Faith in Families

HAS YOUR CHILD TOLD YOU THEY’RE GAY OR TRANSGENDER? NOT SURE HOW TO HANDLE THE NEWS? WORRIED ABOUT WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR CHILD AND FAMILY? WHEN YOU FIND OUT YOUR CHILD IS LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL OR TRANSGENDER, IT CAN PUT A STRAIN ON THE ENTIRE FAMILY. YOU MIGHT EXPERIENCE A RANGE OF EMOTIONS INCLUDING CONFUSION, ANGER, SURPRISE, GRIEF, GUILT, AND DISAPPOINTMENT. YOU MAY BE FEELING CONCERNED FOR YOUR CHILD’S PRESENT OR FUTURE WELL-BEING. YOU COULD EVEN BE WONDERING WHY THIS HAPPENED AND IF YOU DID SOMETHING WRONG. YOU ARE NOT ALONE; MANY FAMILIES GO THROUGH THIS. SOME FIND THIS TIME TO BE SLIGHTLY CHALLENGING – A MERE BUMP IN THE ROAD. OTHERS, THOUGH, FIND IT THE MOST CHALLENGING THING THEY’VE HAD TO FACE AS A FAMILY.  AS DIFFICULT AS IT MAY SEEM, THERE IS A PATH TO PEACE AND RECONCILIATION.   HOW CAN LIGHTHOUSE HELP? Whether you just found out or have known for years, if your family is struggling, we want to be there for you. Lighthouse Youth and Family Services can provide support and guidance as you and your family learn to navigate this new family dynamic.  JOIN US FOR A FREE PROGRAM Faith in Families is a four hour program for parents and other adult caregivers to receive support and information when their child comes out as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. The program offers an opportunity to address worries and concerns and have questions answered by professional staff. Family members can expect a confidential and respectful experience. All families, regardless of belief or background, are welcome. The program is free and lunch is provided. Lunch includes a special presentation and panel discussion for families with religious questions facilitated by our partners at LOVEboldly.    For more information, contact FaithInFamilies@lys.org