Flaming for Jesus
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Mission Statement
Flaming For Jesus (FFJ) is an LGBTQ+-led 501(c)(3) non-profit organization nurturing the spiritual and mental well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals affected by religious trauma and discrimination. Operating from a non-denominational, non-religious standpoint, its core program, the Rise Above Community (RAC), creates safe and affirming spaces where individuals can navigate their experiences, reclaim their sense of self, and embark on a journey toward authentic well-being.
About This Cause
Flaming for Jesus is an LGBTQ+-led nonprofit organization committed to empowering individuals who have experienced religious trauma, discrimination, or marginalization due to their identity. Established in 2023, our name reflects our mission: to ignite hope, resilience, and a sense of belonging in the hearts of those we serve. While our work addresses the effects of religious trauma, we are not affiliated with any religious organization. Instead, we focus on creating inclusive, affirming spaces where individuals can heal, grow, and build lives of authenticity and purpose. We provide FREE supportive services to LGBTQ+ individuals impacted by religious trauma and discrimination. This includes those questioning their faith, recovering from spiritual abuse, deconstructing harmful religious beliefs, and seeking a supportive community where their intersecting identities are understood and affirmed. Our work addresses the deep-seated issues related to identity, belonging, and psychological well-being that stem from these experiences. The Rise Above Community (RAC) program is the primary way FFJ delivers its services. RAC provides peer support through various platforms, including an online Discord server, regular virtual and in-person discussion groups, and curated resources. While precise annual figures fluctuate, we maintain a highly active online community with regular engagement in our virtual programs and serve individuals through weekly virtual groups and monthly in-person groups in San Antonio. Our services are centered around creating safe, affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals to connect, share experiences, and receive support from peers with shared lived experiences. Religious trauma and systemic discrimination disproportionately affect LGBTQ+ individuals, leading to significant mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and a sense of estrangement from cultural and faith communities. Additionally, a lack of affirming spaces and tools for empowerment can leave individuals feeling stuck or unsupported as they navigate their personal and professional lives.The services we provide demonstrate the urgent demand for affirming, healing-centered spaces by focusing on the following: 1. The Prevalence of Religious Trauma Among LGBTQ+ Individuals Many LGBTQ+ individuals have been rejected or harmed by faith communities that should have provided safety and acceptance. These experiences often result in deep emotional wounds, including anxiety, depression, and a loss of self-worth. Our support groups directly address this need by offering a judgment-free environment where individuals can process these experiences, share stories, and receive validation and encouragement. 2. Combatting Isolation Through Community Building Religious trauma often isolates individuals from their communities, families, and even themselves. The Rise Above Community creates a vital space for connection, helping participants rebuild a sense of belonging. The consistent engagement and growth of our network underscore the importance of this work in reducing loneliness and fostering solidarity. 3. The Need for Practical Tools for Empowerment Many individuals impacted by religious trauma face barriers to personal and professional success, often stemming from diminished confidence or internalized stigma. Our transferable skills workshops bridge this gap by equipping participants with actionable skills like communication, self-advocacy, and emotional intelligence. These tools help individuals navigate their lives with greater confidence and capability. 4. Filling the Gap in Affirming Resources While general mental health and LGBTQ+ services exist, few address the unique intersection of faith-based trauma and identity. Flaming for Jesus fills this void, providing specialized support and resources tailored to the specific needs of those recovering from spiritual and emotional harm.