Episode 630: McKenna Goodrich, Age 17, Lesbian Latter-day Saint

My friend McKenna Goodrich joins us via Zoom from her home in Georgia to bravely share her story in hopes of helping others. McKenna talks about coming out to herself knowing she was different and then coming out to others. McKenna talks her personal relationship with Jesus and love from her Heavenly Father that is helping her on her journey. McKenna (whose Mom Alicia Hall was on Episode 596) talks about the experiences that led her to understand she is lesbian how that, along with being a beloved daughter of God, is part of her identity—both being good things. McKenna talks about her patriarchal blessing, why she is a member of the Church, why she hopes to serve and mission, and her hopes for the future. McKenna is a member of Gen Z of which 19.7% identify as LGBTQ (Gallup). Great episode for Y/W leaders to listen and then counsel together on how to support Y/W who are not straight/cis (including those who are not out). McKenna has great support from her Y/W leaders. Thank you, McKenna, for being on the podcast. You are so brave. You being open gives hope to other queer Latter-day Saints and helps all of us consider who to better support our queer friends. Thank you for your courage. You have a great life ahead of you! Podcast Links: Ministering to LGBTQ Latter-day Saints Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1433556613672143 Richard Ostler Book: Embracing LGBTQ Latter-day Saints: Deseret Book: www.deseretbook.com/p/listen-learn-and-love-embracing-lgbtq-latter-day-saints Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/1462135773