88: Cast Out of Christian Music for Being Gay & Reclaiming the Song That Started It All with Michael Passons, Ty Herndon & Melissa Greene

Former Avalon members Michael Passons and Melissa Greene alongside country music artist Ty Herndon share the story behind their powerful re-recording of Testify to Love and the deeply personal journey that led them back to a song that now carries an entirely new meaning. Michael opens up about being removed from Avalon because he was gay, the years of silence and healing that followed, and what it meant to finally reclaim his voice nearly two decades later alongside longtime friends Melissa and Ty.Together, they discuss the lasting impact rejection from faith communities can have on LGBTQ+ people, the trauma of feeling forced to hide who you are, and the complicated relationship many carry with faith after experiencing exclusion and shame. They also reflect on forgiveness, authenticity, personal growth, and why they believe love, faith, and belonging should never be reserved for only a select few. What began as a beloved Christian music classic has become a message of healing, inclusion, hope, and the freedom to finally live as your authentic self.Listen to Testify To Lovehttps://c44.lnk.to/TestifyToLoveTestify To Love Music Videohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9l7IPvr6b8sMichael’s Links:https://www.instagram.com/michaelpassonshttps://www.tiktok.com/@michaelpassonsmusichttps://www.youtube.com/@michaelpassonsmusicTy’s Links:https://www.instagram.com/tyherndonofficialhttps://www.youtube.com/@OfficialTyHerndonhttps://www.tyherndon.comTy’s book: What Mattered Mosthttps://www.harpercollins.com/pages/tyherndonMelissa’s Links:https://www.instagram.com/melissagreenehttps://linktr.ee/melissagreenehttps://www.melissagreene.nethttps://substack.com/@melissagreeneResources:The LGBT National Hotline888-843-4564The Trevor Projecthttps://www.thetrevorproject.orgBeyond the Monsters Socials:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal experiences and educational discussion. It is not medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own care.Topics: Religious Trauma, LGBTQ, Faith Journey, Christian Music Industry, Self AcceptanceIf you have a story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out a form here: https://form.jotform.com/243366933402153Please contact [email protected] for any business inquiries! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.