A gay Latter-day Saint’s reason for staying in the Church

Ben Schilaty, an incredible author and therapist, joins us to share profound insights surrounding his journey as a gay member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He talks about his experience coming out, his initial thoughts and decisions, his determination to stay active in the Church, and why he chooses to stay active today. Ben is one of the most mature, thoughtful, and witty people we have had on the channel -- this episode is a must-watch! Thanks for joining us, Ben! 0:00 - Introduction 1:07 - Praying, fasting, hoping to be straight 1:30 - Coming out at age 30, educational background, purpose 4:10 - Diverse experiences and stages in the LGBTQ community 8:20 - When people leave the Church 9:15 - Is the only path celibacy? 11:44 - Experience realizing the unfairness 15:30 - Live NOW 16:55 - Honoring people in their faith 18:23 - The most unkind comments 19:05 - Fear and negative comments from others 20:20 - When people know better, they do better 21:10 - Sit with people where they are 23:00 - Feeling heard and seen 24:30 - Why Ben chooses to stay active; feeling called to stay 29:00 - Sabrina's experience 30:35 - What do LGBTQ Latter-day Saints need? 32:30 - Gather conference: https://www.liftandlove.org/gather-2024 JOIN THE GATHER CONFERENCE! https://www.liftandlove.org/gather-2024 FOLLOW BEN!! https://www.instagram.com/benschilaty... https://www.amazon.com/Walk-My-Shoes-... SUBSCRIBE: http://saintsunscripted/subscribe Follow Us: Facebook:   / saintsunscripted   Instagram:   / saintsunscripted   Website: https://saintsunscripted.com/ Follow the Hosts: David:   / davidesnell   Allex:   / allex_lennon   Kaitlyn:   / kait_fotheringham   Sabrina:   / srhymasfuller   Cam:   / camcondie   Lauren:   / ladylaurencassidy   Wilson:   / wilsongustaveson   Brett:   / brett.fotheringham