Belonging Without Compromise: A Journey of Faith and Same-Sex Attraction

Belonging Without Compromise: A Journey of Faith and Same-Sex Attraction

July 14, 2026 · 45 min · Season 9

About this episode

Dr. Carol and Tony Scarcello discuss his journey of faith and same-sex attraction, exploring themes of redemption and community.

In this episode, Dr. Carol sits down with Tony Scarcello to explore his deeply personal journey involving faith, sexuality, loss, and redemptions. Tony shares about growing up in conservative Pentecostalism, discovering his same-sex attraction at age 12, and the depression and substance abuse that followed. He talks candidly about his first sense of redemption at age 16, being fired from his position as a youth pastor, the complications same-sex attraction brought to his marriage, and the journey of rebuiding his life and ministry calling. This conversation looks at the biblical passages often discussed in debates surrounding same-sex relationships, while highlighting a broader and richer understanding of God's design for marriage, identity, and human flourishing. Tony offers an insightful distinction between sinfulness and fallenness, helping listeners understand how Christians can approach same-sex attraction with true compassion while holding to orthodox Christian theology. We also dive into attachment theory, belonging, and the importance of authentic Christian community. Whether you agree or disagree with Tony's theological conclusions, this conversation offers a thoughtful…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Carol Peters-Tanksley

Guest: Tony Scarcello

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Pentecostalism

Books & works: Love All Our Neighbors

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