On LGBTQ+ and Mormonism in Who We Thought We Were

A semi-prominent topic explored in Who We Thought We Were is how LGBTQ+ people take part in the LDS (Mormon) church.

This is an aspect of the book I’ve discussed quite a bit with friends and family, and where I spent the most time researching, conversing, and requesting feedback on.

However, I’ve not advertised the book in that regard. Primarily because the main theme is about friendship and there’s a ton more to the story than religious discussion, but also because I didn’t want to pitch a book on critiquing a religious denomination.

But as I’ve begun having conversations with those who’ve finished the book — or stopped hearing from those who started it, I want to talk about it.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has quite a bit of work to do in how it treats those who are queer, regardless of their membership. (There are books that thoroughly explore this history, one of my favorites being Tabernacles of Clay: Sexuality and Gender in Modern Mormonism by Taylor Petrey.) While LDS leadership no longer considers basic attraction to someone of the same gender a sin, doctrine and expectations of those who are not heterosexual and still want to be part of the church is a steep ask: no acting on that attraction is allowed in order to be considered worthy to enter the temple (where the most sacred actions take place), let alone obtain the highest reaches of heaven.

My book explores this in part. There is religious-based homophobia within the story, as well as very difficult conversations to read about.

Some believe I’m too critical of the church in the book; others that I’m not critical enough. I can assure you that while my book is fiction, the painful attitudes expressed by some characters are alive and well within church membership.

That said, before anyone shuts my book down as “anti-Mormon literature,” I do show that nuance exists. I know many active members firsthand who believe the church should formally expand its recognition of equality of marriage and salvation to LGBTQ+ people, and are steadfast allies working for inclusion and understanding. A key character shows that effort.

For those who hesitate to read about the church in a critical light, please know I’m not coming from an anti-Mormon perspective. I have been part of this church my entire life. I know the benefits; I show some of those benefits in Who We Thought We Were. But this is a very serious reality that is one reason people are leaving the church. This call for correction is coming from among the ranks.

I’m hopeful that the plot line exploring one man’s experience growing up gay in the church will humanize things a bit for those who haven’t given it consideration before.

Order Who We Thought We Were today.