Where to start? Ready-to-use “intro to LGBQ topics” for fireside, lesson, FHE conversation, or yourself

Need a discussion guide for a fireside, lesson, family home evening conversation, or just a quick overview for yourself? Here’s a 10-page excerpt from Evan Smith’s Gay LDS Crossroads: My Journey, Your Journey, and a Scripture-based Path Forward, edited by Marci McPhee. The 10-page discussion guide covers the following points, backed up by quotes from scriptures and LDS leaders as well as Evan’s observations and Marci’s 2-page thoughts. Which of these topics most interest your group?

1) The church now teaches that people do not choose to be attracted to someone of their same sex.

2) Sexual orientation cannot be changed.

3) The church’s teachings, policies and doctrines are fluid and often do change.

4) Straight singles feel like they just have to wait for a spouse. But gay singles in the church are often made to feel that a core part of them was created as a mistake that will need to be fixed after this life.

5) Is mixed-orientation marriage encouraged by the church?

6) Is the church’s current position on gay sexual behavior more reflective of human prejudice than it is divine truth?

7) Is it bad to recognize there is human error in the church?

8) I presume God wants change now because I don’t believe He views protecting the comfort of one group of His children (cisgender, straight church members) as being more important than relieving the suffering of another group (LGBTQ church members).

9) Am I trying to attack the church or “steady the ark”?

10) Why can’t I just put my concerns on a shelf and go on with my life?

11) Acknowledge that someone’s choice to leave the church could be one that God actually wants for them.

12) Is it fair for us to expect LGBTQ church members to just trust in the Lord to work things out?

13) Does the Proclamation on the Family prohibit marriage equality?

14) What about children born to same-gender parents?

15) How can embracing the diversity of LGBTQ people help us become better disciples?

16) How should we behave towards our LGBTQ siblings?

We hope this short guide will be useful to you as you pursue your life journey. Download the 10-page excerpt here.