuades me. Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. The terms "same sex marriage support" in Google images show that opinion has already shifted in the same way my own views have changed. I am looking forward to a time when your comments will be given as examples in history classes of the future.
Brilliantly said. I relate on every level. my parents joined the LDS church when I was 8 years old and at 10, I realized I was gay. From that point on I lived a lie and hated myself, until I realized it was how I was born and not a bad choice that I was making. Thanks for your story
Although I am not gay, I can relate to this so much. The problems with my faith are always blamed on me and that I have issues that I need to deal with (and the only way to do that is through the church) before I can feel the spirit correctly. Go you, Braden!
I can't help but think of an Elder in my MTC district. He would break down every day in class and have to leave. Finally, his companion had enough, and told him to spill the beans. He told him that he was gay. His dad came to give him a blessing, and that didn't work, and the next day he went home. After he left and we all heard about it, there were horrible, hateful remarks made about him, and this by the guys that organized "Naked Olympics 2001" and wet dream contests... I hope he's okay.
Brilliant testimony - well done.
It's paranoid to question someone else's happiness out from under them. You're Mormon, you're proud, and you're ill.
Thank you so much for posting this testimony.
The more you do something, the more you want to do it. If you act on thoughts, and follow through with action, you can actually train your brain to respond as such. Changing your thinking, changes your ways.
Great video. My experience was a lot like yours - very well articulated. Congrats!
Or just prove it, and you know, "switch for a day."
If you are straight, be gay for a day, and prove to the rest of us that it's a conscious decision.
btw, I'm very hetero, I did not chose to be this way, and I'm for the rights of human beings to live their lives, no matter what has been dealt to them.
Well said and Thank YOU! You are so very brave. May you continue to live the path you have been called to.
Right on man. Congratulations on getting out of the insanity.
@AnkokuEvangeline
I'm Mormon and I've felt exactly how he felt. I do have to say in the defense of the LDS church that in no way have they made me feel unaccepted in the church. Actually, with everything that I've been through they've had open arms and open minds and have been understanding and loving. This is something I don't understand but know is apart of me. The church doesn't fully understand why either, but I can't deny the blessings that have been awarded me by them.
Loving yourself as yourself is more important than the judgments of a thousand self-chosen "leaders."
I think any type of religion not suppose ban sexuality of any type. Being Gay does not mean you do not believe in God, there is no conflict between God and Gays. The conflict comes in our mind, its not out there. We invent the Conflicts between religion and homosexuality. Loving each other and loving God has nothing to do with Gays and Lesbians. We can have both. If we break that barriers, I think God will love you more and so do you get closer to Holy Ghost. If God did not like homosexuality, He would not make a garden of different type of flowers and colors.you are flower of God. we love you
farzad khazraee in my religion its not wrong being gay its wrong marrying to same sex ✌
You are a very sincere and authentic awakener.
Never convincing yourself of unverified claims = you are sane. Extracting yourself from a religious group = you are incredibly strong willed. Good job at both. You win at life.
I'm Catholic and Homosexual. I told a Priest who I am, and he hugged me and told me that I can't receive the body of christ because it's a sin according to the Bible, but "Just know that god gave you freedom of choice and you are welcome into his church." That was one of the happiest moments of my life. God loves all equally, and man has no right to judge. Mormonism judges all, and that's against god's rules. It's a giant Cult.
Your priest needs to get his shit together; you've not been excommunicated, nor are you, I presume, divorced; you're more than entitled to receive the Eucharist, gay or not.
Josh Lister I appreciate you saying that, but it's just the way it is! I know god loves me no matter what. I pray and believe, but I don't go to church cause I just don't like going. As long as I believe, that's all that matters!! :D
I am an exmormon, and my wife and I are happier than we ever were inside the church.
I'm proud of you and your choices. I wish I could be more like you.
Joseph Smith was not sexually repressed; why should any of us be?
Is there one person on this whole ex-mormon website that wasn't offended by someone or something and chose to be an ex-mormon? A person chooses to enter the church through baptism and they choose to leave the church. If you want to criticize the church, then that is your right to do so. Be happy in knowing that you don't need to get up early and worship God. Be happy in knowing that all you have to do is believe and you can be saved. Be happy in knowing that you just gave yourself a 10% raise.
@MormonGurl1208 I'm glad to hear you are taking the time to understand :)
I was sent to Sunday school when I was a little kid to learn about being a good little Catholic. When I was 9 I had this sudden epiphany that religion was all fables, anecdotes and made up nonsense that didn't help us create a better world, but gave people an excuse to be nasty and horrible to other people whilst pretending that it was all in everyone's best interest. There is no god, no satan only personal responsibility for our actions and reluctance to accept and embrace reality.
I have family who's gay.
and I still love them.
they are my beliefs, they don't have to be yours.
Maybe they will be happy now, but I believe they will be happy for a long time.
Yes. Someone told me that. And I personally believe it. Strongly.
I don't support them, because it it was I was taught.
I'd I'm truly happy in the church.
No one "is" or "isn't" gay. People tend to think in terms of what you do is who you are. Not true. They also tend to think that because I want to do it, it must be "good." Sorry, sometimes the best things are the hardest ones. Like continuing to follow God even when you have an extreme struggle with something. You become better, stronger, and happier as you try your hardest and keep moving forward. Giving in only gives temporary satisfaction, not happiness.
I feel great. I get to love who I want every day because I choose to. My life is not predefined by some genetic code. I am able to love who I want.
The church doesn't hate Gay people.
They just don't support your beliefs.
I'm a mormon, and I'm proud to say I am.
I think this is interesting to watch these, people think they're happy. But they won't be forever.
I'm a mormon
@11emma2002 Good opinion, the church also offers addiction rehabilitation programs that are based off of the AA's 12 step program. It is a great program and I would urge this man to try it. Again, we all have our own weaknesses. No one is perfect. But it is the ability to come back and learn and repeal temptation.
always glad to hear someone to realize that to love yourself is better than to be controlled to be accepted! but i hope you didn't substitute LDS for another religion!
For the purpose of perspective, I am heterosexual AND atheist. From my discussions with many believers, I've come to understand that believers are under the impression that homosexuality is a choice. I've tried to explain that my own sexuality is completely beyond my control. I desire women, and take no credit or blame for it. I think more gays should explain this detail. Homosexuals come into being from heterosexual unions. WE pass on the genetic trait responsible for such brain chemistry.
The Seer Stones said that man-on-man action is ok. I think Joseph Smith didn't want to include that in the fairy tale book.
@darkones12345 no one ever chooses addiction. Many don't start smoking and say ok im gonna choose to be addicted. They become curious, tempted and before you know it, hooked. It is still very much a choice what you decide to do.
Think the title says it all on this one . Moving on ....
@ShinyAndTouchable Part of life is knowing that sometimes you just have to let people screw their own lives up and hope they come around some day. My name is Janus Christ and I am an ex-Catholic.
Congrats on your courage! Bravo! As for the folks who call homosexuality an abomination, if you can identify an abomination, please tell me what you call a 37 year old "prophet" marrying a14 year old girl as a plural wife?
It acts like an addiction, but you are right, it isn't technically, it's psychological. People can re-train their brains as with other certain disorders.
They claim that they don't "hate" them, but they still think its wrong and try to "cure" it and tell the gay people that they can never act on it..
@jahwah19 Have you seen any of our other videos that deal with homosexuality? Here's one of my favorites to get you started if you are interested, and I will have many other videos released in the future that deal with this topic:
watch?v=kFLGJyXG-UQ
wow, you really are turning peoples life's around by making these videos. I'm not gay but the churches stand point on homosexuality always didn't sit right with me. I tried really really hard when I was younger to feel disturbed or weirded out when I saw two guys together or two girls and I just couldn't. it never felt wrong to me. and I've finally realized that it isn't wrong to LOVE somebody. love is always good and I applaud you for being brave enough to be you.
@iamanexmormon
Ciao Bello!
"Amico Mio" that you were able to extricate yourself safely from that "Theologically" as well as "Eschatologically" errant environment or upbringing gives me great joy! You are a wonderfully committed, joyful and highly expressive young man, and I know in my heart that G-D would be well pleased with you gay or straight ! In fact Bobby Griffiths' (Prayers for Bobby) old lover/boyfriend "Blaine" here is enormously proud of you!
Il Tuo Nuovo Amico Per Sempre!
Blaine
Thank you so much for this. You stated it so eloquently. You are my equal (no, greater than me because of your courage), and equal in the eyes of God.
We love you just the way you are. You are perfect. ☮ ♥ ♋ ツ ♫ ☯
"Therefore, you can't justify your views against homosexuality using the Bible. You just can't."
I, as a heterosexual, white, middle aged, male, Christian, living in the US am JUST AS constrained as a homosexual in my ACTS.
I have felt that way for a long time im still working on how to get where you are but this video helps
I have never felt unnaccepted in the Church (to which I converted years ago.) However, to those who I know of personally that have been, it did not- and does not -sit right with me.
Going into sociology helps me open my mind to other beliefs, ways of life and cultures that I, for awhile, simply scoffed at and made no attempt to understand.
Now, I wonder if it is the Church that isn't fully understanding...
@MrPattypie69 I think he wasn't proud of being gay, and his family was a part of the church already.
He said he hoped that the church would cure him of his homosexuality, and of course, it can't.
So he left, and is now able to accept who he is because he left.
I thought there was a minor possibility that I would change since a young age, which didn't happen, but I never seriously expected it anyway. I saw gay men marrying women as an okay thing. I still do, and I expect to be resurrected with an opposite sex attraction. Any perception of church members and leaders expressing revulsion over the thought of homosexual acts should just be ignored. But homosexual acts are unchaste, so... have to be resisted anyway.
Good evening JuanCarlos. I hope you are well.
For me to approve or disapprove of whatever you may, or may not, be struggling with makes no difference as to whether is meets acceptable parameters within society, the law, or your faith.
"Then, assume this:"
Your argument is simply spurious. Heterosexuality, and the ACTS therein have ALWAYS been considered moral, legal, acceptable by society, and not against our faith. IF, IF it is within the framework of marriage.
2:28-2:38 Does it seem to anyone else that they cut up what he was saying to make it fit what they wanted not actually what he said?
Not all Mormons hate homosexuality. I have heard of a few Mormon missionaries having gay sex on their missions (heard it from the guy they had sex with). An institution cannot hate anything, only people can do that.
When he describes the way he hated himself when he was still in the church, I imagine some Mormons nodding: Yes, that's the way you're supposed to be, pray every day, admit that you're a disgusting sinner, suffer, never listen to that temptation, live in celibacy, that is your only option. How is someone wishing this on gay people NOT evil? I'm sorry, but that's evil in my books.
@dorisfenella Your own LDS church has an "I am a Mormon" campaign... so I'm confused why you would want to distance yourself from that word. Go to mormon d ot org and you can sign yourself up for some online missionary work by making a profile- but you will have to call yourself a Mormon if you want to participate.
God doesn't take away our trials, but gives us the tools and strength to move through life with them.
I am mormon but I will never agree with any church (cuz it's not only Mormons) about homosexuality. I don't know how it feels like, so how can I judge? I love the Gospel and it's been helping for years but I also have my own head with some piece of brain in it, so if my kid comes and says he/she is gay I'll just hug them and let them know I love them, and nothing has changed
I could never reject a child of mine because of sexual orientation. In fact, if one were sitting on death row, I'd be visiting as often as I could, offering unconditional love. The church is literally ripping families apart by taking such a hard stance on this. Parents engrained in the cult feel a need to follow the doctrine and ignore their child, and that is so not what God is about.
Good evening JuanCarlos. I hope you are well.
For me to approve or disapprove of whatever you may, or may not, be struggling with makes no difference as to whether is meets acceptable parameters within societ, the law, or your faith.
That is something that you must deal with in your own way. BEING a homosexual is not a sin, is not against the mores of society, is not against the law, is not violation a marriage, and is not met with the resistance of a partner.
Choosing to ACT may be.
3)Had either of us been "lucky" enough to have seduced her, we would have had bragging rights. She would have been happy to have snagged a 15 year old. And no one would have condemned either of us.
150 years ago, women often died in childbirth, and children died of diseases. A man might have 3-4 wives in his lifetime. He got older. But he continued to marry 14, 15, 16 year old girls who could continue to have his children
Today, both of these would be considered pedophelia, and illegal.
Yes, you're right, being gay is a choice or decision they make. And yes, they can choose what happens to them. It doesn't mean that it is natural, regardless of how they feel or choose. It seems to me that people forget about chromosomes. A male is XY and a female is XX regardless of how they choose to act with their significant other. You can act as masculine or as feminine as you want but it still doesn't change XX and XY. Now, show me one place where God says being homosexual is natural.
The church doesn't hate homosexuals. We love them all as children of God. We do however hate temptation and we like to not embrace it.
Thank you for sharing. God bless you.
The Church accepts that people are born gay and can be a part of the church in every way but they must stay celibate. We accept everyone as a child of god no matter sexuality,race or creed.
Dont listen 2 any of the haters. Ur amazing ;)
Dude, congrats on being you. Your sexuality is important - but you are 10x more important - all of you. God can handle your sexuality, you are handling it, if others can't, that is their problem. Jesus broke through the taboos of his time. He'd have broken through the homosexuality taboo had he walked the earth in 2013 too. You are loved, and God in Christ embraces you and loves you!
this made me cry :(
"Therefore, you can't justify your views against homosexuality using the Bible. You just can't."
JuanCarlos. I could have the propensity to jump the bones of half the women who walk down the street.
Mores of Society, Laws, my faith, love for my wife does not condemn me for having that propensity. It is when I ACT on that propensity that laws, mores of society, my faith, wife condemn me.
One is not CONDEMNED for what he FEELS inside. He is condemned for what he DOES outside.
@bomac10000 I didn't claim that being gay was shameful, I was paraphrasing. I never said that sexual activity was a prerequisite for happiness. FREEDOM is.
Please, stay in the context.
It seems like the Mormon church must not like single people either, since it seems to be marriage focussed. Am I right?
@Skittywolf
I'm not asking gay people to accept me... Please don't ask me to accept the gay lifestyle. As a community we have the right to set a standard. Part of that standard is what constitutes a family.
that not ? the reason he is what he is my friend !!! everthing in life is diffrent !! for a perpose !! always a friend !!
always be you !!!
@KentonForshee Did I say it was? I would not characterize it as especially debilitating.
@tattoodfreeek Gee, might that be because you told them to? For most LDS people, your beliefs aren't just what you do on Sunday. They're who you are. So when someone in the church says they don't want any more to do with it, an LDS person often feels that means you don't want them around either.
@IulovemeI And even if it were, why would that matter? Following a religion is a choice, yet religious people demand that their *choice* be legally protected, or even be given "special rights". Choice is a religious red herring when it comes to homosexuality.
Who cares if people are gay? Seriously, how does it affect me? It doesn't.
Personal issue? I don't consider homosexuality to be anything negative if that is what you are insinuating.
watch?v=vDfYQbCro7M
Just choose to be straight. I do everyday.
@iamanexmormon I think there is some moderation between both your posts. I do think comparing the Church to something the equivalent of "disease", "alcohol", or "drugs" - aka, something you escape or quit from, is unnecessary and unfair. However, you are right in the fact that we need to be nonjudgmental and tolerant no matter what path one takes, even if he/she chooses to leave the church.
Best of everything to you.
I echo your mom's comment, and wish you every happiness always.