You guys are seriously the best!!!!! I love all your videos and am so happy to hear your views on religion! I am catholic and totally accepting of all people, and it's so awful to see how judgmental and ignorant so many people can be. One of my best friends is gay, and this has defiantly been very hard for him. Whenever someone tries to tell him these hateful things I try to remind him that Jesus literally said "whoever hasn't sinned can throw the first stone", and making people feel like their not worthy of God is exactly the opposite of Jesus's message. You guys are so right, so many people see God and Christianity as something that is inherently "judgmental", when in reality the whole basis of it is in love and not judging others. I love how you also talked about judgment you have received from the gay community too! I completely agree in that judgment can come from any side of an issue. When we demonize a group of people we are inevitably becoming just as ignorant as what we are fighting against! It's awesome how you guys are so cool and great dads! Much love -Megan
I often show this particular episode in the Comparative Religion classes that I teach at a Bay Area community college when we get to the week on Christianity. I want students to see the breadth of paths within Christianity, and that no one person or group gets to define the religion for everyone else. I also enjoy and appreciate your thoughtfulness, honesty, and openness. Thank you!!! I wish you and your family all the best, and many blessings!
***** You're welcome! Having just read this quarter's student responses to the week, and the video, I'm happy to be able to tell you that the majority of students (probably around 85-90%) responded positively, and said things like, "it was refreshing". Even some of those who have a strong belief that homosexuality is "wrong" reacted positively to you as people and as a family. Thank you again for your contribution to a better world. _/\_
Being gay does not affect one's salvation as scripture says our salvation is based on whether we believe Jesus is God or not. Once one enters that relationship, thru faith, we can not sin away that relationship nor do we want to any more than we would want to hurt someone you love. So glad you found a church family that loves and reflects God's care for you.
I've been watching several of your videos and am so proud of the both of you! This is an EXCELLENT way to educate those people who have no idea about gay relationships or who have predispositions about what being gay is! Keep up the great work guys! ;-)
Thanks guys for making this video! I'm a gay Christian, and I believe in the same things you guys do. It's great to see that there are others like me out there. I hope all people can see that we are all equal, and stop spreading hate. We all need to learn how to respect eachother, and not stereotyping people. Thanks again, you guys are the best!
I'm Catholic and still follow the beliefs but I often feel that God is your perception of who He is. Follow the Bible and teachings but overall it is like you said, "it is your choice how you connect with God."
Thank you for sharing this often difficult topic within our community. As a gay Christian myself, I often struggle with my faith and sexuality, hearing radical chistians pitting against gays and visa versa. This tug of war has made some (not all) gays to become non-believers. But as time progressed, I realized that God loves me for who I am and I can still believe in Him and still be a happy gay man. Thank God that you've became stronger in faith while still being yourselves.
The fact that I, a single, heterosexual, mother, can relate to these issues that you bring up, shows the success of your videos and your general message. Gay parents are like straight parents. The difference is the kind of parent you are. (which, from what I have observed, you are wonderful parents)
Hey guys.... Vince from Ireland here. Was a christian, many years ago...not now, but love what you do. I am also a gay parent. You have set yourselves up, and that is very brave, you are both quite amazing. Crap you get from our own community shows how narrow minded we are. Love and respect...xx
Speaking as a Mormon woman, I completely agree with your friend. I very heavily support gay rights and do believe my church isn't treating gay people as they should. I love your family so much. I can tell that your children are happier and much more well-adjusted than a lot of the heterosexual-family-raised children I know. I commend you both and hope you keep your positive messages out there.
I'm glad you address this as I am catholic (14) and so is my dad but his partner is Methodist and my mum is Anglican. I have also felt, not with my current priest but with a previous one, that some Catholics aren't OK with our sexuality. it is hard as a catholic to find a church were I feel comfortable, and that the church has a way to go. thanks for posting as it helps me to see that my family with my dad and his partner is more common than i used to think. love you guys xx
Bryan expressed my feelings perfectly. I was raised in a conservative church, but now am attending a more liberal church. When I came out to my mom she said, "If you can't help being gay then I don't think there is anything wrong with it. God wouldn't create something bad." I was not forced to go to church when I was a teen and as an adult chose my spirituality. My feeling is the Bible says, "Judge not lest ye be judged." Christians should be careful to follow the Bible here too! Ronnie
Well articulated argument! I agree with your viewpoints on compatibility of christianity and homosexuality. It takes an incredible leap of faith (at least to me, an agnostic), and I think some fundamentalist / literalist christians simply arent cognizant enough to realize that. Its great how open you are to the idea of your children adopting & incorporating other beliefs into their lives, and doing it yourselves. You guys truly exemplify the foundations of christianity: compassion and love.
One thing I always was taught as a child is 'Walk by faith, not by sight' We live our lives the way he proceeds it, how he gives us the glow/ or is a beacon to gain knowledge of faith, no matter what kind of faith.. Spirituality, or other religions.
It is about time America woke up to the blight of bigotry from those who do a lot of "Hating". Your family is wonderful and I really hope you never meet the bigotry that is producted in the southern states. Religion helps keeps the bigotry alive. I hope you teach your children that these people who preach hate are the narrow minded part of the christian faith ! Lovely video and wish you well in the future !
06:51 - 08:38 ...thanks a lot bryan!!...i am a christian and a gay "trans guy" and I've been having lots of troubles with hanging on to my faith (christianity) and these words have really touched my heart...I really wish my family could see that God made us all different and that he loves us no matter who we are, what we are, or who we love....May God bless your family and i pray that someday people would understand...because in front of God we are all equal...and thanks again...
I'm so happy to see that you're raising your kids openly. I am often upset by parents who shove kids into beliefs or faiths instead of teaching them to be open and accepting. I think a person's faith is their own choice. Religion, unfortuately, seems to only get attention because of extreme groups, which casts it in a negative light. And I think that you have done a good job portraying a more 'average' view of religion. (P.S: My baby sister has that exact same stuffed cat as your daughter!)
Religion, of any kind, is a set of guidelines. So what do we derive from it? LOVE As long as we keep love foremost in our hearts & go forward with that, we will teach by example. Hopefully not only children, but other adults as well. Bryan & Jay are an excellent example of that. They are truly blessed as a family, not just by having children, but by them all loving each other. That is the strength in family. Stay strong Lafew family!
You guys are my heros! Thanks for being such an inspiration for so many of us, you are the living proof that being gay and having your own family is possible! God bless Mani
"They say we'll rot in hell, well I don't think we will, they've branded us enough Outlaws Of Love." -Adam Lambert Love your videos guys, thanks for posting! Great to hear that your church is so liberal and accepting!
You're very welcome. & thank you for your comments as well. I'm reading and trying to learn from them all. I have good confidence that Jay & Bryan realize that I care about them & their family. It's hard to hear criticism on videos you put your heart & soul into. Once they catch on to my points, I have confidence they might one day thank me too.
First and foremost, I would like to thank God for sending four of you to create the right awareness of being gay family. I came from a Buddhist family and my dad was a medium. I am in the other hand was a converted Christian since age 12. Among my sibling in the grace of God 3 out of 4 of us are Christian now.
I Love this Video! As a Gay man and a Buddhist, I too find a lot of conflict with the Gay community and religious faith. It's good to see a rational response to this conflict. Thanks
I respect you guys for standing for what you believe. What baffles me about this country is that the one thing that was meant to unite the people of the earth (Christianity, or religion in general) is the main thing that's tearing us apart. It's a dark irony. I personally do not practice religion anymore. I consider myself to be agnostic. That's not solely because I'm gay. It includes many other things as well. I just try to keep my spiritual life to myself to prevent hate as much a I can.
I had originally posted a comment about religion and God in a wrong spot. I remember that I said that I hated when people use God for their prejudice and hatred towards gays. I always ask these people if God is defective or makes mistakes. Usually their response is that God is perfect. My response is then that God intentionally created straight and gay people and he loves us all. I agree with Jay that the Bible was written by man who was influenced by God. The Catholic church was created 270 years after Jesus Christ's death during Emperor Constantine's time to unify the roman empire. Who knows what happened to Jesus's original teachings after all this time. I believe that Jesus wanted us to have a personal relationship with God. We don't need an organized religion for that.
Wow. You guys are awesome! I didn't know that you guys were Christians! I am too and I am gay. I am encouraged to hear a gay couple talk about this and raise children in the Church!
Thanks for a very thoughtful video! I don't see it as some kind of evangelization tool. Instead I see the story of a family describing your own faith in your own terms. Just as with any growing friendship, it takes time to learn the others' story, background and vision. Thanks for sharing your lives with us. It reminds me of this old quote: "He drew a circle that shut me out: Heretic, rebel, a thing to flout. But love and I had the wit to win: We drew a circle that took him in." Love wins!
YAY! This is a very good message! I truly believe your family is putting some cracks into the thoughts of homophobic people, and causing them to think about how they percieve gay people; how they treat gay people! Continue the great work! Erik =)
Please don't think badly of me. Here I am highlighting my situation and I'm concerned it will cause me to lose respect, not that I can blame anyone for doing so. I'm a gay guy who puts his family first. Some will say I have to live my life for me, and I agree, but I love my family too much to cause them any hurt and if me going out to find a man would do just that, then I'd rather live a life of loneliness no matter how much I hate it. Thanks again for the kind feedback, much appreciated.
Great job guys on this video. I really appreciate the fact that you are standing up for what you believe in and call on everyone both within and outside of the LGBT community to treat all religions with dignity and respect. I also really admire with what you have to say with what you believe. You're wonderful role models to gay families and gay people. :).
Hey, great video. Another "grew up conservative but not so much anymore" type guy here. I think it's examples like yours that will continue that march toward change. Good on you.
I love that you made this vid. I think many people are confused by how a gay person can consider themselves a Christian. However I would like to address how several of your points resonated with me. I was raised in a strict Catholic household. I do not consider myself Catholic anymore, but I do consider myself a Christian. I have family members who do not think I am one simply because I have a different faith. I, too, am raising my child to know and love God, and to keep an open mind.
the way you pour your love adn care to your kids makes you great Christian, love is what matters to God, and i think you guys have a place in heaven for just being awsome parents and standing for human rights in general. my sincere admiration all the way from Colombia. (sorry for my spelling)
I love you guys. I am an Atheist and I can clearly see that your kids are in very good hands. It seems to me that you are teaching them good principals and leading by example. I'm gay and I think you guys are really setting a great example for all families, gay or straight.
This is awesome. Simply awesome. Your life, your testimony is a direct reflection of God's love and Christ's teachings. I have no doubts in my mind that your videos will radically transform people's lives and bring an enormous amount of joy and peace. God bless you all :D
I live in the Bible Belt and was raised in a conservative church. My parents were not radical and let me choose my own belief system. I feel much like you. There is a radical element in all religions and they are what causes dissention. The book, Battle for God, is an excellent discussion of this fact. It's a great book. I commend you guys for holding to your faith and believing in a Heavenly father who loves us unconditionally. Ronnie
You guys r awsome, just hope that someday, not only U.S.A. will understand that value comes from the heart, but the whole world too. I just luv your videos keep them comming!!! From Brazil!!
You guys are truly awesome. I look forward to every one of your vlogs. To me you epitomize good Christian parents. Thanks so much for opening this needed discussion.
First of all, I would like to commend you on your video series. I bumped into them by accident while researching on a topic for my blog and I'm very glad I did. I have linked them to my blog, because if they have the profound effect they had on me, that is always a good start. As a Christian religions scholar and a scientist, I take a different approach on my blog as an activist for equal rights. I try to enlighten on the reality of the Scriptures based on my studies following in the research of others, as well as my own and demystify the credibility of those who use the Scriptures to attack the GLBT lifestyle. This video in particular has me sitting here thinking on my approach, which is somehow confrontational. As you, I no critic of religion, however I do have a hard punchline when it comes to its institutionalization. Thank you for letting me see the softer, but not less efficient approach to a most difficult subject. God Bless you!
Oh I'm all for open discussion and education. For me, agreeing to disagree is what I believe in when both sides have stated their case and neither is willing to change their beliefs. And it is in beliefs only that this applies. If others are harming or oppressing others, then actions are definitely called for. Agreeing to disagree is for someone's beliefs, not actions.
I totally love your guys wardrobe(s), you should do a closet clothing edition episode, since the Fall Season is right around the corner! I have absolutley been dying to know where to by vintage starwars T's every time you were them. ttyl
It can be easy for gay people to generalize Christians as hateful. It's how I felt for most of my life, long before I recognized my sexuality. One of my earliest memories was getting kicked out of my best friend's house by his parents for being Hindu. If hate is all you see, assuming all Christians are like that is an easy trap to fall into. Seeing some Christians fighting against prop8 last year started to change my mind. Thanks for making this video. It's given me something to think about.
Just starting to come out to family and friends and you two are so inspiring! You gave me the courage to tell my dad, who is totally supportive, and I thank you for that!! L.G.B.T. LOVE FOREVER!!!!
Well done guys...from Vince in Ireland, another gay parent. I don't believe but love it that you do and say so in such an open, honest positive manner....x
I admire the fact that you can admit that you believe based on faith. I used to be a fundamentalist christian, but I cannot believe anything on faith anymore. I do concede though, that as sentient beings relying on our five senses, we take a lot of what we call "reality" based on faith. I think the difference between religious faith and faith in reality, is that with faith in reality, we continually try to verify what we know or believe through science and investigating our world.
Good job laying out what the basics of your belief system are. Also a strong reminder that religiosity or lack thereof is a very personal thing, and that all beliefs are based on FAITH, because none of us is sure what the absolute truth. As for me, I worship at my local reform Jewish congregation, a mainstream group of people who a few years ago hired an openly gay Rabbi to go along with the Gay Cantor, which means that our entire religious staff is gay.
Hi Guys, I really liked this video a lot ....as much as I was feeling down, watching this video really soothed my heart. To see and hear what you've just said, I pray to the divine to bless you, your children and all the loving people who have and open loving hearts as you do. Peace and love.
I am so very glad that you guys did not abandon you faith just because you are gay.I know so many gay people turn their backs on religion because of things that are written in the Bible.I guess they don't stop to think that the Bible was not written by God.No where in the Bible does it mention anything about loving relationships between to men.In fact the word homosexual doesn't appear at all in the Bible.All of the sexual acts between men in the Bible are actually committed by heterosexual
Depfox, great video. Thanks very much to you and your family for sharing your story and for not backing down. You send a great message, and I look forward to more videos. All the best from TigerLily
I have so many questions about the bible and homosexuals. Being gay and Christian myself I was taught it was wrong. Recently I joined GSA. (Gay straight alliance) and joined a retreat they are going on that goes over it. Thank you for sharing these gay family values videos and others. They made me go beyond my comfort level and come out to others too. Peace!
Hi Guys, great stuff as always. I agree 100% with your approach to dealing with this issue with the kids. I think the duty of a parent is to put as many things on your kids plates as is possible & then encourage them to taste as much as they care to. You can't force them to taste anything because undoubtedly they will resist. And you can't force them to avoid tasting anything because they undoubtedly will. Just give them as many choices as you can. Goes for religion & more. BTW- My cat is JoJo.
Great Video I'm glad you guys are able make peace with your religious background. I struggled for many years because I allowed others to place a stumbling block between God and I. It is still difficult to deal with people who are so caught up in the "letter of the law" they forget the love God put in their heart. Live the Law of Love and the rest will fall into place. Those who judge and hate will have to explain themselves to the Creator one day.
its funny, for the longest i've been avoiding this video because i'm not all that religious and i didn' really know what to expect out of it. last night i had a heated argument with my friend that went from gay to religion and after watching this, it really said a lot. great video guys, and i noticed for once bryan wasn't wearing those black jeans of his :-P
We have all chosen to believe that we don't know whether there is a God or not, and even if there is an afterlife. We choose to not let that ignorance bother us, and to just wait until we die and then find out the truth. We also try our best to be respectful of other people's religions, and if one of our friends asked us to go to church with them, we would do it and try to have a good time. This is what my mother truly wanted was for us to not be close-minded.
Omg!!! Guys if I thought in some point that you were awesome... now its even more!!! I really think you said everything I was thinking a few weeks ago (I dont remember what video I was having this conversation on) but I am now more fan of you than before. I know that you guys are making a difference!!
Thank you for sending this video to me hon. I really thank you for the wise message. you sound like my father when you talk about people being the same especially when you said that gays love the same way that straight loves. You are so right with what you said and I really thank you for the reminder of diversity. Thank you hon :)
If I had someone like Jay and Bryan here, my self-esteem would probably be a lot better. Thank God for the internet where I have gay friends who will listen and talk to me when I need to. But even then, because past friends cut ties with me because of my gay baggage, I do be hesitant to talk about my issues. The result, my gay side is pressed 24/7 and it causes me bad stress.
Hi guys when people raise the deuteronomy question I tell them to read everything written there as it also is sending people who eat prawns and pork to hell. Paul the apostle said If you keep one of the laws then you must live by the whole law and salvation in Christ is made null and void. Salvation is a work of God, not ours. As the scriptures says "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not as a result of works, so that no one may boast."
What a great family you have. God has given you both the gift of faith - faith is how we live - the righteous live by faith. And whoever abides in love Abides in god and god in he for god is love. Stay strong and I praise you for caring so wonderfully for your children. God bless
She did want us to find our own happiness, but to also be a good person to anyone we met in our lives and never hate them for whatever belief they have. Homosexuality was actually a word I did not learn of till high school. My school area never really had that much trouble with homophobic behavior, so none of my classmates made fun of gays around elementary through middle school. And I never saw the word that much. Not even for racism. I didn't learn about racist acts till middle school.
Wow. That really was a deep. I will admit at first I didn't want to watch this one because religion is such a heated thing to talk about but now I'm glad I did. I too was raised Christian, that gays would burn & blah blah blah but I don't see it that way. I believe it just like what you said Jay. That a loving god doesn't hate his creations. Also when the time come I hope I'll see you and Bryan and your adorable kids up there too! :)
I thank Gimmeabreakman for showing me your channel. You guys are really smart and act like all religious people should. Not shove your religion down others throats. This video made me subscribe to you.
Christianity appeals to children for one main reason: the Nativity. A baby in a manger surrounded by friendly animals and receiving gifts is a wonderful marketing tool. Not to mention all those carols written about Christmas that are simple enough for any child to learn and fall in love with. To a lesser extent, the chocolate Easter bunny does the same thing. PS - among the many things I am in life, one of them is a United Church of Canada organist and music leader...
To finish i'd like to say: I don't argue with a person for he/she belief, but when this is something over exaggerated i feel very uncomfortable. There are persons around the world who likes to discriminate your life for doing this (or not ), or that, and this is something i will never gonna let happen in my life. I do what i want, when i want, and nobody (except for my mom, sister and cat - Mel xD) has nothing with that! Loved the video, thanks again depfox! the best for your family! :)
Good video! I know what you mean about being harassed and getting dumped on by both the "religious right" and the gay community for being and seeing ones self as a gay christian. I truly appreciate the videos, please keep up the good work! Peace
I know we think it is difficult being gay in the present but things are getting better. I have often thought how horrible it would to have been gay in our society..let's say in the 1930's!! The sharing of ideas and knowledge like on youtube is priceless. Thanks for making us think... Thank you Emeralds222 too! ;-)
Yes Jay..I know. I was really lucky with my family. When my older sister found out she called me and started crying. She said."I am not crying because you are gay..I am crying because I wish you had told me when you were in HS. I feel sad that you had to deal with this alone. I could have helped you." I felt like a fool for hiding it from them. But, we are all so scared..society makes us. Gay a choice?..I think not! BUT! Your choices have illuminated your souls! (and all of us youtubers)
I have personally had problems with my own with religious views or beliefs but I believe as well no matter what sexuality , race gender, etc. religion as in the Bill of Rights is just as it says a right , o choose whether or not to be religious and what religion you choose is your own choice and to force religion or views thereof is wrong no matter what and to let your children choose their own happiness no matter what the issue is so astounding. Thank you guys for your videos!
you are very smart people and a really lovely family and an inspiration for young gay men as me. im in my coming out phase and videos like this make it soooooooo much easier. so much respect for you.
I grew up in a family where my mother is a christian and my father is an atheist. And they let me choose what I belive or not believe. I Grew up to understand why there is the idea of god, and why sometimes i really understand christian people ( well, well adjusted christian people like you) I respect every type of believe, because in everyone´s heart we need to get the courage to face life, sometimes we believe in something bigger, sometimes we just believe in ourself. Out of space...crap...
Thank you so much for the video. I guess I'm fortunate to be living in Toronto, being a really big city there are many gay-positive churches and wonderful clergymen/clergywomen who dedicate their lives to GLBTQ Christians that face suffering for who they are. Just to tell everyone, no matter what people say, you can follow Jesus and be gay at the same time! God bless you all :D
I has been curious as what your faith is. I am quite pleased to see you guys share a faith with me. Personally, I find it difficult to talk my own faith with Christians or Gays because I look at Christianity vastly different than my conservative family. Your views on free spirituality is quite beautiful and the fact that you aren't Spiritual-hater is also beautiful. Keep up the good work you two, or was it four?..... maybe six with those cats involved...
...dude, I bet...jusxt form reading the ammount of feedback comments you've gotten... I had to think about this a LOT recently as flew over to DC for my godson (who I love! ;D) 's Communion and Birthday. I was and still am so grateful (and quite attentive to) the fact that my aunt and uncle chose me for this relationship/responsibility, and I reaaaly wanna do best by them all - esp. Konrad so was a bit anxious about this visit but also the future as I knew that coming out to the family
Must say, I'm gay and christian and I fully believe in God and evolution because God wanted us to move on and grow in mind, body and spirit! I think God wants us to have religion evolve with us too, to not necessarily look at a book written 2,000+ yrs ago and still live by that exactly! Everything must evolve in order for there to be happiness and progress,religion being the biggest one and that it shouldn't be a scary or impossible thing either! I love you guys, you give hope to me, thanks!
My mother and her brother were raised in an extremely religious household. She considers herself a Roman Catholic, however, she does not believe in organized religion. She doesn't go to church, and she doesn't acknowledge religious events and groups. She feels that she has her belief, and that she should not be told by other people what to believe. She considers the church manipulative, and she would rather follow God and not man. Which is why my siblings and I were never introduced to religion.
Hi Paul-a big hug here from Jim in Ohio! I know-it is so wrong to be made to feel guilty about who you are. None of us chose to be gay. I can tell you are a sweet person and you deserve to have someone in your life to share it with. Late bloomer here.30..but some guys take it to the grave. So unfair. Please.please don't be one of them because of your family. I know you love your family but our life here is short. You are a beautiful person-.any Irish gay lad would be lucky to be yr mate
Thank you for referencing the video & the internet. This is a good discussion. I take the stand that homophobia does not equal "hate". Homophobia certainly leads to hate, however, by itself, it is simply means fear through non-understanding. My main point is that the word "hate" is tossed around incorrectly & too freely. It is an awful word and used without concern on the effects it has on the reader & listener. I still haven't found any non-believer that "hates" gay persons.
I had originally posted a comment about religion and God in a wrong spot. I remember that I said that I hated when people use God for their prejudice and hatred towards gays. I always ask these people if God is defective or makes mistakes. Usually their response is that God is perfect. My response is then that God intentionally created straight and gay people and he loves us all. I agree with Jay that the Bible was written by man who was influenced by God. The Catholic church was created 270 years after Jesus Christ's death during Emperor Constantine's time to unify the roman empire. Who knows what happened to Jesus's original teachings after all this time. I believe that Jesus wanted us to have a personal relationship with God. We don't need an organized religion for that.
Final other gay Christian many of my gay friends ask the same thing. Also my husband says that he doesn't believe in organized religion. But he has watch some of the show I have watched started to understand but he never once open the bible. I want are daughter to grow into Christian home but have free will as she gets older. Thanks your awesome and would be awesome to meet some time.
Hey Paul-you do not sound like a "fool"..actually you sound like a very nice guy...someone that would sacrifice your own needs to keep your family together. I am not in your shoes but I can tell you that I did the "alone" thing till I was 30. It is way too lonely. Having someone in your life is complicated but well worth it. My partner changed my life for the better. We have had a blast! AND!! Listen Mr.!! You are CUTE! Lotsa guys in Ireland are missing out on a hottie! Cheers! Jim
whichever path you choose, i wish you the best of luck and hope you find hapiness in your life you deserve. im straight and i cant imagine how hard it must be to have to deal with the issues you have to deal with, especially being from such a christian background, which is not very accepting. personally i beleive that if god is real, then you were born like that for a reason and should embrace it. be yourself, love yourself and be a role model! life is 2short to spend it hating yourself
When I write, you can bet it also comes from my heart. I have a passion to help persons and when I am not spending time on the internet (which I am spending a lot of time lately) I am spending the rest of my day helping people. It is truly my wish for world peace & I although you may not "get it" yet because you find it difficult to hear what I have to say, rest assured I that I do have great respect for you and your efforts and find your willingness to come onto youtube heroic.
I really do appreciate all this kind feedback I'm getting, but I'm not use to it. A lot of gay friends I had in the past just up and cut ties with me because of the baggage I carry surrounding my gay side. I don't blame them, I'm not a nice person to know because of my crap self-esteem, and I know it. Meet me in person and I'm there for you, I'm a friend. But a straight friend. I don't acknowledge my gay side in person, I'm a straight batchular and it's a role I play very well...
You made me think of a conversation I had with someone on RUclips a couple of months ago. I am a gay male who belongs to Unity, and the other person was an avid athiest. My church and fellow church members (in a small TN town) all know I'm gay, and none feel it is a sin. Of course, Unity doesn't believe in Hell or sin as some churches preach. I think I surprised the other person by not forcing my beliefs on him and just agreeing to disagree. We all should have that opinion, in my opinion.
...CONTINUED FROM BELOW... While some offered support, others condemned me. They didn't know me. I'm a really great guy, even if I say so myself. I go out of my way to help folks even if it puts me out. But these people didn't want to know, the just knew I was gay and instantly I was bad. Some even acused me of being a child molester!! I wouldn't touch a hair on a childs head, I was very hurt by these comments... ...CONTINUED ABOVE...
By that, I mean as kids we were never taught about religious beliefs. We never went to Church, never prayed, never did any of that. My mother did not want use being told what to believe. She wanted our childhood to be pure, and for us to find our own road when we were older. We did learn our manners, and how to be chivalrous, but never anything based on God, Heaven or Hell. We would occasionally hear a certain word, and ask questions. Like about Hell or God.
Sorry, I have to post again. I posted early on in your video before I heard the comments some gay people were leaving. I'm so sorry members of our community are being so hypocritical! Keep your faith, raise your kids how you feel and know is right.
You guys are absolutely amazing. It's nice to know that someone has the same beliefs and can be gay.
You guys are seriously the best!!!!! I love all your videos and am so happy to hear your views on religion! I am catholic and totally accepting of all people, and it's so awful to see how judgmental and ignorant so many people can be. One of my best friends is gay, and this has defiantly been very hard for him. Whenever someone tries to tell him these hateful things I try to remind him that Jesus literally said "whoever hasn't sinned can throw the first stone", and making people feel like their not worthy of God is exactly the opposite of Jesus's message. You guys are so right, so many people see God and Christianity as something that is inherently "judgmental", when in reality the whole basis of it is in love and not judging others.
I love how you also talked about judgment you have received from the gay community too! I completely agree in that judgment can come from any side of an issue. When we demonize a group of people we are inevitably becoming just as ignorant as what we are fighting against! It's awesome how you guys are so cool and great dads!
Much love -Megan
I often show this particular episode in the Comparative Religion classes that I teach at a Bay Area community college when we get to the week on Christianity. I want students to see the breadth of paths within Christianity, and that no one person or group gets to define the religion for everyone else. I also enjoy and appreciate your thoughtfulness, honesty, and openness. Thank you!!! I wish you and your family all the best, and many blessings!
Lori C Thank you so much for telling us this. We hope that the videos we make will continue to help others.
***** You're welcome! Having just read this quarter's student responses to the week, and the video, I'm happy to be able to tell you that the majority of students (probably around 85-90%) responded positively, and said things like, "it was refreshing". Even some of those who have a strong belief that homosexuality is "wrong" reacted positively to you as people and as a family. Thank you again for your contribution to a better world. _/\_
Being gay does not affect one's salvation as scripture says our salvation is based on whether we believe Jesus is God or not. Once one enters that relationship, thru faith, we can not sin away that relationship nor do we want to any more than we would want to hurt someone you love. So glad you found a church family that loves and reflects God's care for you.
I'm glad to have known you both. Keep on sharing.you make my life and soul happier. You complete each other. Keep the videos coming. God Bless
I've been watching several of your videos and am so proud of the both of you! This is an EXCELLENT way to educate those people who have no idea about gay relationships or who have predispositions about what being gay is! Keep up the great work guys! ;-)
Thanks guys for making this video!
I'm a gay Christian, and I believe in the same things you guys do. It's great to see that there are others like me out there.
I hope all people can see that we are all equal, and stop spreading hate.
We all need to learn how to respect eachother, and not stereotyping people.
Thanks again, you guys are the best!
I'm Catholic and still follow the beliefs but I often feel that God is your perception of who He is. Follow the Bible and teachings but overall it is like you said, "it is your choice how you connect with God."
Thank you for sharing this often difficult topic within our community. As a gay Christian myself, I often struggle with my faith and sexuality, hearing radical chistians pitting against gays and visa versa. This tug of war has made some (not all) gays to become non-believers. But as time progressed, I realized that God loves me for who I am and I can still believe in Him and still be a happy gay man.
Thank God that you've became stronger in faith while still being yourselves.
The fact that I, a single, heterosexual, mother, can relate to these issues that you bring up, shows the success of your videos and your general message. Gay parents are like straight parents. The difference is the kind of parent you are. (which, from what I have observed, you are wonderful parents)
Hey guys....
Vince from Ireland here. Was a christian, many years ago...not now, but love what you do. I am also a gay parent. You have set yourselves up, and that is very brave, you are both quite amazing. Crap you get from our own community shows how narrow minded we are. Love and respect...xx
Speaking as a Mormon woman, I completely agree with your friend. I very heavily support gay rights and do believe my church isn't treating gay people as they should. I love your family so much. I can tell that your children are happier and much more well-adjusted than a lot of the heterosexual-family-raised children I know. I commend you both and hope you keep your positive messages out there.
I'm glad you address this as I am catholic (14) and so is my dad but his partner is Methodist and my mum is Anglican. I have also felt, not with my current priest but with a previous one, that some Catholics aren't OK with our sexuality. it is hard as a catholic to find a church were I feel comfortable, and that the church has a way to go. thanks for posting as it helps me to see that my family with my dad and his partner is more common than i used to think. love you guys xx
Bryan expressed my feelings perfectly. I was raised in a conservative church, but now am attending a more liberal church. When I came out to my mom she said, "If you can't help being gay then I don't think there is anything wrong with it. God wouldn't create something bad." I was not forced to go to church when I was a teen and as an adult chose my spirituality. My feeling is the Bible says, "Judge not lest ye be judged." Christians should be careful to follow the Bible here too!
Ronnie
Well articulated argument! I agree with your viewpoints on compatibility of christianity and homosexuality. It takes an incredible leap of faith (at least to me, an agnostic), and I think some fundamentalist / literalist christians simply arent cognizant enough to realize that. Its great how open you are to the idea of your children adopting & incorporating other beliefs into their lives, and doing it yourselves. You guys truly exemplify the foundations of christianity: compassion and love.
One thing I always was taught as a child is 'Walk by faith, not by sight' We live our lives the way he proceeds it, how he gives us the glow/ or is a beacon to gain knowledge of faith, no matter what kind of faith.. Spirituality, or other religions.
It is about time America woke up to the blight of bigotry from those who do a lot of "Hating". Your family is wonderful and I really hope you never meet the bigotry that is producted in the southern states. Religion helps keeps the bigotry alive. I hope you teach your children that these people who preach hate are the narrow minded part of the christian faith ! Lovely video and wish you well in the future !
06:51 - 08:38 ...thanks a lot bryan!!...i am a christian and a gay "trans guy" and I've been having lots of troubles with hanging on to my faith (christianity) and these words have really touched my heart...I really wish my family could see that God made us all different and that he loves us no matter who we are, what we are, or who we love....May God bless your family and i pray that someday people would understand...because in front of God we are all equal...and thanks again...
I'm so happy to see that you're raising your kids openly. I am often upset by parents who shove kids into beliefs or faiths instead of teaching them to be open and accepting. I think a person's faith is their own choice. Religion, unfortuately, seems to only get attention because of extreme groups, which casts it in a negative light. And I think that you have done a good job portraying a more 'average' view of religion.
(P.S: My baby sister has that exact same stuffed cat as your daughter!)
Religion, of any kind, is a set of guidelines. So what do we derive from it? LOVE As long as we keep love foremost in our hearts & go forward with that, we will teach by example. Hopefully not only children, but other adults as well. Bryan & Jay are an excellent example of that. They are truly blessed as a family, not just by having children, but by them all loving each other. That is the strength in family. Stay strong Lafew family!
You guys are my heros! Thanks for being such an inspiration for so many of us, you are the living proof that being gay and having your own family is possible!
God bless
Mani
"They say we'll rot in hell, well I don't think we will, they've branded us enough Outlaws Of Love." -Adam Lambert
Love your videos guys, thanks for posting! Great to hear that your church is so liberal and accepting!
You're very welcome. & thank you for your comments as well. I'm reading and trying to learn from them all.
I have good confidence that Jay & Bryan realize that I care about them & their family. It's hard to hear criticism on videos you put your heart & soul into. Once they catch on to my points, I have confidence they might one day thank me too.
First and foremost, I would like to thank God for sending four of you to create the right awareness of being gay family.
I came from a Buddhist family and my dad was a medium. I am in the other hand was a converted Christian since age 12. Among my sibling in the grace of God 3 out of 4 of us are Christian now.
I Love this Video! As a Gay man and a Buddhist, I too find a lot of conflict with the Gay community and religious faith. It's good to see a rational response to this conflict. Thanks
I just like to say that this is my favorite video. I'm a gay Christian struggling with my sexuality, but I trust in God to help me. You guys rock!
I respect you guys for standing for what you believe. What baffles me about this country is that the one thing that was meant to unite the people of the earth (Christianity, or religion in general) is the main thing that's tearing us apart. It's a dark irony.
I personally do not practice religion anymore. I consider myself to be agnostic. That's not solely because I'm gay. It includes many other things as well. I just try to keep my spiritual life to myself to prevent hate as much a I can.
You guys are good role models to LGBT Christians. You have a great family and are great Dads.
I had originally posted a comment about religion and God in a wrong spot. I remember that I said that I hated when people use God for their prejudice and hatred towards gays. I always ask these people if God is defective or makes mistakes. Usually their response is that God is perfect. My response is then that God intentionally created straight and gay people and he loves us all. I agree with Jay that the Bible was written by man who was influenced by God. The Catholic church was created 270 years after Jesus Christ's death during Emperor Constantine's time to unify the roman empire. Who knows what happened to Jesus's original teachings after all this time. I believe that Jesus wanted us to have a personal relationship with God. We don't need an organized religion for that.
Wow. You guys are awesome! I didn't know that you guys were Christians! I am too and I am gay. I am encouraged to hear a gay couple talk about this and raise children in the Church!
Thanks for a very thoughtful video! I don't see it as some kind of evangelization tool. Instead I see the story of a family describing your own faith in your own terms.
Just as with any growing friendship, it takes time to learn the others' story, background and vision. Thanks for sharing your lives with us. It reminds me of this old quote:
"He drew a circle that shut me out: Heretic, rebel, a thing to flout.
But love and I had the wit to win: We drew a circle that took him in."
Love wins!
YAY! This is a very good message! I truly believe your family is putting some cracks into the thoughts of homophobic people, and causing them to think about how they percieve gay people; how they treat gay people!
Continue the great work!
Erik =)
Please don't think badly of me. Here I am highlighting my situation and I'm concerned it will cause me to lose respect, not that I can blame anyone for doing so. I'm a gay guy who puts his family first. Some will say I have to live my life for me, and I agree, but I love my family too much to cause them any hurt and if me going out to find a man would do just that, then I'd rather live a life of loneliness no matter how much I hate it.
Thanks again for the kind feedback, much appreciated.
Great job guys on this video. I really appreciate the fact that you are standing up for what you believe in and call on everyone both within and outside of the LGBT community to treat all religions with dignity and respect. I also really admire with what you have to say with what you believe. You're wonderful role models to gay families and gay people. :).
Hey, great video. Another "grew up conservative but not so much anymore" type guy here. I think it's examples like yours that will continue that march toward change. Good on you.
I love that you made this vid. I think many people are confused by how a gay person can consider themselves a Christian. However I would like to address how several of your points resonated with me. I was raised in a strict Catholic household. I do not consider myself Catholic anymore, but I do consider myself a Christian. I have family members who do not think I am one simply because I have a different faith. I, too, am raising my child to know and love God, and to keep an open mind.
the way you pour your love adn care to your kids makes you great Christian, love is what matters to God, and i think you guys have a place in heaven for just being awsome parents and standing for human rights in general. my sincere admiration all the way from Colombia. (sorry for my spelling)
I love you guys. I am an Atheist and I can clearly see that your kids are in very good hands. It seems to me that you are teaching them good principals and leading by example. I'm gay and I think you guys are really setting a great example for all families, gay or straight.
This is awesome. Simply awesome. Your life, your testimony is a direct reflection of God's love and Christ's teachings. I have no doubts in my mind that your videos will radically transform people's lives and bring an enormous amount of joy and peace.
God bless you all :D
I live in the Bible Belt and was raised in a conservative church. My parents were not radical and let me choose my own belief system. I feel much like you. There is a radical element in all religions and they are what causes dissention. The book, Battle for God, is an excellent discussion of this fact. It's a great book. I commend you guys for holding to your faith and believing in a Heavenly father who loves us unconditionally.
Ronnie
You guys r awsome, just hope that someday, not only U.S.A. will understand that value comes from the heart, but the whole world too.
I just luv your videos keep them comming!!!
From Brazil!!
You guys are truly awesome. I look forward to every one of your vlogs. To me you epitomize good Christian parents. Thanks so much for opening this needed discussion.
First of all, I would like to commend you on your video series. I bumped into them by accident while researching on a topic for my blog and I'm very glad I did. I have linked them to my blog, because if they have the profound effect they had on me, that is always a good start. As a Christian religions scholar and a scientist, I take a different approach on my blog as an activist for equal rights. I try to enlighten on the reality of the Scriptures based on my studies following in the research of others, as well as my own and demystify the credibility of those who use the Scriptures to attack the GLBT lifestyle. This video in particular has me sitting here thinking on my approach, which is somehow confrontational. As you, I no critic of religion, however I do have a hard punchline when it comes to its institutionalization. Thank you for letting me see the softer, but not less efficient approach to a most difficult subject. God Bless you!
Oh I'm all for open discussion and education. For me, agreeing to disagree is what I believe in when both sides have stated their case and neither is willing to change their beliefs. And it is in beliefs only that this applies. If others are harming or oppressing others, then actions are definitely called for. Agreeing to disagree is for someone's beliefs, not actions.
I totally love your guys wardrobe(s), you should do a closet clothing edition episode, since the Fall Season is right around the corner! I have absolutley been dying to know where to by vintage starwars T's every time you were them. ttyl
It can be easy for gay people to generalize Christians as hateful. It's how I felt for most of my life, long before I recognized my sexuality. One of my earliest memories was getting kicked out of my best friend's house by his parents for being Hindu. If hate is all you see, assuming all Christians are like that is an easy trap to fall into.
Seeing some Christians fighting against prop8 last year started to change my mind.
Thanks for making this video. It's given me something to think about.
I know this video was posted a long time ago, but I want to thank you guys for sharing and having this conversation. :) Good stuff
Just starting to come out to family and friends and you two are so inspiring! You gave me the courage to tell my dad, who is totally supportive, and I thank you for that!! L.G.B.T. LOVE FOREVER!!!!
Well done guys...from Vince in Ireland, another gay parent. I don't believe but love it that you do and say so in such an open, honest positive manner....x
I admire the fact that you can admit that you believe based on faith. I used to be a fundamentalist christian, but I cannot believe anything on faith anymore. I do concede though, that as sentient beings relying on our five senses, we take a lot of what we call "reality" based on faith. I think the difference between religious faith and faith in reality, is that with faith in reality, we continually try to verify what we know or believe through science and investigating our world.
Good job laying out what the basics of your belief system are. Also a strong reminder that religiosity or lack thereof is a very personal thing, and that all beliefs are based on FAITH, because none of us is sure what the absolute truth. As for me, I worship at my local reform Jewish congregation, a mainstream group of people who a few years ago hired an openly gay Rabbi to go along with the Gay Cantor, which means that our entire religious staff is gay.
Hi Guys,
I really liked this video a lot ....as much as I was feeling down, watching this video really soothed my heart. To see and hear what you've just said, I pray to the divine to bless you, your children and all the loving people who have and open loving hearts as you do.
Peace and love.
I am so very glad that you guys did not abandon you faith just because you are gay.I know so many gay people turn their backs on religion because of things that are written in the Bible.I guess they don't stop to think that the Bible was not written by God.No where in the Bible does it mention anything about loving relationships between to men.In fact the word homosexual doesn't appear at all in the Bible.All of the sexual acts between men in the Bible are actually committed by heterosexual
Depfox, great video. Thanks very much to you and your family for sharing your story and for not backing down. You send a great message, and I look forward to more videos.
All the best from TigerLily
I have so many questions about the bible and homosexuals. Being gay and Christian myself I was taught it was wrong. Recently I joined GSA. (Gay straight alliance) and joined a retreat they are going on that goes over it. Thank you for sharing these gay family values videos and others. They made me go beyond my comfort level and come out to others too. Peace!
Hi Guys, great stuff as always. I agree 100% with your approach to dealing with this issue with the kids. I think the duty of a parent is to put as many things on your kids plates as is possible & then encourage them to taste as much as they care to. You can't force them to taste anything because undoubtedly they will resist. And you can't force them to avoid tasting anything because they undoubtedly will. Just give them as many choices as you can. Goes for religion & more.
BTW- My cat is JoJo.
Great Video I'm glad you guys are able make peace with your religious background. I struggled for many years because I allowed others to place a stumbling block between God and I. It is still difficult to deal with people who are so caught up in the "letter of the law" they forget the love God put in their heart.
Live the Law of Love and the rest will fall into place. Those who judge and hate will have to explain themselves to the Creator one day.
its funny, for the longest i've been avoiding this video because i'm not all that religious and i didn' really know what to expect out of it. last night i had a heated argument with my friend that went from gay to religion and after watching this, it really said a lot. great video guys, and i noticed for once bryan wasn't wearing those black jeans of his :-P
Can't wait! Oh no!! You are getting close to the big one that begins with a "4'? This really is a quick ride..but you are riding it in style! ;-)
We have all chosen to believe that we don't know whether there is a God or not, and even if there is an afterlife. We choose to not let that ignorance bother us, and to just wait until we die and then find out the truth. We also try our best to be respectful of other people's religions, and if one of our friends asked us to go to church with them, we would do it and try to have a good time. This is what my mother truly wanted was for us to not be close-minded.
Omg!!! Guys if I thought in some point that you were awesome... now its even more!!!
I really think you said everything I was thinking a few weeks ago (I dont remember what video I was having this conversation on) but I am now more fan of you than before.
I know that you guys are making a difference!!
Thank you for sending this video to me hon. I really thank you for the wise message. you sound like my father when you talk about people being the same especially when you said that gays love the same way that straight loves. You are so right with what you said and I really thank you for the reminder of diversity. Thank you hon :)
You both are role models for gay christians, you both are amazing dads!!
If I had someone like Jay and Bryan here, my self-esteem would probably be a lot better. Thank God for the internet where I have gay friends who will listen and talk to me when I need to. But even then, because past friends cut ties with me because of my gay baggage, I do be hesitant to talk about my issues. The result, my gay side is pressed 24/7 and it causes me bad stress.
Hi guys when people raise the deuteronomy question I tell them to read everything written there as it also is sending people who eat prawns and pork to hell. Paul the apostle said If you keep one of the laws then you must live by the whole law and salvation in Christ is made null and void. Salvation is a work of God, not ours.
As the scriptures says "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not as a result of works, so that no one may boast."
What a great family you have. God has given you both the gift of faith - faith is how we live - the righteous live by faith. And whoever abides in love Abides in god and god in he for god is love. Stay strong and I praise you for caring so wonderfully for your children. God bless
She did want us to find our own happiness, but to also be a good person to anyone we met in our lives and never hate them for whatever belief they have. Homosexuality was actually a word I did not learn of till high school. My school area never really had that much trouble with homophobic behavior, so none of my classmates made fun of gays around elementary through middle school. And I never saw the word that much. Not even for racism. I didn't learn about racist acts till middle school.
Wow. That really was a deep. I will admit at first I didn't want to watch this one because religion is such a heated thing to talk about but now I'm glad I did. I too was raised Christian, that gays would burn & blah blah blah but I don't see it that way. I believe it just like what you said Jay. That a loving god doesn't hate his creations.
Also when the time come I hope I'll see you and Bryan and your adorable kids up there too! :)
I thank Gimmeabreakman for showing me your channel. You guys are really smart and act like all religious people should. Not shove your religion down others throats.
This video made me subscribe to you.
Christianity appeals to children for one main reason: the Nativity. A baby in a manger surrounded by friendly animals and receiving gifts is a wonderful marketing tool. Not to mention all those carols written about Christmas that are simple enough for any child to learn and fall in love with. To a lesser extent, the chocolate Easter bunny does the same thing.
PS - among the many things I am in life, one of them is a United Church of Canada organist and music leader...
To finish i'd like to say: I don't argue with a person for he/she belief, but when this is something over exaggerated i feel very uncomfortable. There are persons around the world who likes to discriminate your life for doing this (or not ), or that, and this is something i will never gonna let happen in my life. I do what i want, when i want, and nobody (except for my mom, sister and cat - Mel xD) has nothing with that!
Loved the video, thanks again depfox! the best for your family! :)
Good video! I know what you mean about being harassed and getting dumped on by both the "religious right" and the gay community for being and seeing ones self as a gay christian. I truly appreciate the videos, please keep up the good work!
Peace
I know we think it is difficult being gay in the present but things are getting better. I have often thought how horrible it would to have been gay in our society..let's say in the 1930's!! The sharing of ideas and knowledge like on youtube is priceless. Thanks for making us think...
Thank you Emeralds222 too! ;-)
Yes Jay..I know. I was really lucky with my family. When my older sister found out she called me and started crying. She said."I am not crying because you are gay..I am crying because I wish you had told me when you were in HS. I feel sad that you had to deal with this alone. I could have helped you." I felt like a fool for hiding it from them. But, we are all so scared..society makes us.
Gay a choice?..I think not! BUT! Your choices have illuminated your souls! (and all of us youtubers)
I have personally had problems with my own with religious views or beliefs but I believe as well no matter what sexuality , race gender, etc. religion as in the Bill of Rights is just as it says a right , o choose whether or not to be religious and what religion you choose is your own choice and to force religion or views thereof is wrong no matter what and to let your children choose their own happiness no matter what the issue is so astounding. Thank you guys for your videos!
you are very smart people and a really lovely family and an inspiration for young gay men as me. im in my coming out phase and videos like this make it soooooooo much easier. so much respect for you.
Damn where did you get that darth vader shirt it is awesome.
I grew up in a family where my mother is a christian and my father is an atheist. And they let me choose what I belive or not believe. I Grew up to understand why there is the idea of god, and why sometimes i really understand christian people ( well, well adjusted christian people like you) I respect every type of believe, because in everyone´s heart we need to get the courage to face life, sometimes we believe in something bigger, sometimes we just believe in ourself.
Out of space...crap...
Thank you so much for the video. I guess I'm fortunate to be living in Toronto, being a really big city there are many gay-positive churches and wonderful clergymen/clergywomen who dedicate their lives to GLBTQ Christians that face suffering for who they are.
Just to tell everyone, no matter what people say, you can follow Jesus and be gay at the same time! God bless you all :D
I has been curious as what your faith is. I am quite pleased to see you guys share a faith with me.
Personally, I find it difficult to talk my own faith with Christians or Gays because I look at Christianity vastly different than my conservative family.
Your views on free spirituality is quite beautiful and the fact that you aren't Spiritual-hater is also beautiful.
Keep up the good work you two, or was it four?..... maybe six with those cats involved...
Thank you for posting this video! Watching your videos makes my day.
...dude, I bet...jusxt form reading the ammount of feedback comments you've gotten...
I had to think about this a LOT recently as flew over to DC for my godson (who I love! ;D) 's Communion and Birthday. I was and still am so grateful (and quite attentive to) the fact that my aunt and uncle chose me for this relationship/responsibility, and I reaaaly wanna do best by them all - esp. Konrad so was a bit anxious about this visit but also the future as I knew that coming out to the family
Must say, I'm gay and christian and I fully believe in God and evolution because God wanted us to move on and grow in mind, body and spirit! I think God wants us to have religion evolve with us too, to not necessarily look at a book written 2,000+ yrs ago and still live by that exactly! Everything must evolve in order for there to be happiness and progress,religion being the biggest one and that it shouldn't be a scary or impossible thing either! I love you guys, you give hope to me, thanks!
My mother and her brother were raised in an extremely religious household. She considers herself a Roman Catholic, however, she does not believe in organized religion. She doesn't go to church, and she doesn't acknowledge religious events and groups. She feels that she has her belief, and that she should not be told by other people what to believe. She considers the church manipulative, and she would rather follow God and not man. Which is why my siblings and I were never introduced to religion.
Hi Paul-a big hug here from Jim in Ohio! I know-it is so wrong to be made to feel guilty about who you are. None of us chose to be gay. I can tell you are a sweet person and you deserve to have someone in your life to share it with. Late bloomer here.30..but some guys take it to the grave. So unfair. Please.please don't be one of them because of your family. I know you love your family but our life here is short. You are a beautiful person-.any Irish gay lad would be lucky to be yr mate
Thank you for referencing the video & the internet. This is a good discussion.
I take the stand that homophobia does not equal "hate".
Homophobia certainly leads to hate, however, by itself, it is simply means fear through non-understanding.
My main point is that the word "hate" is tossed around incorrectly & too freely. It is an awful word and used without concern on the effects it has on the reader & listener.
I still haven't found any non-believer that "hates" gay persons.
I had originally posted a comment about religion and God in a wrong spot. I remember that I said that I hated when people use God for their prejudice and hatred towards gays. I always ask these people if God is defective or makes mistakes. Usually their response is that God is perfect. My response is then that God intentionally created straight and gay people and he loves us all. I agree with Jay that the Bible was written by man who was influenced by God. The Catholic church was created 270 years after Jesus Christ's death during Emperor Constantine's time to unify the roman empire. Who knows what happened to Jesus's original teachings after all this time. I believe that Jesus wanted us to have a personal relationship with God. We don't need an organized religion for that.
Final other gay Christian many of my gay friends ask the same thing. Also my husband says that he doesn't believe in organized religion. But he has watch some of the show I have watched started to understand but he never once open the bible. I want are daughter to grow into Christian home but have free will as she gets older. Thanks your awesome and would be awesome to meet some time.
Hey Paul-you do not sound like a "fool"..actually you sound like a very nice guy...someone that would sacrifice your own needs to keep your family together. I am not in your shoes but I can tell you that I did the "alone" thing till I was 30. It is way too lonely. Having someone in your life is complicated but well worth it. My partner changed my life for the better. We have had a blast!
AND!! Listen Mr.!! You are CUTE! Lotsa guys in Ireland are missing out on a hottie!
Cheers!
Jim
whichever path you choose, i wish you the best of luck and hope you find hapiness in your life you deserve. im straight and i cant imagine how hard it must be to have to deal with the issues you have to deal with, especially being from such a christian background, which is not very accepting. personally i beleive that if god is real, then you were born like that for a reason and should embrace it. be yourself, love yourself and be a role model! life is 2short to spend it hating yourself
I think it's really great what you guys are doing on youtube...thanks for sharing this!
When I write, you can bet it also comes from my heart. I have a passion to help persons and when I am not spending time on the internet (which I am spending a lot of time lately) I am spending the rest of my day helping people.
It is truly my wish for world peace & I although you may not "get it" yet because you find it difficult to hear what I have to say, rest assured I that I do have great respect for you and your efforts and find your willingness to come onto youtube heroic.
every episode selena comes she always carrys a stuffed animal. thats so cute!
I really do appreciate all this kind feedback I'm getting, but I'm not use to it. A lot of gay friends I had in the past just up and cut ties with me because of the baggage I carry surrounding my gay side. I don't blame them, I'm not a nice person to know because of my crap self-esteem, and I know it. Meet me in person and I'm there for you, I'm a friend. But a straight friend. I don't acknowledge my gay side in person, I'm a straight batchular and it's a role I play very well...
You made me think of a conversation I had with someone on RUclips a couple of months ago. I am a gay male who belongs to Unity, and the other person was an avid athiest. My church and fellow church members (in a small TN town) all know I'm gay, and none feel it is a sin. Of course, Unity doesn't believe in Hell or sin as some churches preach. I think I surprised the other person by not forcing my beliefs on him and just agreeing to disagree. We all should have that opinion, in my opinion.
...CONTINUED FROM BELOW...
While some offered support, others condemned me. They didn't know me. I'm a really great guy, even if I say so myself. I go out of my way to help folks even if it puts me out. But these people didn't want to know, the just knew I was gay and instantly I was bad. Some even acused me of being a child molester!! I wouldn't touch a hair on a childs head, I was very hurt by these comments...
...CONTINUED ABOVE...
YOU ARE A BLESSING.
By that, I mean as kids we were never taught about religious beliefs. We never went to Church, never prayed, never did any of that. My mother did not want use being told what to believe. She wanted our childhood to be pure, and for us to find our own road when we were older. We did learn our manners, and how to be chivalrous, but never anything based on God, Heaven or Hell. We would occasionally hear a certain word, and ask questions. Like about Hell or God.
Thank you for this summersonset. I will watch this. I try & watch as much Richard Dawkins as possible.
Sorry, I have to post again. I posted early on in your video before I heard the comments some gay people were leaving. I'm so sorry members of our community are being so hypocritical! Keep your faith, raise your kids how you feel and know is right.