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88: Cast Out of Christian Music for Being Gay & Reclaiming the Song That Started It All with Michael Passons, Ty Herndon & Melissa Greene
Description
Former Avalon members Michael Passons and Melissa Greene alongside country music artist Ty Herndon share the story behind their powerful re-recording of Testify to Love and the deeply personal journey that led them back to a song that now carries an entirely new meaning. Michael opens up about being removed from Avalon because he was gay, the years of silence and healing that followed, and what it meant to finally reclaim his voice nearly two decades later alongside longtime friends Melissa and Ty.
Together, they discuss the lasting impact rejection from faith communities can have on LGBTQ+ people, the trauma of feeling forced to hide who you are, and the complicated relationship many carry with faith after experiencing exclusion and shame. They also reflect on forgiveness, authenticity, personal growth, and why they believe love, faith, and belonging should never be reserved for only a select few. What began as a beloved Christian music classic has become a message of healing, inclusion, hope, and the freedom to finally live as your authentic self.
Listen to Testify To Love
https://c44.lnk.to/TestifyToLove
Testify To Love Music Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9l7IPvr6b8s
Michael’s Links:
https://www.instagram.com/michaelpassons
https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelpassonsmusic
https://www.youtube.com/@michaelpassonsmusic
Ty’s Links:
https://www.instagram.com/tyherndonofficial
https://www.youtube.com/@OfficialTyHerndon
Ty’s book: What Mattered Most
https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/tyherndon
Melissa’s Links:
https://www.instagram.com/melissagreene
https://linktr.ee/melissagreene
https://substack.com/@melissagreene
Resources:
The LGBT National Hotline
888-843-4564
The Trevor Project
https://www.thetrevorproject.org
Beyond the Monsters Socials:
https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters
https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters
Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal experiences and educational discussion. It is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own care.
Topics: Religious Trauma, LGBTQ, Faith Journey, Christian Music Industry, Self Acceptance
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