Why I Stay

Greg Johnson is the lead pastor at Memorial Presbyterian Church in St. Louis Missouri and who is, in his words, the only senior pastor in his entire denomination who is publicly celibate and same-sex attracted. For decades Greg kept his sexual orientation in the background, but a few years ago Greg felt that God was calling him to start letting other in on that part of the story and to start speaking publicly about his experience as a gay celibate man in a conservative evangelical denomination. Although the members of his church welcomed and accepted him after he started telling his story, the hate and vitriol Greg experienced from the wider denomination has been extreme.

Brian Zahnd came straight out of the Jesus Movement and was comfortable in his brand of Christianity until he wasn’t. He founded Word of Life Church in his early twenties, and went through a public transformation of faith in his 40s. In that process, he was accused of heresy and lost many members of his church, but he continues to press on.

Dr. Gregory Coles describes himself as a single, gay, Christian. He has been working to help others find acceptance and community in the Church precisely because it has been so difficult for him. His story is full of setbacks and hope and will surely bring a smile to your face.

Andy Mineo is known for being one of the top rappers for Reach Records. Being a white man inside of Black culture means he has made some mistakes and learned some lessons from which we could all benefit. Andy talks about how got in to the rap game, and the pitfalls of being a professional Christian.

Rev. Dan Stringer talks about his struggles with Evangelicalism, why he hasn't left, and what he hopes will change. Dan grew up all over the world, from Africa To North America to Asia. With his experiences and perspective you're sure to be challenged and encouraged wherever you are in your faith.

Jennifer Knapp talks about her upbringing, what Wikipedia gets wrong about her, and her time with Lilith Fair. Plus. the central role her faith plays in her life, even after so many Christians were so cruel to her.

Taylor Schumann is the author of "When Thoughts and Prayers Aren't Enough." She unexpectedly became an activist when she began to share her experience of being shot by s stranger while at work in 2013. Her faith has been challenged, but it remains intact and more relevant than ever.

Bridget Eileen Rivera is an author, speaker, and educator. And a Christian lesbian. Her journey towards activism has been long and full of judgement, but she continues to press on in faithfulness.

Chart topping hip hop artist Lecrae talks about his journey from finding Jesus, through wrestling with faith and His followers, to coming to peace.

Why I Stay shares stories of faithfulness in the face of judgement, hate, and betrayal. Weekly episodes will begin February 7, 2022.