The Bridge Between Us: A Guide For Christian Parents Navigating the LGBTQ Conversation

If January was about stabilizing the heart, February invites us to reimagine love — not as fixing or chasing, but as something steady, humble, and true. In this episode, we talk about what it means to love well when relationships are strained, distant, or uncertain. Together, we'll explore: Why love is not the same as control or agreement How to love without losing yourself What it looks like to respond instead of react How to anchor your heart in truth — even when outcomes are unclear You'll also find space to reflect on questions like: Where have I confused love with fixing? How has my definition of love changed? What does loving well look like from where I stand now? This is for the parent who's still showing up in faith — even when there's silence. Even when there's grief. Even when there's no clear path forward. Listen and share if you need the reminder: You can still love well. Even here. Even now. If this episode resonated with you, would you consider: Sharing it with someone who needs the same reminder Leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Following The Bridge Between Us so you never miss an episode Your support helps more parents find their way back to hope.   Subscribe to the Bridge Between Us Newletter for updates, equipping and encouragement:  https://mailchi.mp/1e8513b0df62/the-daring-rescue

Some parenting stories don't resolve neatly. Relationships remain strained. Questions remain unanswered. And the waiting can feel exhausting. In Episode 5 of the Still Faithful series, we talk about what faithfulness looks like when nothing is resolved — when there is no closure, no clear outcome, and no timeline for change. This episode invites parents to consider how to live fully, love well, and stay faithful even when the story is still unfinished. In this episode, we talk about: The emotional weight of unresolved parenting seasons Why faithfulness is not waiting for resolution before living How to hold hope without demanding outcomes Allowing joy and grief to exist together Moving forward while trusting God with what remains unanswered Reflection questions: Where am I waiting for resolution before allowing myself to live fully? What might it look like to move forward faithfully, even while something remains unfinished? How can I hold hope without attaching it to a specific outcome? A closing encouragement: Faithfulness does not require closure. It requires presence.   If you would like more information on the coaching Melinda offers, send an email to: melinda@melindapatrickorg  

Trusting God can feel especially fragile in painful parenting seasons. For many parents, faith doesn't feel confident or clear — it feels cautious, tender, and uncertain. In Episode 4 of the Still Faithful series, we talk honestly about what it means to stay rooted in Christ when trust feels shaky. This episode offers reassurance that fragile trust is still real trust — and that staying connected to God does not require certainty, clarity, or emotional confidence. This conversation is for parents who are still showing up, still listening, still praying — even when faith feels quiet or hesitant. In this episode, we talk about: Why trust can feel fragile after prolonged pain or unanswered prayers The difference between being rooted and being certain How faith often deepens underground, unseen What staying rooted can look like in everyday life Why small acts of faithfulness matter deeply A gentle reflection: Where does trust feel tender for me right now? What helps me stay connected to God, even when I feel unsure? What would it look like to trust God with just today — not everything at once? A reminder for this week: You don't have to trust God with the whole story. You can trust Him with the next step. God has entrusted this journey and your child to you. As you remain connected to Him — even quietly — He will equip you for each next step.   If you would like more information on coaching, send Melinda an email:  melinda@melindapatrick.org

In hard parenting seasons, recognizing God's presence can feel complicated. Not because God is absent — but because His faithfulness often shows up quietly. In Episode 3 of the Still Faithful series, we explore what it means to notice God's hand without forcing gratitude, positivity, or resolution. This episode is an invitation to spiritual awareness rooted in honesty, not pressure. If you've ever wondered whether you're "missing" God in a painful season — or felt unsure how to talk about His presence when nothing feels resolved — this episode offers a gentle place to pause and reflect. This conversation isn't about finding silver linings. It's about making room to notice what's been steady, subtle, and sustaining.   In this episode, we talk about: Why God's faithfulness often feels quiet in hard years The difference between spiritual awareness and forced positivity How God's presence may show up through people, restraint, or truth rather than outcomes Why "I don't know yet" can still be a faithful answer How to remain open to God without demanding clarity   Reflection questions: Take your time with these — there's no rush. Where do I recognize God's hand, even faintly, in this past season? Who did God place in my life to steady me when I felt unsure? What truth did God gently remind me of when everything felt uncertain? And remember: If the answer feels like "I don't know yet," that's okay. God meets us there too.   A gentle reminder: God's faithfulness doesn't disappear in hard years. Sometimes it just shows up quietly. Faith doesn't require forced meaning or immediate clarity — only continued presence.   About the series: Still Faithful Still Faithful is a podcast series for Christian parents navigating painful, unresolved parenting journeys — including estrangement, distance, and seasons where a child's choices challenge deeply held beliefs. This series is designed to help you: Release shame Name pain honestly Recognize God's presence without pressure Stay rooted when trust feels fragile Move forward faithfully, one step at a time God has entrusted this journey and your child to you. As you engage with Him — even quietly, even uncertainly — He will equip you for each next step.

If you've ever whispered, "God, what do I do with this grief I can't even name?" — this episode is for you. So many parents are trying to stay faithful… while quietly carrying spiritual pain no one else sees. Grief that doesn't have a name. Disappointment that feels "un-Christian" to admit. Anguish that lingers, even when you're doing all the "right" things. In this episode, we talk honestly about the kind of pain that doesn't fit into neat categories — and the courage it takes to stay when your heart feels like it's breaking. What we cover: Why unspoken pain doesn't disappear — it just goes underground The difference between doubt and honest faith How lament can actually be one of the most faithful things you do Naming grief when your child is still alive What to pray when you're too tired for long prayers Why your sorrow does not disqualify your faithfulness Take this with you: You are not just a parent in pain. You are a parent in position. And God is still working in the dark. Mentioned in this episode: Last week's episode on releasing shame (Ep 1: "It Wasn't Your Fault") Scripture-based reflections on grief and lament A simple practice of honest prayer you can begin this week Resources for you: Morning Worship Text Series (Free) This is something I personally use to start many of my weekdays. It's short, simple, and it grounds my heart before I ask for anything. The time of worship includes a song and Scripture read aloud. You'll get a morning text with a link to worship — you can listen whenever it fits your rhythm. Here's the link: https://sing.theworshipinitiative.com Devotional Recommendation:  The Hidden Face of God: Finding the Missing Door to the Father Through Lament by Michael Card This book will meet you in the deeper place. If you're craving more intimacy with the Father — especially when He feels quiet — this is for you.  {This is an affiliate link - it doesn't change anything for you on your end but helps support my ministry if you decide to purchase through this link} Let's stay connected: If today's episode spoke to you, would you take a moment to share it with someone who's navigating a similar journey? You're not alone — and neither are they. 💌 Subscribe, review, or send me a message with what stood out. I'd love to hear from you. You can connect with Melinda: melinda@melindapatrick.org

As we begin a new year, many parents are carrying more than they expected — unresolved relationships, unanswered prayers, and the quiet weight of loving a child through pain, distance, or deep disagreement. In this first episode of the Still Faithful series, we slow down together and begin with something essential: releasing shame. This episode is for parents who are questioning themselves, their faith, or what faithfulness looks like after a hard year. It's a grounding invitation to look back honestly — without self-blame — and to begin moving forward with steadiness, clarity, and grace. This is not about fixing your child or forcing outcomes. It's about strengthening you. In this episode, we talk about: The difference between faithfulness and outcomes How to look back at the past year without self-condemnation What you may be carrying that was never meant to be yours Why faithfulness can coexist with heartbreak How to begin a new year grounded rather than striving Reflection questions to sit with: Where have I been harder on myself than God has been? What did faithfulness look like for me this past year — even if it felt quiet or unseen? What responsibility or guilt do I need to release as I move forward? A gentle reminder: You can be deeply faithful and deeply heartbroken at the same time. Faithfulness does not require resolution — only presence. As we move through this series, we'll continue to explore how to stay spiritually anchored, emotionally steady, and rooted in love — even when the story isn't finished.   About the Series: Still Faithful Still Faithful is a season created for Christian parents navigating painful, unresolved parenting journeys — including estrangement, distance, and moments when a child's choices challenge deeply held beliefs. This series is designed to help you: Stay grounded when parenting hurts Discern next faithful steps without pressure Love well without losing yourself Trust God even when outcomes are uncertain  

As this year comes to a close, I want to take a moment with you — not to fix anything, not to sum it all up, but simply to pause. Reflect on these questions:  What did this year ask of you that you didn't expect? What did you continue to do this year, even when it hurt?   As this year closes, there may be things you're still carrying that were never meant to come with you into the next one. For just a moment, imagine setting those things down — not forever, but for now. They do not need to define the threshold you're crossing.   When we return in the new year, we'll be entering a slower, more intentional season together — one focused on helping you stay grounded and faithful when parenting hurts. If you need a place to land as the new year begins, I'll be here. For now, take care of yourself. Rest where you can. Celebrate where you can. And know that you are not alone.  

The holidays can feel especially heavy when your child is walking a path that doesn't reflect the way you raised them — spiritually, morally, or emotionally. If you've ever felt that quiet ache, this episode is meant to bring comfort, clarity, and hope. In today's conversation, we explore gentle, grace-filled ways to reconnect with your child during the holiday season without pressure, panic, or preaching. You'll hear why your presence matters more than "getting the words right," how to ask open, life-giving questions, and why small moments of warmth can rebuild trust over time. This is an episode for Christian parents who love deeply, hurt quietly, and want to keep the door open — even when the relationship feels complicated. What We Cover in This Episode: ❤️ Naming the Heartache Why the holidays magnify the distance, the grief, and the unspoken worries many parents carry. 🧠 Understanding Your Child's Internal World They may be navigating more fear, shame, or uncertainty than you think — even if they don't show it. 🌿 Five Gentle Ways to Reconnect This Season Leading with presence over correction Asking questions without hidden agendas Sharing warm memories instead of disappointment Releasing the pressure for holiday moments to "go somewhere" Praying quietly, loving loudly   Simple interactions become the first seeds of reconnection. A Gentle Reminder: You're not failing. You're navigating something complicated with love and courage. And God still moves in the places you can't reach. For Parents Who Need This Today: Save this episode for the tender moments… and feel free to share it with someone who is walking the same road.   Do you want to know more about the January 2026 FAST or make sure you do't miss out on any new opportunities? Subscribe here to receive emails to get the latest news.    Related episodes of The Bridge Between Us to help with the holidays: https://melindapatrick.org/2024/12/23/gretchen-stockman-help-for-the-parent-who-has-been-estranged-from-their-child-eps-78/   https://melindapatrick.org/2023/12/17/when-christmas-is-difficult-dont-let-the-enemy-rob-you-of-the-real-meaning-of-the-season-eps-47/   https://melindapatrick.org/2023/11/29/moving-from-fear-to-faith-and-taking-steps-to-have-a-trauma-less-christmas-with-jenn-hand-eps-44/   https://melindapatrick.org/2023/11/15/ways-to-thrive-this-holiday-season-when-skipping-isnt-an-option-eps-42/

Thanksgiving can be a beautiful day — but for many Christian parents of LGBTQ-identified children, it can also be complicated, emotional, or even painful. In this short, heartfelt Thanksgiving episode, Melinda offers encouragement, grounding truth, and three practical ways to prepare your heart before you prepare your home. If you're carrying tension, uncertainty, or grief into the holiday, this episode will help you slow down, breathe, and remember that God meets you right where you are. Three Practical Tips for Parents This Thanksgiving These simple but powerful steps can help bring calm, clarity, and connection to your holiday: • Set Realistic Expectations Your child may not respond the way you hope. The conversation may feel awkward. The day may not look like past Thanksgivings. Give yourself — and them — permission to be human. Release the pressure and embrace the day as it is, not as you wish it were. • Find the Common Denominator Regardless of disagreements or differences, there is something true and good you both value. Maybe it's laughter. Maybe it's family stories, food, football, games, or serving others. Look for common ground as a way to build connection, not conflict. • Go In with a Posture of Humility Before you set the table, set your heart. Before you open the door to your child, open your heart to Jesus. Let Him shape your tone, soften your responses, and steady your emotions. Humility doesn't mean compromise — it means choosing love over winning, and presence over pressure. Mentioned Episodes for Further Support If today feels heavy or confusing, these conversations will equip and encourage you: Two Sides One Family How To Talk About LGBTQ Issues When An Older Sibling Identifies as LGBTQ Responding To Family Conflict Finding Joy When Your Kids Walk Away Help For Estranged Parents How To Support Your LGBTQ-identified Child Without Endorsing The Identity They Embrace Loving Your LGBTQ-identified Child with Grace & Truth The Loudest Roar   These episodes offer practical language and faith-filled guidance for moments just like this. If This Episode Blessed You… Share it with a fellow parent who may be feeling alone this holiday. And be sure to rate the show — it helps other hurting parents find encouragement and hope.  

Connect with Ken Williams: www.changedmovement.com

How do you talk to your younger kids about LGBTQ topics when an older sibling identifies as LGBTQ? That's one of the most common—and difficult—questions parents and grandparents ask. Today on The Bridge Between Us Podcast, Melinda Patrick is joined by Elizabeth Urbanowicz, author, teacher, and host of the Foundational Worldview podcast, to discuss how to approach these conversations biblically, truthfully, and compassionately. Together, Melinda and Elizabeth tackle three key questions: 1️⃣ How can we protect (and prepare) our younger children when an older sibling embraces an LGBTQ identity? 2️⃣ What's the best way to discuss LGBTQ topics in a way that's both biblical and filled with grace? 3️⃣ How do we teach our children to love others well—without affirming what Scripture calls sin? In this episode, you'll discover: Why "protecting" your children isn't the goal—and what to do instead Three practical steps to prepare your younger children when a sibling or family member identifies as LGBTQ How to overcome the fear of saying or doing the wrong thing Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or family member seeking wisdom and peace in a divided culture, this conversation will help you walk in truth and love—right where God has placed you.   *Please share this episode with pastors and ministry leaders - they are always in search of biblically aligned resources to help those they are shepherding *There is another family out there searching for hope and help - be a resource and share this episode with them.    Connect with Elizabeth Urbanowicz: Foundation Worldview   Books mentioned:  Helping Your Kids Know God's Good Design by Elizabeth Urbanowicz

Laura Smalts and Melinda Patrick are continuing their conversation today on The Bridge Between Us Podcast.   In this episode, Laura shares how the Lord met her on her healing journey and the steps she took that led to her freedom and new found joy.  Listen in and discover:  *the one thing Laura did that has given her unspeakable joy *how a parent's healing journey is similar to that of their LGBTQ-identified child's *way God redeems and goes over and above   BONUS EPISODE: Listen to the bonus episode with Laura HERE.    Connect:  Connect with Laura Smalts:  Eden's Redemption Connect with Melinda Patrick: melinda@melindapatrick.org   Books mentioned: The Prodigal Prayer Guide by Laura Perry Smalts Transgender to Transformed by Laura Perry Smalts The Daring Rescue by Melinda Patrick    

In this heartfelt episode, Laura Smalts opens up about her journey of transitioning to male and later detransitioning back to the woman God created her to be. Listen in and hear: *What Laura's parents did that left a lasting impact *the powerful transformation she witnessed in her mom *the question that left me speechless and soul-searching You'll also hear two of the most important prayers we can pray as parents walking through difficult seasons with our children. It's a story of truth, grace, and the redeeming love of Christ.   Connect with Laura Smalts:  Eden's Redemption   Books mentioned: Prodigal Prayer Guide Transgendered to Transformed Humility Absolute Surrender

Have you ever felt powerless — like you've prayed all the prayers, said all the words, and nothing seems to change? When your child embraces an LGBTQ identity, it's easy to feel like your hands are tied and your hope is fading. But here's the truth: you are not powerless. In this episode of The Bridge Between Us, host Melinda Patrick reminds Christian parents, pastors, and counselors that while you may not be able to change your child's choices, you can partner with God in powerful, peace-filled ways. Through six simple but life-giving actions — Pray, Nurture, Love, Trust, Remember, and Live — you'll discover how to stay anchored in faith, love your child well, and reflect Christ in the middle of your ache. Melinda shares biblical encouragement, practical wisdom, and a faith-in-action challenge to help you shift your focus from what you can't do… to what you can do. Because you're not powerless — you're a parent partnering with the God of the impossible. Key Takeaways: Prayer isn't passive — it's powerful. Invite God to teach you how to love your child His way. Nurture the relationship even when you don't agree; soft soil grows seeds of truth. Love doesn't mean compromise — it reflects God's character and kindness. Trust God's heart, even when you can't trace His plan. Remember His past faithfulness; write your story as a testimony. Live with hope and joy — your faith in motion is a living witness. Faith in Action Challenge: *Read Psalm 18. Make note of who God is. *Take time to write your testimony — where God met you and how He's been faithful. Ask Him to show you one way to live from that place of hope. You are not powerless. You are standing in the gap — and heaven sees you.   Scriptures mentioned:  Judges 13 Psalm 18 Connect with Melinda Patrick: melinda@melindapatrick.org

When homosexuality enters a marriage, it can feel like the ground has been ripped out from beneath you. Confusion, pain, and even questions about your own worth can overwhelm your heart. You're not alone—and there is a way forward. In this episode of The Bridge Between Us, host Melinda Patrick welcomes back Joe Dallas along with his wife Renee Dallas to speak directly to spouses, strugglers, parents, and ministry leaders who long to understand the impact of homosexuality in marriage. Drawing from years of experience, Renee shares the AFTER acrostic—five practical steps that guide spouses toward healing—and explains the three types of wounds that can deeply affect a marriage in these moments. Together, Joe and Renee point to the root issues beneath homosexuality and reveal the two essential steps every person must take if they want to experience restoration and hope. You'll walk away with: Clarity on the three types of wounds that surface when homosexuality impacts a marriage Insight into the root issues of homosexuality The two major steps toward healing that every person needs A renewed belief that if there is good faith on both sides, there is hope for restoration This conversation is not just information—it's a lifeline of truth, compassion, and hope for every person navigating the heartbreak of homosexuality within marriage.   Prior episodes that relate to this episode: Longing for Intimacy, Walking in Freedom Eps 99 with Amy Riordan Christians In a Cancel Culture Eps 17 with Joe Dallas    Connect with Joe Dallas:  Joedallas.com Find out more about The Challenge for Pastors   Connect with Renee Dallas:  WifeBoat   Books mentioned: Order The Daring Rescue here.   Stay up to date by signing up here to receive the Bridge Newsletter.   To share your thoughts: Leave a note in the comment section below or send me an email to: melinda@melindapatrick.org Leave an honest review on ITunes or your favorite podcast app. Your ratings and reviews help get this message of hope into the hands of hurting families and I read each one. 😊 Make sure to 'Follow' the Bridge Between Us Podcast on Itunes so you don't miss an episode. Subscribe to our newsletter now.

Are you feeling like life has collapsed around you—wondering if joy, peace, or even a sense of normal will ever return? You're not alone. In this episode of The Bridge Between Us, host Melinda Patrick welcomes back Jenn Hand, author of Hope Beneath the Rubble. Together, they talk about how to move toward hope and healing when it feels like everything in your world is falling apart. Using her powerful acrostic, RUBBLE, Jenn shares how to find steady ground and begin rebuilding your heart in the midst of trauma and loss. 💡 What you'll discover in this episode: The warning signs of trauma you may not recognize right away Simple, practical steps you can take today to move forward in hope A word of encouragement to strengthen your heart as you look ahead The reminder that you are not alone in this journey If you've been searching for hope, this conversation is your invitation to take one small, brave step today. 👉 Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode: Book: Hope Beneath the Rubble by Jenn Hand – Grab the first chapter here Book: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk Listen to Jenn's prior episode: Moving From Fear to Faith with Jenn Hand (Ep. 44) Connect with Jenn: jenniferhand.org 📬 Stay connected: Sign up for updates + encouragement: Join our newsletter Share your thoughts. Send an email: melinda@melindapatrick.org Leave a review on iTunes or your favorite podcast app – your feedback helps spread hope to families who need it most. 🎙️ Don't miss an episode! Be sure to Follow The Bridge Between Us Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.

When someone in your family embraces a new identity, the ripple effects can leave you confused, isolated, and grieving in silence. Many parents and children feel like they must carry this pain alone. In this powerful episode, Denise shares her story of discovering her father's desire to become a woman when she was just nine years old. She opens up about the secret pain she carried, the identity struggles that followed, and how God met her in her darkest places. Through Scripture, prayer, and eventually forgiveness, Denise found a way forward. Her testimony shows that even when family wounds run deep, God offers hope, healing, and freedom. Listen in, be encouraged, and discover that you don't have to carry your pain alone. God can redeem even the most broken parts of your story. You'll Walk Away With: ✅ Understanding how hidden struggles within a family can impact identity and faith. ✅ A reminder that God's Word speaks truth into the darkest places. ✅ Encouragement to face secret pain instead of hiding it. ✅ Hope that forgiveness is possible—and healing follows. Please share this episode with another hurting family, pastor, or ministry leader.  Churches are always looking for biblically sound resources they can offer.  Resources & Next Steps: Scripture that anchored Denise: Proverbs 3:5 Connect with Denise Living Stones Ministry/ Help 4 Families My Daddy's Secret by Denise Shick When Daddy Leaves To Be a Girl by Denise Shick Connect with Melinda: melinda@melindapatrick.org Grab Melinda's book: The Daring Rescue

Discovering that your child is addicted to pornography can leave you feeling shocked, betrayed, and unsure of what to do next. The swirl of emotions—anger, grief, confusion—makes it hard to know how to respond without damaging your relationship. You don't have to face this alone. In this episode of The Bridge Between Us Podcast, Melinda Patrick sits down with Barb Winter of Hopeful Mom to offer practical wisdom and biblical encouragement for parents walking through this painful reality. Together, we'll walk you through: What to do in the first moments — pause, pray, and process before responding. Understanding betrayal trauma — how your child's choices impact your emotions and relationship. Turning confrontation into conversation — how to create ongoing, open dialogue with your child. Steps toward healing — practical ways to foster connection, rebuild trust, and move forward in hope. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to move from fear and reaction into wisdom, healing, and grace. 👉 Connect with Barb Winter and Hopeful Mom here: https://hopefulmom.net/ Email: hopefulmom619@gmail.com FB: difficultconversationsforparents IG: difficult.conversations LinkedIn: barb-winters-b146882a Sexpectations at Amazon: https://amzn.to/3oCRxba 👉 Subscribe to The Bridge Between Us Podcast for more encouragement and practical tools for parents. 👉Share this episode with another friend, ministry leader, or pastor.  (Hint: pastors are always looking for biblically based resources for their congregation.)  A hopeful reminder: You can respond to your child's struggle in a way that protects your relationship, brings healing, and keeps hope alive. With God's help, you don't have to stay stuck in fear—you can walk in wisdom, love, and grace.