So my family's always been this picture perfect Christian family, where my dad's a preacher of some sort, and suprisingly enough, I'm a volunteer Sunday school teacher. I love my dad, but I always feel guilty whenever I go to church with him, and whenever he asks if this friend of mine is my boyfriend. And whenever I try to tell him, I never manage to get anything out since I really don't want him to be disappointed or sad with me, since I've always been the model sibling too. But worse of all, I'm not sure if he's homophobic or anything. What do I do?
The best thing to do when coming out is making sure you're physically and emotionally safe. Sometimes, it's not safe to come out. My advice is to make sure you feel ready. I know it's not easy, but in this situation consider yourself first. If you want, you can write a letter to them, or something like that. Maybe try coming out to your mom, or a sibling, or a good friend first. Best of wishes, and don't hesitate to contact me if you need to talk, or anymore advice
Maybe with a bit of scripture that justifies your feelings? Doesn't have to be anything really obscure or abstract; there's plenty in the bible about love and familial ties.
I actually found this yesterday and thought it was a great resource... The Bible Does NOT Condemn Homosexuality Society has made accommodations, compromises from the biblical text on a number of issues. Divorce, adultery, contraceptives, sex outside marriage, working on the Sabbath, etc...
A lot will depend on your denomination and it's approach to scripture. A preacher in the Episcopal/Anglican Church might have a very different set of values to a preacher in one of the Baptist or Pentecostal Churches. Does your church view The Bible as inerrant, infallible and unchanging or does it take a broader and more relaxed view? As a Sunday School teacher, you should know how your church approaches scripture and this should help to inform you of your Dad's attitude. If he hangs on every word, as written, it may be more difficult and uncomfortable for you, but that's not certain. Even amongst the most evangelical groupings there is now a growing acceptance of LGBT people. Can you maybe start by telling us how your church approches The Bible?
