Mormon Family Leaves Church After 40 Years of Faith – Kevin and Jennifer Lundquist | Ep. 2001

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Kevin and Jennifer open up about their lifelong journey within the Mormon faith, their eventual faith transition, and the profound ways in which it shaped their understanding of love, family, and authenticity.

Raised in devout Mormon homes, both Kevin and Jennifer embraced their faith, serving missions, marrying in the temple, and striving to live according to church teachings. However, cracks began to form when their experiences no longer aligned with the church’s expectations. Their journey took a pivotal turn when their son came out as gay and later faced emotional turmoil on his mission due to the pressures placed upon him. Confronted with the church’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues, they found themselves questioning long-held beliefs and reassessing their role in the faith.

As they navigated their evolving perspectives, they experienced firsthand the difficult balance between loyalty to the Mormon church and unconditional love for their children. Their faith transition was met with grief, uncertainty, and moments of deep reflection, yet it also led to newfound clarity and purpose. Through reading, research, and open conversations, they ultimately made the difficult decision to leave the Mormon church in pursuit of a more inclusive and accepting life.

Their journey didn’t end with their exit from organized religion—it expanded into a broader exploration of what love and family truly mean. Supporting both their gay son and their transgender daughter, they embraced a path of unwavering acceptance, proving that true faith lies in love, empathy, and standing by one’s values, even in the face of societal or religious opposition.

Kevin and Jennifer’s story is one of resilience, courage, and transformation. From their time in the Mormon church to their eventual departure, they share the highs and lows of their experience, offering an inspiring message to those who may be questioning their own faith or seeking guidance in navigating similar challenges.

Join us for this heartfelt conversation as Kevin and Jennifer discuss their faith, their family, and the lessons they’ve learned about embracing authenticity. Whether you’re on a similar journey or simply looking for a moving story about love and self-discovery, this episode is a must-listen.

A supporter is worth a thousand followers

Your generous donations ensure we can continue to provide support for those transitioning. Help us keep these essential discussions alive and accessible to all by making a donation today.

similar episodes

2 Responses

  1. Hello John,

    Could you please pass to Kevin Lundquist?

    Hi Kevin,
    I just listened to your Mormon Stories podcast. You mentioned that your Mission President in South Africa was Reed Snow. During my high school years in the late 1960s I had a great bishop in the Sacramento area (Fair Oaks, Carmichael) named Reed Snow. He was Stake President after I returned from my mission to France. I loved him. He could always beat me at H-O-R-S-E. Great shot on the basketball court. Good counseling and a great connection with the youth. It sounds like this could be the same person. Your description of him fits completely. Just checking to see of it is a match, I lost contact when I left California, so I was not aware of his later service. If I had been inclined to stay in the church, men and women like him would have been somewhat (but not definitively) influential.

    If you would like to respond, my email is mgwatson@live.com
    Respectfully,
    Michael Watson

  2. This is one of the best interviews you’ve done in a long time. Personally, these are the stories I enjoy most. More of this type of content please and less of the 6 hour talking in circles content about the Daybells, Vallows, and Franke’s.

    Best wishes to Kevin, Jennifer and their three children.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *