Ask a Faith Leader

Honesty is the first step to spiritual growth. Even so this is tough work. I have seen families accept someone after coming out of the closet. I've seen others reject and ostracize someone for the same. Safety is an important consideration. I think the most important thing to do is move in the direction of honesty (while honoring your own safety needs). Developing a chosen family of friends outside the nuclear family can be a good way to build safety that will in the fullness of time lead to the best and most honest life. Spiritual growth isn't imposed from the outside. It unfolds from within and has its own timetable.

With love. They will be scared and confused, but love is the best medicine. Answer questions and give space. And get help if you need it. Many pastors, myself included, are happy to help you educate your family on what the Bible does and does not actually say about being LGBTQIA+.

Coming out is a personal journey. Find a supporting group of people who can surround and love you. You are not obligated to come out to your family if you don't feel safe. The world does not owe their affirmation or acceptance of you. Your affirmation, acceptance and respect come from yourself first and then be an expectation of your support group.

As someone who has experienced this, I would suggest make sure you are ready. If not, you don't have to come out. But if this is something you want to do, make sure that you are in a safe position and that you are prepared to proceed with love, grace, and understanding. There will be many emotions and questions that will follow, but surround yourself with a support network and access as many resources and education you can muster before this undertaking. It will help. Remember, sometimes families will come around. Others won't. But God accepts you and loves you just as you are and you are not alone.