What Is SSA Mormon

Understanding SSA in Mormonism

Definition and terminology

• SSA (Same-Sex Attraction): A term used by the LDS Church to describe emotional, physical, romantic, or sexual attraction to a person of the same gender
• The Church prefers SSA over terms like homosexual, lesbian, gay, or bisexual when discussing Mormon homosexuality
• SSA is considered a technical term describing the experience of same-sex attraction in LDS contexts without imposing a label

Church stance on SSA Mormon individuals

• The LDS Church teaches that having SSA is not a sin, but acting on those feelings is considered a violation of the law of chastity for SSA Mormons
• The Church encourages individuals experiencing same-sex attraction LDS to live in harmony with gospel principles and maintain their covenants
• The Church does not take a position on the causes of SSA in Mormon homosexuality, considering it a scientific question rather than a religious one

Support for SSA Mormons

Church-sponsored resources

• The LDS Church launched mormonsandgays.org (now part of the main Church website) to provide support for SSA Mormons and clarify its position on same-sex attraction LDS
• The Church's Counseling Resource on Same-Sex Attraction encourages developing healthy, nonsexual relationships for those experiencing Mormon homosexuality
• The Church promotes understanding, kindness, and respect for individuals experiencing SSA Mormon challenges

Independent support organizations

• North Star Saints: A faith-affirming resource offering online communities for Latter-day Saints navigating same-sex attraction LDS
• Beacon: Ministry for Same: Provides a confidential, Rexburg-based support group for SSA Mormon members in southeastern Idaho
• Family Fellowship: An organization supporting families with SSA Mormon members, addressing Mormon homosexuality

Prevalence of SSA in Mormon communities

• A 2020 survey at Brigham Young University found that 13% of students marked their sexual orientation as something other than strictly heterosexual, indicating the presence of SSA Mormons
• Earlier estimates from BYU counselors in 1979 suggested around 4% of BYU students were attracted to the same sex, highlighting the ongoing issue of same-sex attraction LDS
• A 1972 study found that between 10 and 13 percent of college-aged Mormon men reported past same-sex sexual behavior, providing insight into Mormon homosexuality

Challenges and considerations

• Many SSA Mormons struggle with faith crises, confusion, and doubts about the gospel, especially when same-sex attraction LDS persists after missions or marriages
• The Church emphasizes that serving a mission or getting married won't make SSA go away for those experiencing Mormon homosexuality
• Some estimates suggest that only 10 percent of SSA Mormons remain active in the church, though this figure is disputed

FAQ

What is SSA Mormon?

SSA Mormon refers to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who experience Same-Sex Attraction (SSA). This term is used by the Mormon church to describe individuals who are attracted to the same gender while adhering to LDS beliefs and practices.

How does the LDS Church view same-sex attraction?

The LDS Church teaches that having same-sex attraction is not a sin, but acting on those feelings is considered a violation of the law of chastity. The Church encourages individuals experiencing same-sex attraction to live in harmony with gospel principles and maintain their covenants.

What resources are available for SSA Mormons?

The LDS Church provides resources such as the Counseling Resource on Same-Sex Attraction and formerly operated mormonsandgays.org. Independent organizations like North Star Saints and Beacon: Ministry for Same also offer support for SSA Mormons.

How prevalent is Mormon homosexuality?

Recent surveys suggest that about 13% of students at Brigham Young University identify as something other than strictly heterosexual. Earlier studies have found varying percentages, ranging from 4% to 13% of Mormon individuals experiencing same-sex attraction or engaging in same-sex behavior.

What challenges do SSA Mormons face?

Many SSA Mormons struggle with faith crises, confusion, and doubts about the gospel, especially when same-sex attraction persists after missions or marriages. The Church acknowledges that serving a mission or getting married won't make SSA go away, and some estimates suggest that only a small percentage of SSA Mormons remain active in the church.