Is it a sin to feel same-sex attraction or identify as gay?

President M. Russell Ballard stated: “Let us be clear: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes that ‘the experience of same-sex attraction is a complex reality for many people. The attraction itself is not a sin, but acting on it is. Even though individuals do not choose to have such attractions, they do choose how to respond to them. With love and understanding, the Church reaches out to all God’s children, including [individuals with same-sex attraction]’” (“The Lord Needs You Now!,” Ensign or Liahona, Sept. 2015, 15).

The law of chastity applies to all of God’s children equally. Do your best to keep it—and if you falter, repent, seek forgiveness, and draw upon the power of Jesus Christ to strengthen you. Experiencing SSA isn’t a punishment from God. Again, as with any part of your mortal life, this experience can be a blessing and will teach you beautiful truths if you seek to understand and ask God for help.