Today we're talking with my friend Heather, who is sharing her story of coming out as a queer Christian. That isn’t a statement you often hear, but her faith is vibrant and alive! What led her to come out? What led her to be a Christian? And why does she feel such a call on her life to build bridges between people with different theologies in this area?

I LOVED this interview and can't wait to share it with you. Welcome back to "Outgrowing the Good Christian Girl"!
XOXO, Tiffany

HERE ARE TODAY'S QUESTIONS:
Q1: What does deconstruction mean to you? (@3:50)

Q2: For me deconstruction has had a lot to do with how I understand Scripture and its intent. How do you understand biblical intent and how has that evolved on your journey? (@5:20)

Q3: Let’s dive into your story. Would you share with us what your life and faith were like growing up? (@8:06)

Q4: When did you start wondering when you might be gay? Did your faith affect the process, or your process affect your faith? And if so, how? (@11:05)

Q5: When you came out to your Christian community, how did people respond? Did this affect your faith? (@19:33)

Q6: What fruit are you seeing from your decision to come out? (@25:32)

Q7: What has been helpful in those conversations, specifically with people who think it’s a sin to be gay? From your perspective, is it more about showing your life, or is it certain conversations you have? Are there any resources that have helped you? (@28:09)

Q8: What are some things you’d recommend for people who’ve been really hurt by the church? What has helped you find healing and confidence? Are there times when you have to set boundaries to protect yourself? (@31:22)

Q9: Are there times where it’s helpful to talk more about the theology you’re coming from, and why biblically you’ve come to different conclusions? (@35:34)

Q10: You said the LGBTQ+ community had shown you a picture of what church could be. Could you talk about that? (@42:34)

Q11: Have you seen different understandings of what it means to love? A lot of times we think loving someone means pointing out their sin. What are your thoughts on that, or pointing out if someone’s hurting themselves? What’s that balance? (@44:27)

Q12: Something many of us have been taught is that a person can’t have a real faith and be openly in the queer community. Can you tell us what faith means to you now, and how it’s changed these last few years? (@48:52)

Q13: As we wrap up this interview, I have two final questions. First, let’s go to a bird’s eye view again. Part of deconstruction is asking: What parts of my faith do I bring forward with me, and what parts do I leave behind? So I’m asking all my guests: Do you have any examples of this in your own life that you’d feel comfortable sharing? (@50:12)

Q14: Do you have any resources or advice for people who are deconstructing their faith and/or questioning their sexuality? (@51:20)

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