Dear Brother Packer
I am impressed to respond to your address in the Sunday morning session of the October 2010 Conference. Because we can’t speak directly - this is my forum.
Bro. Packer, you referred to my sexuality as "impure and unnatural" and went further to say that it is not “inborn” after all "Why would our heavenly father do that to anyone? …”
Your question on its face is flawed. Because I fall outside “the plan” you have wrongly accepted that my sexuality is a sin, a burden and something that requires either healing or repentance. I want to convey to you that it is not. In fact, your feelings are miles away from my sure knowledge that I am in good standing with the Lord. I want you to know that I have been assured, through the spirit, time and time again that there is nothing immoral or shameful about me.
To paraphrase, the brethrens’ position as I understand it … the Church doesn't ask homosexuals to do anything it doesn't also ask of its other single adult members - to live celibate lives.
This simply isn't true.
The Church shows constant love and support to our single brothers and sisters: giving single members church callings; urging them to date, to flirt, to get crushes, to fall in love, to marry even sponsoring wards and activities to get them together to accomplish this. We ask them to be celibate - until they find someone to share their life and intimacy with. We go out of our way to give them something of immeasurable value in the struggle to keep the law of chastity - hope - hope that no matter how difficult this emotional and physical loneliness is, it is temporary, that when married (if not on earth then beyond) all will be available to them.
I have been asked not just to be celibate but to be celibate forever, to live a life alone eternally.
The question of sexual intimacy aside - can you imagine being denied the ability to become attracted to, flirt with, get a crush on, hold hands with, or fall in love with your sweet wife? With all trace of romantic love and emotional intimacy denied you what emptiness do you envision? I can’t for the life of me understand the brethrens’ position. It is a position that leads Heavenly Father’s children into despair. I have been reminded all my life that we should not blame the Lord for the human mistakes of the members or leadership. Because the spirit speaks to me I am compelled to apply that principle to you on this topic.
So, without a supportive path for me within the church I have drawn a distinction between celibate and being chaste.
I value and have always sought a chaste life. Although, the blessings of marriage are currently denied to me, I live in a committed, monogamous relationship and practice the Gospel virtues of love, commitment, and fidelity that my loving parents taught me at home. I will continue to do so proudly.
Sincerely,
Jennifer McKinley
Ps
Next time you may want to consider saving the joke writer for a less important topic. Playing to the crowd for laughs may keep them engaged but I found you callous.
http://new.lds.org/general-conference/watch/2010/10?lang=eng&vid=624220753001&cid=5
1 comment:
Well said. Thanks.
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