There are many ways in which lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning individuals can experience conflict between their religious beliefs and their personal identity. Aspects such as coming out to family members, friends, colleagues, and clergy; dating and romantic interests; and navigating church policies can all present challenges for those seeking to reconcile their faith with their sexual orientation and gender expression. In this article, I will explore some of these conflicts and suggest strategies for negotiating them.
Coming Out
Coming out is often one of the first major struggles LGBT believers face. While many religions teach that homosexuality is immoral or sinful, some also preach acceptance and tolerance.
Catholicism considers homosexuality "objectively disordered," but Pope Francis has stated that there is no place for discrimination against LGBT people within the Church. This contradiction can lead to confusion and frustration among LGBT Catholics who wish to be open about their identities while remaining faithful to their religion. One strategy for resolving this tension may be to seek counsel from a trusted religious leader who understands both the tenets of your faith and the realities of being LGBTQ+. You might also join an affirming congregation where you feel safe and supported in expressing yourself authentically.
Dating and Romance
Another common area of tension involves relationships and intimacy. Many denominations frown upon same-sex relationships, viewing them as contrary to Biblical teaching.
Modern science suggests that sexual orientation is innate and unchangeable, leading to conflict between personal autonomy and religious beliefs. Some LGBT individuals resolve this by staying single or avoiding romantic partners altogether. Others choose to date exclusively within their own religious community, where they are less likely to experience judgment or stigma. Still, others pursue nonmonogamy or polyamory, which allows them greater freedom to explore their sexual desires without compromising their values.
Navigating Church Policies
Navigating church policies can be challenging for LGBT believers. Many churches have policies prohibiting same-sex marriage or ordaining queer clergy members. This can create a sense of isolation and exclusion, making it difficult to find supportive communities within one's own denomination. In some cases, LGBT individuals leave their religious affiliations altogether to find more accepting spaces. Alternatively, they may advocate for policy changes within their faith tradition to make it more inclusive and welcoming.
How do LGBT believers negotiate the tension between faith-based moral obligations and personal autonomy?
According to research, LGBT individuals who adhere to traditional religious belief systems face challenges when reconciling their sexual orientation with their faith. They may feel conflicted about their identities because of the potential discrimination they might encounter from religious communities or families of origin (Lorenz & Sells, 2015).