Impossible to love queer children in the church

The Challenge of Loving Queer Children in the LDS Church

For deeply faithful members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a foundational belief is living according to the teachings as set forth by church leaders. Yet, when it comes to the Church's stance on LGBTQ+ issues, many within its midst are finding themselves in conflict, particularly when it comes to loving their queer children. For some members, reconciling the love they feel for their LGBTQ+ children with church teachings can feel like an insurmountable challenge. This not only affects the dynamics within families but also raises larger questions about the Church’s stance and how it aligns with its commitment to family unity and kindness.

The Historical Context of LDS Teachings on LGBTQ+ Issues

To understand this tension, we need to look at the history of the LDS Church's teachings on LGBTQ+ issues. The "Proclamation on the Family" released in 1995 stands as a seminal document outlining the LDS Church's official perspective. It emphasizes the belief that marriage should be between a man and a woman and asserts that gender is an inherent and eternal characteristic. For members of the Church, this document often functions as a doctrinal map guiding attitudes and behaviors concerning gender and sexuality.

The release of this proclamation occurred during a time when society was beginning to have more open conversations about LGBTQ+ issues. However, for many Latter-day Saints, the deeply ingrained belief that family structures and gender roles are divinely assigned makes any deviation feel daunting and wrong. As some members openly admit, even when personal experiences or family realities begin to diverge from these teachings, reshaping one's beliefs can be a painstaking process.

Conflicting Claims and Evidence