My friend Dave Higham joins us from his home on Vancouver Island, British Columbia to share his story. Dave (in his mid-50’s) shares this story of losing his church membership while serving as a Bishop, in hopes of helping others who have lost their membership and are working to have their membership restored.

Dave talks about the shame and embarrassment of losing his Church membership and the possible impact on other’s testimonies—and how he is finding peace. Dave talks about friends that reach out with “how can I help”, how he is staying close to his Heavenly Father and Jesus, how he can still feel Their love and the Spirit, and what he is doing to strengthen his testimony.

Dave also talks about the sometimes-difficult experiences and how we can better minister to and support someone who has lost their membership.

Dave talks about the blog he has started and the support group that starts in September 2023 for others who have lost their church membership—and the need to have community for those walking this road to give hope, support, and perspective. Dave also talks about the “fellowship of the forgiven” of those who have been through a repentance process that brought them closer to Christ - and their important work in this space.

I was so moved listening to Dave. Dave doesn’t diminish the consequences of his decision—but is now focused on doing his best to learn, grow and move forward—something I believe is at the core of repentance. Dave also has a deep desire to help others through his experience—which includes being on this podcast and starting his blog (see show notes).

Thank you, Dave, for being brave and your courage to be on the podcast. You are a good man and continue to bless others.

Links:

Blog: https://onesheep.blog/

Instagram: @OneSheep.blog