Tender Leaves of Hope: Finding Belonging as LGBTQ Latter-day Saint Women

Author: Meghan Decker

Premise: "I find myself turning again and again to hope. Hope in Christ sustains me every day, and when I nourish it, I have shelter and beauty. Hope gives life."

Meghan Decker is a woman who is attracted to women. She is also married to an amazing man, and together they are each committed to their faith, their covenants, and their testimony of Jesus Christ and His Church.

Growing up, Meghan could not see how her deep spiritual faith and her attraction to women could coexist. But after decades of shame, denial, and hiding, Meghan came to accept this part of herself. She realized that while she can't decide to change her sexual orientation, she can decide how to respond to the circumstances of her life. As she felt the tender love of the Lord, her faith deepened. Her experience will help Church leaders, friends, and family understand how to support their LGBTQ loved ones.

Now Meghan is sharing her story, along with insights from dozens of other LGBTQ Latter-day Saint women. Through her open experience, you will come to understand that

• You are not broken, and you are not alone.
• Shame is the real enemy.
• Your path forward begins with reaching out to God.

As you follow these women's stories, you will feel the Spirit testify of God's love for His LGBTQ children and for you.