Episode 692: Brian Pedersen, Gay Former Latter-day Saint, Atheist Turned Christian

My friend Brian Pedersen (age 34, University of Utah English Graduate, Lives in Utah) shares his unique journey. Brian starts with growing up in Sandy, Utah, realizing he was gay at around 11, living his life as an anti-Mormon, but then opening the door to a different path. I'm 2020, at the beginning of the pandemic, Brian started to read Christian/Religious authors in an honest attempt to make sense of the world and find more peace and hope in his life. That door of extensive reading, listening, and meditation led Brian to a deep belief in God and Jesus and their character and teachings to bring us together as the same human family. Brian shares some of his thoughtful personal writings titled “what is the contemplative mind”. I was deeply moved hearing Brian’s journey of self-awareness, humility, and thoughtfulness to open new doors. I was also deeply moved hearing Brian’s broad and expansive view of a loving, kind, forgiving, and welcoming God. This podcast is unique and less of the story about Brian’s journey to navigate his sexual orientation—but more about Brian’s personal journey of understanding and connecting with God. If you are no longer connected with God and/or Jesus and are thinking about re-opening that door, Brian story may help you. And if you are looking for additional insights into God’s love for you and all of humanity, Brian’s words may help you. You are a good man, Brian. Thank you for being on the podcast and sharing your story. You help us come together as the same human family. Brian can be reached at: tober04@gmail.com