2023 NORTH STAR ANNUAL CONFERENCE
BREAKOUT SESSION 2 | FRIDAY | 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM | WASATCH
CALLED TO SERVE WITH AUTHENTICITY
Having shared his experiences and insights as an openly gay missionary on both the Questions From the Closet (hosted by Charlie Bird and Ben Schilaty) and Listen, Learn, & Love (hosted by Richard Ostler) podcasts, Shane will share how his leaders, companions, and local church members were essential in his reaching those who may have never learned of Christ had the mention of an openly gay missionary not peaked their hope for someone who can relate. Shane will discuss the difference between belonging and fitting in, how his experiences with his Bishop and Stake President were monumental for his serving at all, and how The Lord taught him to serve with authenticity.
DEMOGRAPHIC: CHURCH LEADERS
SHANE CARPENTER
Shane is among the first to serve a mission while doing so with open transparency regarding his sexuality. He is a wedding photographer (shanecarpenterphotography.com & @shanecarpenterphoto on Instagram) as well as the Social Media Director for North Star running their main pages on Facebook and Instagram (@northstarsaints). With a Kelly Clarkson obsession and a love for Japanese animated films, Shane grew up in Austin, Texas, with his parents, Scott and Diane, and 5 siblings. After moving to Utah for a few years, he now lives near Denver, Colorado.