Sexuality is experienced differently by different people. No two people experience their sexuality in quite the same way.
Some want more romance, some like more touching in a different way, some want emotional connection, some are attracted to their own gender.
Sexuality is as unique and individualistic as fingerprints. It is how God made us.
In a society that frequently misunderstands and even stigmatizes some sexual orientations, Warren Bittner, is providing a guiding light. Warren is a specialist and advocate for those grappling with their identity within a religious context.
A Brief Introduction
I recently had the opportunity to sit with Warren Bittner, an expert who has dedicated decades of his life to understanding and teaching the principles of self-mastery.
Warren is not just any specialist. He is the proud leader of the “Sons of Sacrifice” group, an ensemble of men who are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who identify as gay or same-sex attracted.
These valiant men maintain their testimonies of the gospel and desire to live a life in alignment with their faith, keeping their covenants.
Debunking the Myths
Some may think that the purpose of the “Sons of Sacrifice” group is to “fix” or change these men’s sexual orientation.
But that’s a widespread misconception.
Warren firmly believes that every individual’s sexuality is divinely unique.
The objective of his group is not to alter the innate attractions these men have, but to support them in finding comfort and confidence as active members of the Church, while acknowledging and embracing their sexuality as God has let it unfold in their lives.
The focus is not on the attraction itself, but rather on behaviors.
As Warren puts it, any sexual interaction outside of the marriage covenant is sin. It’s essential to understand this distinction: it’s not the attractions that are the issue but behaviors that misalign with church teachings.
The Power of Community
One of the most prominent hurdles these men face is shame – societal, self-inflicted, and sometimes from within the church. They often enter the “Sons of Sacrifice” community bearing this heavy weight. Warren and his group offer them a haven, free of judgment and shame, where they can find understanding and camaraderie.
These men are searching for something many of us take for granted—community. They seek to connect with individuals who understand their unique journey, especially within a religious framework where role models are sparse.
Motivation without Guilt
Warren believes in motivating through positive reinforcement, not through shame or guilt. He emphasizes that the true drive for these men stems from the spiritual fulfillment they experience when they align their lives with their faith.
A Unique Approach
What sets the “Sons of Sacrifice” group apart? They work on changing unwanted sexual behaviors and addictions by tracing them back to pre-sexual feelings and thoughts of anger, frustration, fear, anxiety, or other negative emotion.
They employ drills and techniques designed to help members feel their feelings, and then navigate to redirect these feelings and thoughts, thereby influencing their behaviors. For some men, it is a new experience to feel their attractions to the same sex, without negative sexual behaviors.
The Bigger Picture
The heart of the matter is, these men offer a valuable perspective to the community at large. Their struggles, resilience, and spiritual journeys enrich the fabric of the church, challenging prejudices and promoting understanding.
Getting Involved
For those intrigued or in need of such a community, “Sons of Sacrifice” can be reached via their website, https://sonsofsacrifice.org/. Even if you’re not ready to enroll, there’s always an option to anonymously observe and connect.
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At the end of the day, Warren Bittner and his “Sons of Sacrifice” group are testament to the belief that everyone should be embraced for who they are as God made them. Their journey serves as a beacon of hope and understanding in a society where gay men often struggle with both.
