James Powell

This Little Light of Mine - LGBTQ, Christianity, religious trauma, mental health

James Powell

  • God hates figs?

God hates figs?

Wednesday 26th August 2020

James Powell shares his experiences growing up as a closeted Gay Christian in a fundamentalist church and the toxic messages he was taught.
28 minutes
Thought-provoking
Raw
Informative
Empowering
Compassionate

About this podcast

This Little Light of Mine - LGBTQ, Christianity, religious trauma, mental health
Author:
James Powell
Overview:
Categories:
Healing from Sexual Trauma
Religion & Spirituality
Healing Relationships
Spiritual & Personal Growth Journeys
Recovery from Trauma
Links:
Visit site
Episodes:
51 (View all)
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God Hates Figs? - James Powell's Fight Against Religious Oppression

Homosexuality is preventable and treatable. The homosexual agenda is looking to destroy the church. These were the people that told me they loved me. These were the Christians that told me I was saved because I had accepted Jesus Christ into my heart, and yet they were talking about me as if I was subhuman.
Imagine being told that who you are is fundamentally wrong. In this episode of 'This Little Light of Mine', James Powell takes listeners on a poignant trip down memory lane, recounting the harsh and damaging messages he received about homosexuality while growing up in a fundamentalist church. These weren't just idle comments; they were fear-mongering sermons from the pulpit, venomous Christian radio talk shows, and whispered judgments among adults.
Powell's journey reveals the deep scars left by these experiences, including the now-debunked conversion therapy promoted by Exodus International, which used pseudoscience under the guise of religion to harm countless individuals. But this episode isn't just for those who identify as LGBTQ+. Powell extends his reflections to anyone who has been marginalized for their race, gender, body shape, or abilities.
He delves into the pain of internalizing these toxic messages and the lifelong struggle of hiding one's true self to maintain peace or relationships that no longer serve us. Throughout his story, Powell emphasizes the connection between these hurtful teachings and issues like brokenness, sexual shame, and addiction. With raw honesty and compassion, Powell shares how he's learning to honor his own needs and truths as he continues on his healing path.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone grappling with religious trauma or seeking to understand the profound impact of oppressive teachings. It's a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of reclaiming one's identity.