Ben Derk: Learning to Breathe Again

Ben Derk: Learning to Breathe Again

Coming out as gay threatened all that Ben (pronouns: they/them/theirs) knew and valued.  In fact, the stress and emotional turmoil of trying to keep a secret and live a lie was causing Ben to physically and mentally fall apart. Something had to give. So Ben faced their fears and came out as queer.  Despite facing pain, rejection, and exclusion, one thing that Ben never lost was their trust in God, and eventually learned how to breathe again. (Recorded Spring of '19)

Amy Harlacher: “How I Found My Holy Discontent”

Raised in a typical conservative Christian home, Amy believed what she was taught about LGTBQ people. They were choosing sin. But when she began to get to know more and more people who were gay and hear their stories, her black and white worldview began to shift. And over time, she began to realize that the crumbs the church was offering to LGBTQ people wasn’t okay. She couldn’t ignore how the Spirit was convicting her heart. (Recorded Spring of '19)

Wendy Cheesman - “God Loves Me Too”

In her 50’s, Wendy was a respected leader in her job and church. But she never could be fully herself, never be fully known. The risks of doing so were too high. Plus, deep inside she had harbored a belief that God didn’t love the real her. But little by little things started to change. It was scary. It was painful. But as she came out into the light it was undeniably life-giving. And God has been with her the whole time. (Recorded Spring of '19)

Fred Miller: “The Bible and Where Love is Calling ”

A former BIC Pastor of CVC BIC of 17 years shares his journey with his growing understanding of the Bible in light of questions regarding sexuality and what love looks like. (Recorded Spring of '19)

Nick Hill: “Can I Be Trans and Christian?”

For many people in the faith communities, the words trans and Christian are not ones they naturally combine.  But if you want to get an idea of what the journey looks like for someone discovering their sexuality and gender while trying to hold onto their faith then listen to Nick’s story. It’s honest.  It’s down to earth.  It’s challenging.  And it’s beautiful. (Recorded Spring of '19)