Am I Gay?
Is It True That I Am Gay?
The Process of Exiting Cultural Christianity and Embracing an LGBTQ+ Identity in Favor of a Genuine Faith in Jesus Christ
COMPOSED BY: GARRY INGRAHAM
Explore the transformative path of Garry Ingraham as he abandoned superficial cultural Christianity and the perceived void of an LGBTQ+ identity for a life characterized by "a sense of belonging, a clear purpose, and profound meaning derived from the unparalleled and everlasting affection of God."
Synopsis
"Within the landscape of the American church, my apprehension is that a great number of individuals have become desensitized to the gospel," my spiritual leader observed. "They harbor the conviction that they possess the genuine article, yet they are mistakenly equating a superficial religious observance with an authentic Christian conviction" (Reverend John Hawco).
This statement perfectly encapsulates the spiritual framework I grew up with, deeply embedded within my Christian family and community. Furthermore, I harbored a hidden truth—a multitude of deeply shameful secrets. The trauma of sexual abuse and premature sexualization at the hands of my peers resulted in a battle with pornography addiction and habitual self-gratification. Compounding these difficulties, during my formative years as a young boy and adolescent within a rigorously fundamentalist Christian society, my emotional and romantic inclinations were directed towards other males. I existed under the pervasive influence of a religious system that prioritized adherence to rules, while simultaneously, my yearning for same-sex relationships and a curiosity about LGBTQ+ culture intensified considerably.
This narrative recounts the story of a divine being who persistently seeks us out. It is a testament that illuminates areas where the church frequently falters in addressing issues of sexual sin or struggles with personal identity. More significantly, it portrays how the church can elevate its capacity to minister with greater effectiveness—being fully equipped to navigate life with both unwavering truth and profound love, offering support through resilience and empathy. This involves extending an invitation to individuals who are hurting to engage in authentic and developing connections with Jesus and His true fellowship. The church has the potential to transform into a dynamic, well-prepared "teaching hospital," capable of addressing the myriad of challenges and brokenness experienced by individuals today who earnestly seek a sense of belonging, a defined purpose, loving acceptance, and meaningful existence.
At one point, I was profoundly wounded and adrift. I extend an invitation for you to delve into my personal account—detailing precisely how I discovered a sense of belonging, a clear purpose, and enduring meaning through the magnificent and eternal love bestowed by God.
Regarding the Author
Garry and Melissa Ingraham established the Love & Truth Network (LTN) in the year 2013. This national organization is dedicated to empowering pastors and Christian leaders to cultivate environments that foster both security and profound change, thereby facilitating the restoration of holistic relationships and sexuality, alongside a grounded biblical identity. Prior to inaugurating LTN, Garry dedicated twelve years to serving as the Pastor of Soul-Care Ministries within the pastoral leadership of a substantial congregation in Upstate New York. Garry and Melissa, having navigated their own identity confusions, first encountered each other in 2004, entered into marriage in 2007, and are now blessed with two remarkable sons. They reside in Phoenix, Arizona, where Melissa actively manages her Christian counseling practice and provides home education for their children, while Garry fulfills his role as the Executive Director of LTN. Their lives are full, and they attest that God's goodness far surpasses any expectation.