Episode Details

Jenn Curtis is the president of North Star, an organization dedicated to supporting LGBT Latter-day Saints. With a lifelong commitment to the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jenn has navigated her own journey of self-discovery and faith, advocating for understanding and compassion within the Church community. She has been actively involved in creating resources and spaces for dialogue around LGBT issues and faith, helping individuals reconcile their identities with their beliefs.



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Links

NorthStarSaints.org
Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community

Highlights

This podcast conversation centers on Jenn’s personal journey with same-sex attraction, her experiences within the church, and the importance of community and understanding in navigating these complex issues.

Key Insights

Personal Journey: Jenn shares her experience of coming to terms with her same-sex attraction while married, emphasizing the internal struggles and the process of self-discovery.

Community Support: The North Star community provides a safe space for LGBT individuals and their families, fostering open dialogue and understanding about faith and sexuality.

Curiosity Over Judgment: Jenn highlights the importance of curiosity in conversations about LGBT issues, suggesting that church leaders should ask questions and seek to understand rather than make assumptions.

Covenant Path: The discussion emphasizes that North Star promotes a gospel-centered approach, encouraging members to strive to keep their covenants while navigating their identities.

Tension in Faith: Jenn acknowledges the tension many LGBT individuals feel between their faith and their sexual orientation, advocating for a compassionate and understanding approach from church leaders.

Leadership Applications

Foster Open Dialogue: Leaders can create environments where members feel safe to discuss their struggles and questions about faith and sexuality without fear of judgment.

Encourage Curiosity: Leaders should practice curiosity by asking open-ended questions to better understand the experiences of LGBT members, which can help reduce fear and stigma.

Promote Inclusivity: By recognizing the diverse experiences within their congregations, leaders can work towards creating a more inclusive community that supports all members in their faith journeys.

00:04:48 – Jenn’s Personal Story and Journey
00:08:36 – Discovering Same-Sex Attraction
00:10:39 – Navigating Marriage and Self-Discovery
00:12:07 – Initial Reactions to Self-Discovery
00:14:18 – The Dual Existence of Living with Same-Sex Attraction
00:16:22 – Conversations with Her Husband
00:20:42 – Coming Out to Her Husband
00:22:27 – Finding Community in North Star
00:24:21 – Advice for Attending North Star Conference