Anyway, thanks very much for sharing your story. As the child of conservative religious parents, I identify strongly with the emotions you describe. What awes me about your story is that you have had the courage to stand up and be who you are at a much younger age that I (or most people of my generation) did. I did not come out until my mid-20’s, when I was no longer dependent upon my parents. Consequently, though I had to face their disapproval, I did not have to undergo the sorts of punishments you’ve faced.

Your experience with the church camp sounds horrendous. How sad that you and your girlfriend should have to undergo such shaming and censure. Bless you for standing strong in the face of it. Please know that there IS love and support available out here, and many, many people are cheering you on in your journey. And if you are looking for a church camp which will accept you for who you are, and value your experiences, consider applying to Pilgrim Pines — the church camp used by many Covenant groups. As an interdenominational facility, also used by the United Church of Christ, it has an official policy of being “Open and Affirming.” I don’t know what its status is for summer jobs this year, but it might be a great place to use your skills and talents.

Bless you! My prayers and thoughts are with you!