Unseen: Intersecting Faith & Sexuality in the Bible Belt

Growing up gay in the Bible Belt is hard- especially when feelings are so suppressed by fear and adherence to normal. It took years for Meredith to recognize her identity and realize that her heart’s desires were not wretched. Like many children raised in fundamentalist communities, Meredith heard gay-bashing from the pulpit, underlined scathing Bible passages in red ink, and quelled any same-sex attraction as something unholy. Unseen is just one account, one story, one voice, amongst thousands of others who may feel silenced by a faith community unwilling to acknowledge this love as valid and pure. Throughout the book, Meredith attempts to unravel the many mysteries of her faith, navigate the hurtful backlash of rejection, and rest in the perfect peace of God’s unconditional love. Though Unseen follows a brutal process, coming out in the South and living authentically is a necessary step in advocating for Christ’s radical embrace. And so, let us hold fast, believe in God, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen- lest we be flung further away from a life lived in true abundance. These pages are for those feeling lost in the Bible Belt, for those who want to herald Christianity and still be authentic, and for parents who are searching for answers.