6. Don't go it alone!
Many Christian parents report feeling utterly alone in their journey of parenting an LGBTQ child.
It’s not unusual for parents to feel like they’re the only ones in their church or social group with an LGBTQ child. Futhermore, most churches don’t offer any support, and many parents don’t feel comfortable talking to their pastor about it.
These forces conspire to make parents feel like they have to withdraw. And many quietly decide to keep their child’s sexuality as a family secret.
Agghh!
This is a terribly unhealthy way to respond to this situation. The healthiest parents I know are the ones who have reached out for connection, resources, and support. For all the Internet’s attending evils, its ability to connect small tribes of people with common life-circumstances is absolutely stunning.
There are millions—literally, millions—of parents out there on a similar journey as you. They also are learning how to love and support their lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer child. Many of them have transitioned from the early days of fear to a new place of peace.
I really can’t encourage you enough to join a loving, listening community of Christian parents of LGBTQ children. Q Christian Fellowship offers incredible support and resources. Harbor, the support program I lead is another great option as well. And there are others! Just find one where you feel like you belong, and get involved. Share your story, be vulnerable, and pray for each other.
Being the parent of an LGBTQ child isn’t a curse. As time goes on, you’ll discover that it is one of life’s greatest blessings. And, if you let it, the journey can be one that God uses to transform you in unimaginably beautiful ways.
