Affirming

A Memoir of Faith, Sexuality, and Staying in the Church

By: Sally Gary

Narrated by: Sally Gary

What is it like to discover that something you’ve believed all your life might be wrong?

Sally Gary knew since her early adulthood that she was attracted to women. But as a devoted Christian, she felt there was no way to fully embrace this aspect of her identity while remaining faithful. Now, as she prepares to marry the love of her life, she’s ready to speak out about why - and how - her perspective changed.

In this deeply personal memoir, Sally traces the experiences, conversations, and scriptural reading that culminated in her seeing her sexuality as something that made sense within the context of her faith - not outside of it or in opposition to it. Along the way, she addresses specific aspects of her journey that will resonate with many other gay Christians: the loneliness and isolation of her previously celibate life, the futile attempts she made to resist or even “change” her sexual orientation, and the fear of intimacy that followed a lifetime of believing same-sex relationships were sinful.

Sally’s story - one of heritage, learning, courage, and love - is written especially for the generations of LGBTQ Christians after her who are questioning whether they can stay part of the church they call home. It’s a resounding reminder that, just like Sally’s own heart, things can change, and sometimes, when we earnestly search for the truth, we find it in the most unexpected places.

©2021 Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. (P)2021 Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.

Such an encouraging perspective

No bashing in this book of anyone on any side of the Lgbtq-people-in-church perspective. Just a very positive and heartfelt description of the author’s journey. Highly recommend it.

must read or listen

Encouraging, faithful, hopeful. A required read for the church to remind us that hospitality is a core principle of our life as Christ followers.

A must listen for Christians of every affiliation!

Thank you to Sally Gary for a courageous memoir of struggle and growth. May these stories reach the hearts of all who hear them.

Just what I needed!

I found this book by accident, and it was everything I didn’t know I needed. I related to the things discussed so much. It’s comforting to know I am not alone. I highly recommend this book!

Incredible Story

Affirming is an incredible story of one woman’s journey, and the story is continuing to be told.

I’m certain that while this book is about one person’s story it’s a many people can relate to.

It’s a joy to hear Sally Gary tell the story in her own voice.

May her story give voice to many other people and provide a way for them to tell their stories.