Episode 448: Kendall Harward, Gay Latter-day Saint

Listen, Learn & Love Hosted by Richard Ostler

My friend Kendall Harward (Ghana, West Africa RM) bravely shares his story. Kendall talks about life before his mission pushing down this aspect of his essence, talking to his Bishop, and going on his mission believing feelings of being gay was a phase that ended. Kendall bravely talks about realizing being gay was still part of him during his mission and how he navigated the complexity of his situation including overwhelming shame for his feelings. Kendall talks about returning home hoping he would marry a woman and fulfill his hope for a family and life within the Church. Kendall talks about dating women and how he feels that is not going to be his path. He talks about dating men, going through the church repentance process, and his recent positive of loving experience with his Bishop and Stake President and his desire to stay connected to his local ward. Kendall also talks about the need for self-care and how seeing a therapist and taking care of himself is needed and not selfish and invites everyone to talk care of themselves. Thank you Kendall for being on the podcast. You are brave and courageous. Talking about this tender subject removes shame and helps others walking a similar road to feel hope and better connect with our Heavenly Parents and the Savior. You are a great man. This world is a better place with you here. ** Please Check Out My Book At: ** Deseret Book: www.deseretbook.com/p/listen-learn-and-love-embracing-lgbtq-latter-day-saints Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/1462135773