Discovering Faithful Inclusion as a Family
A Reflection from Joshua Yue, Good Shepherd Member
In 2008, I embraced Christianity, profoundly moved by the saving grace of Jesus, which revealed the depth of my need for His salvation. My spiritual journey took a challenging turn as I encountered teachings in various churches branding homosexuality as a severe sin, often linking it to the biblical account of Sodom and Gomorrah’s destruction. Wrestling with conflicting emotions, I led a double life, presenting a devout façade in church while grappling with my authentic self.
Despite my internal struggle, a pivotal moment occurred when I met Charlie, now my spouse. It became evident that our connection was part of God’s plan for me. Embracing our love and commitment, we embarked on a journey towards becoming fathers to twins. This realization compelled us to seek a church where our love would be accepted without compromise.
After exploring several LGBTQ+ affirming churches in the Madison area, we discovered Good Shepherd—a welcoming community where the truth is proclaimed, and all are embraced. Our experiences in this inclusive space have been deeply enriching, allowing us to worship authentically and fostering a sense of belonging.
Currently, logistical constraints mean we can’t attend every Sunday service together as my spouse works and resides in Madison, while I live about an hour away. However, as I plan to relocate to Madison in the near future, we eagerly anticipate more consistent participation in the supportive and affirming environment that Good Shepherd provides.
