I was born and raised in here in Portland into both Evangelical and Calvinist Christianity which I know is a contradiction, but I took the best from both theologies. I gave my life to Jesus during Christian summer camp and dedicated myself to bible study and joined various Christian youth groups. In college I confessed my struggle with sexuality and was referred to an "ex-gay" ministry. The "ex-gay" experience was devastating and I began to question the faith I was raised into. I eventually accepted my gay identity, but didn't want to "throw the baby out with bath water" and leave Christianity. I attended gay-affirming churches -- first MCC and later UCC where I met my partner. I discovered podcasts and became interested in skepticism which led me to being more honest about my doubts about religion. I more recently consider myself atheist.