Summary: Few topics are as emotionally charged or require more sensitivity than same-sex attraction. This complex matter touches on the things we care about most: our basic humanity, our relationship to family, our identity and potential as children of God, how we treat each other, and what it means to be disciples of Christ. - <a href="http://mormonsandgays.org/" target="_blank">mormonsandgays.org</a><br> In this podcast, we have an enlightening conversation with Ty Mansfield, President of North Star International, and former bishops Dale, Joseph, and Monte. All of these faithful priesthood leaders experience same-sex attraction (or SSA), and their candid insight is certain to help other leaders gain a better understanding of this challenge.<br> We explore:<br> <br> * what resources are available to church leaders and members alike through the Church, North Star International, and the Voices of Hope Project.<br> * how to help someone reconcile same-sex feelings with the doctrines of a family-centric church<br> * what to say (and what not to say) to someone who experiences SSA, or to a family member of someone who does<br> * how to create a loving, safe, and compassionate environment in your congregation for those who experience SSA<br> <br> Whether you're a bishop, serving in a stake presidency, or an auxiliary or youth leader, you will come away from this podcast with a deeper appreciation for the gospel plan and how there is a place for all of God's children in it.<br> <br> At the North Star Conference, there will be a special leadership track for church leaders to ask questions and learn more about how they can effectively support SSA members in their ward. Register below.<br> Helpful Resouces & Links:<br> <a href="http://mormonsandgays.org/" target="_blank">mormonsandgays.org </a><br> <br> <a href="http://www.northstarlds.org" target="_blank">North Star International's</a><br> <br> <a href="www.conference.northstarlds.org" target="_blank">North Star Conference</a>, (April 23-25, Provo, UT)<br> <br> <a href="ldsvoicesofhope.org" target="_blank">Voices of Hope Project</a><br> <br> <a href="http://ldsliving.com/story/75806-what-and-what-not-to-say-to-someone-who-experiences-same-sex-attraction" target="_blank">"What (and What Not) to Say to Someone Who Experiences Same-sex Attraction"</a><br> <br> <a href="http://www.theculturalhallpodcast.com/2015/04/sara-jade-woodhouse-ep-168-the-cultural-hall/" target="_blank">Transgender Mormon - The Cultural Hall Podcast</a><br> <br> Books:<br> <br> <a href="http://amzn.to/1TLCT8X" target="_blank">Voices of Hope Book</a><br> <br> <a href="http://amzn.to/1K5V3jM" target="_blank">In Quiet Desperation</a><br> <br> <a href="http://amzn.to/1XbelWH" target="_blank">A Bigger World Yet</a>
