In this first episode, we jump right into a deep and personal talk about faith and sexuality—two parts of who we are that are often framed as opposing forces in religious spaces. My guest, Jake, and I chat about what it means to fully accept both parts of ourselves as good and even sacred. Jake and I both come from the LDS church. Although the primary focus of this podcast is on interfaith dialogue, I also value intrafaith conversations and the diverse perspectives they bring.
I’m super passionate about how our faith communities deal with sexuality—and how they often brush it aside. It’s usually treated like it’s something we should keep under control or hide. I believe we need to celebrate the fact that we’re both sexual and spiritual beings.
Episode Breakdown
⏳ 00:00 Introduction
⏳ 04:56 How church teachings shaped our views on sexuality
⏳ 09:00 Structured vs. exploratory faith
⏳ 17:55 Reconciling faith and sexuality
⏳ 31:02 Releasing shame and setting personal boundaries
⏳ 44:00 Why faith and sexuality can coexist
⏳ 50:00 Closing thoughts
References
For the Strength of Youth (2001): This version of the LDS Church's pamphlet for youth, which I grew up with, provided strict guidelines on sexuality. The new version shifts toward emphasizing personal responsibility and principles-based guidance.
2001 For the Strength of Youth pp. 26-28 For the Strength of Youth (2022): While this updated version is an improvement, it still has room for growth in its approach to sexuality. You can find additional information in the "Your Body is Sacred" section here.
2022 For the Strength of Youth pp. 23, 25 What the Church Means to Me by Richard D. Poll (1967): The essay Jake mentioned that discusses the iron rod vs. liahona framework, helping us understand the different approaches to structured and exploratory faith.
Liahona: In the Book of Mormon, the Liahona is a compass-like object given by God to the prophet Lehi and his family. It functions based on the faith and diligence of its users, directing them towards the path they should follow on their journey. The Liahona symbolizes a more exploratory faith that uses divine direction and guidance, as well as the importance of faith and obedience in receiving that guidance. (See 1 Nephi 16:10, 28-29)
Iron Rod: The Iron Rod is a symbol used in Lehi's vision of the Tree of Life in the Book of Mormon. In this vision, the Tree of Life represents the love of God and the path leading to it is a strait and narrow path with an iron rod running alongside it. The Iron Rod symbolizes a more structured faith that emphasizes obedience in receiving divine guidance. (See 1 Nephi 8:19-24, 30; 11:25)
Sexuality and Singledom: This article by Jennifer Finlayson-Fife explores the challenges faced by single Mormons regarding sexuality and personal fulfillment.
I’m thrilled to share this conversation with you, and I hope it inspires you to embrace every facet of your being—sexual, spiritual, and everything in between. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to know how you reconcile these aspects in your own life!
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