A conference focused on helping Mormons who struggle with same-sex attraction will take place at the Utah Valley Convention Center in Provo, UT on May 29-31. North Star International, a non-profit organization, is hosting the conference and hoping to help individuals who experience same-sex attraction to feel “at home in the gospel of Christ” as they can learn how to live in harmony with the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The 2014 North Star Conference is aligned with the organization’s mission statement to
“serve those who desire the spiritual and social support that strengthens faith, builds character, and empowers men and women to live in joy and harmony within their covenants, values, and beliefs as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.”
The four main purposes North Star established for their 2014 conference are to (1) create a safe place, (2) promote love, (3) learn tools, and (4) empower individuals.
1. Create a Safe Place:
North Star strives to create a safe and respectful environment so that all in attendance will feel welcome to share their personal experiences and viewpoints on same-sex attraction, as it relates to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
2. Promote Love:
North Star seeks to promote Christ-like love through both listening and sharing with each other.
3. Learn Tools:
North Star teaches spiritual and practical tools to help individuals live a gospel-centered life.
4. Empower Individuals.
“Empower individuals to participate in furthering the Lord’s work. We affirm that Jesus Christ alone has the power to heal, strengthen, and enable one’s self to find eternal peace through living His gospel.”
The three-day conference will host over 40 sessions featuring leaders, scholars, therapists, and entertainers from the Mormon community. Robert L. Millet, Camille Fronk Olson, and Wendy Ulrich, are just a few of the presenters scheduled to speak. The conference is set up to have various general sessions as well as a number of break-out sessions. Registered participants can choose between different tracks relating to their demographic group for the break-out sessions. Break-out sessions include tracks for:
- Men
- Women
- Transgendered
- Spouses
- Parents, Friends, and Family
- Ecclesiastical Leaders
In addition to the scheduled sessions, North Star is also hosting an opening picnic kick-off on Thursday evening. The following night will feature a concert by the musical group Eclipse, which will be open to the general public (with purchase of a ticket). You can register for the 2014 North Star Conference now, and choose from various registration options.
Learn more about North Star International and the Church’s official views on same-sex attraction.
