Affirmation: Gay & Lesbian Mormons

Clay Essig

Deseret News Features Clay Essig

September 2004

Clay Essig was featured on the July 10 issue of the Deseret News in a story on homosexuality and the LDS Church. Clay, who is active in the Church, is also out as a gay man.

"Certainly there's a conflict between the church and what I am," Clay said. "There is not a conflict between what I am and God or the gospel.

"The church kept saying I was wrong, even when I was with my boyfriend, and I was incredibly happy and at peace," he said. "I said, 'I guess I'm not supposed to be happy with my life.' . . . Gradually (God) helped me understand that what I am is perfectly fine with him as long as I lead a good life. That includes having a happy family in my creation as a gay man."