Devon Gibby’s Journey from Mormonism to Self-Acceptance

Devon Gibby’s story is a profound testament to the challenges and triumphs of reconciling faith and sexuality. Raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gibby knew from an early age that he was gay. However, the rigid doctrines of his faith left no room for healthy exploration of his identity.

Upon returning from his Mormon mission at 21, he married a woman and started a family, adhering to the expectations set forth by his religion. It wasn’t until he was in college, studying creative writing and critical thinking, that he began to question these beliefs. This intellectual awakening led to a critical examination of his faith, ultimately revealing the deep conflicts between his true self and the church’s teachings.

The initial steps towards self-acceptance were fraught with difficulty. The first person Gibby confided in was a close friend, followed by his bishop and eventually his wife. These conversations were challenging, often met with misunderstanding and the expectation that his attraction to men was a temptation to be overcome.

Despite these hurdles, Gibby and his wife eventually decided to separate, understanding that they would be better as friends and co-parents. This decision was complicated by the significant stigma surrounding divorce in Mormon culture, but it was a necessary step for Gibby to live authentically.

Leaving the church meant coming out to everyone he knew, a process that strained relationships with family and friends. However, it also led to the formation of new, supportive communities. Gibby found solace and camaraderie among other former Mormon men who were navigating similar journeys, calling themselves the “MoHos.”

Through blogging and social media, he connected with others who understood his experience, providing a sense of belonging that had been missing. Today, Gibby strives to be a visible example of what it means to be a gay father, something he lacked growing up. His journey underscores the beauty in imperfection and the importance of authenticity, showing that true self-acceptance often requires leaving behind deeply ingrained beliefs and societal expectations.

Gibby’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience required to embrace one’s true identity and the profound transformations that come from taking that first step towards self-acceptance.