My friend, Elder Shane Carpenter, joins us as a full-time missionary from the California, Anaheim Mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to share his story as an openly gay missionary. Elder Carpenter states he wanted to be "my authentic self so I could become something better,” and be in a better position to help people come unto Christ. His podcast episode, with approval from his Mission Leaders, was recorded in the final days of his successful mission.
 
Elder Carpenter talks about coming out to and receiving support from his parents (Diane and Scott Carpenter), Bishop, and Stake President before leaving to serve as well as during his mission experience. He then shares about his supportive Mission Leaders who asked Elder Carpenter to conduct 2 mission trainings surrounding his experience as a gay Latter-day Saint—including 2 unprecedented mission--wide Q&As focused on teaching and loving our LGBTQ+ friends.
 
Elder Carpenter talks about his supportive companions, becoming a trainer, and success helping people come unto Christ through our Restored Gospel. You can read more about his experience becoming a trainer with this Facebook post: https://www.facebook.com/imnotashaned/posts/684923212526060
 
This is a great podcast for all LGBTQ+ members considering a mission as well as all those wishing to better support LGBTQ+ missionaries and church members. All involved in this story are helping to create Zion—where we are unified in our needed difference to help more come unto Christ.
 
Thank you, Elder Carpenter, for your courage—you are a true disciple of Christ—you are also a warrior and a pioneer. All involved in this story are helping to pave the way for future LGBTQ+ missionaries. Thanks for helping all of our Heavenly Parents’ children feel they are loved and needed.

** Please Check Out My LGBTQ Book At: ** 
Deseret Book: www.deseretbook.com/p/listen-learn-and-love-embracing-lgbtq-latter-day-saints 

Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/1462135773

** Want to develop church-supported LGBTQ activities in your local area?  Please join our FB group below **

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1433556613672143

Episode 570: Elder Shane Carpenter, Gay Missionary, Disciple of Christ.

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