I liked the explanation of identity, expression, sex, and attraction. That was very helpful in understanding the components that go into what people are experiencing. I agree that the under 30 crowd accepts all of these variations as all equally viable. I am still learning about what kids are consuming on social media. I've been lucky enough to have kids who share some of what they encounter there and we can have meaningful dialog. Kids are looking for some clarity in this sea of confusing thoughts and feelings. I'm sure it can be hard to figure everything out. One thing that attracts kids to the LGBTQ community may be that it appears to be very inclusive and sometimes can feel much more inclusive than church does. Belonging is the core longing that I think may be being expressed in the desire to seek out a community of like-minded people. I'm sure that your compassion and humor will go a long way toward reaching the kids and letting them know that there are people in the church who are willing to walk with them through this confusing time.
Thanks, Heather. Always appreciate your insights and encouragement. Given what you said, perhaps I can end with a challenge for them to be the loving and inclusive church of the future.
I liked the explanation of identity, expression, sex, and attraction. That was very helpful in understanding the components that go into what people are experiencing. I agree that the under 30 crowd accepts all of these variations as all equally viable. I am still learning about what kids are consuming on social media. I've been lucky enough to have kids who share some of what they encounter there and we can have meaningful dialog. Kids are looking for some clarity in this sea of confusing thoughts and feelings. I'm sure it can be hard to figure everything out. One thing that attracts kids to the LGBTQ community may be that it appears to be very inclusive and sometimes can feel much more inclusive than church does. Belonging is the core longing that I think may be being expressed in the desire to seek out a community of like-minded people. I'm sure that your compassion and humor will go a long way toward reaching the kids and letting them know that there are people in the church who are willing to walk with them through this confusing time.
Thanks, Heather. Always appreciate your insights and encouragement. Given what you said, perhaps I can end with a challenge for them to be the loving and inclusive church of the future.