What happens when the faith that gives you belonging also teaches you that a part of who you are needs to change in order to be fully accepted?

In this episode of Holy Uncertain, hosts Lauren Ranzino and Chris McLeod are joined by writer, advocate, and Conversion Therapy Dropout author Timothy Schraeder Rodriguez to explore the impact of growing up gay in a Christian tradition that taught him his sexuality needed to change.

Tim shares his story of spending nearly a decade trying to change his sexuality through conversion therapy while working behind the scenes at some of the most influential megachurches in the country – all while believing that being fully known could cost him his faith, community, and career. This episode explores shame, belonging, and Tim’s journey toward reconciling his sexuality and faith.

Rather than asking listeners to arrive at a particular theological conclusion, this conversation invites us to listen to the story of someone directly impacted by these beliefs – and to consider the human consequences our theology can have.

If you’ve ever questioned the church’s teachings around sexuality or wondered how your deeply held beliefs impact others, this conversation offers a thoughtful place to listen, wrestle, and reflect.

Learn More from Tim:
www.timothysrodriguez.com
www.conversiontherapydropoutbook.com
Instagram: @timothy.s.rodriguez

Read Tim’s book:
Conversion Therapy Dropout: A Queer Story of Faith and Belonging

Resources Shared in the Episode: Church Clarity / Q Christian Fellowship

Books: God and The Gay Christian by Matthew Vines / Torn by Justin Lee / Queer and Christian by Brandon Robertson

Documentaries: Pray Away / 1946

Holy Uncertain is a Blue Elevator production.