71. Reclaiming Testify to Love (Michael Passons' Story)

Michael Passons spent years as a member of Avalon, one of the most successful groups in Christian music. In this episode, he shares his journey from breaking into the industry and rising to fame, to navigating life as a gay man in a world that taught him his sexuality needed to be changed. Michael opens up about undergoing conversion therapy, the impact it had on his mental health, and the pressure of trying to reconcile his faith with his identity.We also talk about what happened when Michael was ultimately removed from Avalon, the grief of losing a career and community he loved, and the healing that followed. In the last few weeks, Michael rereleased Testify to Love with his close friends, reclaiming the song with an affirming message of inclusion and belonging. The project has been deeply healing for many LGBTQ+ people who grew up in Christian spaces believing they had to change themselves to be loved by God. -Michael Passons’ Website: https://michaelpassons.com/Michael Passons’ IG :https://www.instagram.com/michaelpassons/?hl=enMichael Passons’ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelpassonsmusic-Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/Healedish⁠Follow for more:  Jubilee’s TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@jubileedawns⁠ Jubilee’s IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jubileedawns⁠ Healed-ish TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@healedishpodcast⁠ Healed-ish IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/healedishpodcast⁠ Apply To Share Your Story: ⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/23f8SPBX1VntsqUU8⁠https://www.patreon.com/TheOvershareHour