They don't have to understand, you are standing up for human rights, and that's one of the greatest things you can do with your life. Just mention it like you mention what else you're doing in life, not giving them a chance to make something big about it, and if they do, explain why you do what you do, There's not much more to it.

They probably will not understand; however, you will make them think. I struggle with this similar problem. I stand up for the rights of all, and I'm Wiccan. It is easy to say I stand up for rights (although they still try to talk me out of it), as I always have. I guess I took it seriously when I was taught that everyone was "created" equal, and didn't quite get it when they started explaining the exceptions. Anyway, they've always known I was "odd" in this regard. What I haven't done is tell them I'm Wiccan. Why? Well, because I don't know that it is worth it to deal with the constant attempts at conversion. I also know that my dad will sincerely worry and agonize, because he will sincerely believe my immortal soul will burn in Hell forevermore. Is it worth it? I struggle with it. So, anyway, I can understand what you are going through, and wish I could give you magic words that would allow you to tell them and have them understand. Then, I'd truly be a Witch. :P The best approach I can come up with is the one Anonymous gave before me.

I have had similar but slightly different problems communicating with my mostly-evangelical Christian family about Buddhism. At first I felt bad about it, like I was somehow betraying the tribe. As time has gone by, I've become clear that the "tribal mentality" is itself a large part of the problems we have around here. Few in the groups you're concerned about are being encouraged to question their tribal culture: they're almost all marching in lock-step on philosophy, religion, values, political opinions, etc.; this is how we each pay for the comforting glow of our tribal memberships. The price is freedom of mind, being yourself, and being responsible for your own world view and values. Part of how the tribal mentality works is that children are conditioned from an early age to feel guilty for questioning the culture. This conditioning is deeply embedded in our psychology by the time we become adults, you can't just wipe it away by saying "I know I'm doing the right thing..." The guilt and sense of betrayal is automatic, it has nothing to do with the truth of your viewpoint or theirs on sexual issues. So the job becomes one of awareness and practice: you do need to tell the truth about what you're doing, and it will make you (and them) uncomfortable. Some of them will shun you, others will try to change your mind, etc. Its useful to bear in mind that, in a certain sense, they can't help themselves -- they're addicted to the apparent solidity of their world view and the sense of security it provides. They're required by the laws of unawareness to defend and extend the territory claimed by the tribe. You can still like them, even love them, without having to share their views. If you can tolerate the discomfort, it will eventually subside. But don't shy away from being yourself, you've come too far already. That has taken true courage, and you just have to keep walking. The path is always made in the walking.

Remember to STAY CALM. Don't critisize them for their beliefs, and don't let them critisize you. Just remember that this is what you believe, and if they love you, they'll let you be.

A warning- somebody may use your situation to make up a story that you had sex with them, trying to get money out of you.

That's probably not going to be a fun time, for anyone involved. As long as you can keep that in mind, you may find it easier to deal with the situation. You obviously care about them enough to tell them this, so hopefully, they will care enough about you, and think highly enough about you, to respect you and your beliefs. They may not immediately, but they may actually take this as an opportunity to explore this issue for themselves, and not just blindly follow some prejudiced dogmatic response. Or, maybe not. I'm an optimist, though! Of course, you've chosen to follow a difficult path, here. You're something of a stranger in a strange land to both groups. You probably have or will encounter various levels of prejudice and bigotry from both the family/religious side as well as from the gay side. The reasons your family and youth group leaders may have difficulty with this are, unfortunately, obvious. But, you have probably also raised questions, if not some ire, with those you seek to help. Personally, I think you're a exemplar human! How often do we find ourselves in a position to step out of our lives and do some good for others? I'm gay and I came out to one of the most influential people I had growing up, my piano teacher, who was not only a born-again Fundamentalist Christian, but also married to a minister! She reacted in a way that I can only HOPE others in the world experience: with love. Best wishes on your journey, my friend!

If you are an activist, you will act like an activist and just be upfront, politely, and let them know when the subject of GLBT citizens and their civil rights comes up in regular conversation. No need to hide it, no need to make a big issue of it either.

Forgiveness and understanding is a two-way streak. If they respect and need you - they will make way for your believes - if not they won't. Leadership is about transforming others.

Forgiveness and understanding is a two-way streak. If they respect and need you - they will make way for your believes - if not they won't. Leadership is about transforming others.

Forgiveness and understanding is a two-way streak. If they respect and need you - they will make way for your believes - if not they won't. Leadership is about transforming others.

Forgiveness and understanding is a two-way streak. If they respect and need you - they will make way for your believes - if not they won't. Leadership is about transforming others.

You are expressing a difference of opinion. If you think that you will change their minds, you are in for a huge fight and disappoinment. This may be one thing you want to agree to disagree about.

Explain that you are trying to be more Christ like and embrace your brothers and sisters and teach God's message of LOVE.

just go ahead without fear, if theyre decent people, then they will have to understand

just tell it to them straight! yep... the pun was intended, but so is the answer - just come out with it.

Tell them that, as a Christian, you feel it is your responsibility to stand up for people that are being unjustly attacked by other people. They may or may not accept or understand that attitude. For my part, speaking as a gay man, your willingness to take some hits in the process of protecting me and my rights, affirms my faith in the fundamental goodness of human beings. And I don't know what your family will say, but I just want to say this: Thank you.