“FAITH: Finding Answers in the Healing Restoring Hope for the Hurt, Shamed, and Shunned.”

After the Podcast

Our August podcast, titled “FAITH: Finding Answers in the Healing Restoring Hope for the Hurt, Shamed, and Shunned,” was an incredibly powerful and eye-opening conversation. As the host, I had the privilege of interviewing Reverend Dr. Dionne Boyice, a Kansas City native and founder of WHOSOEVER: Community of F.A.I.T.H. (Finding Answers in the Healing). Throughout our discussion, I was struck by her deep commitment to healing those who have been wounded by traditional religious institutions, especially LGBTQ+ individuals who have experienced “church hurt.”

One of the most impactful moments for me was when Dr. Boyice, affectionately referred to as Pastor D, shared her ministry’s slogan: “God Did Not Create You To Hate You.”This statement, which encapsulates so much of what her ministry stands for, struck a chord in my heart. It reminded me of how many people have been made to feel unworthy or unloved by their faith communities, and how much healing is needed for those who carry the scars of religious rejection. Pastor D’s message of unconditional love and acceptance for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, felt like a call to action for all small faith communities.

What I found especially inspirational about WHOSOEVER is the way Pastor D and her wife, Leaundra, have intentionally created a space where individuals can reconnect with their faith in an affirming and safe environment. They have built a sanctuary for those who have been shunned or shamed, offering not only spiritual support but also addressing the deep emotional and psychological wounds caused by religious trauma. I was inspired by the care and empathy that Pastor D brings to her ministry, especially considering her 30 years of experience in the mental health field. Her understanding of the mental wellness challenges that come with church hurt—depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation—adds a unique layer of depth to the support her ministry offers.

Another aspect of our conversation that I found particularly interesting was Pastor D’s perspective on how small faith communities can follow the model of WHOSOEVER. Her ministry’s slogan, “God Did Not Create You To Hate You,” can be a guiding principle for other small congregations looking to create spaces of radical inclusion and love. It’s a reminder to faith communities that their outreach, sermons, and community engagement should reflect diversity and offer a place of healing to those who have been marginalized.

I also appreciated Pastor D’s transparency regarding the financial aspects of running a ministry like WHOSOEVER. She shared that her funding was secured through denominational support, but also encouraged other small faith communities to seek alternative funding. Some examples of acquiring funds would be grants, fundraisers, or investors. This part of our conversation was a practical reminder that financial backing is essential to fostering growth and creating sustainable worship spaces that can continue to provide services for faith communities.

During our discussion, the importance of addressing mental health in faith communities was centered. Pastor D emphasized the need for small congregations to offer mental health resources, counseling, and support groups, especially for those who have been triggered by their previous experiences with church. Her focus on holistic care—nurturing both the mind and spirit—was a powerful reminder of the responsibility faith leaders have in addressing the whole person.

In the end, what stood out most to me was Pastor D’s dedication to transforming lives through compassion, inclusion, and the message of unconditional love. Her work with WHOSOEVER is a blueprint for how small faith communities can impact their members and create spaces where the hurt, shamed, and shunned can find healing and restoration. I left the conversation feeling both inspired and challenged to think about how we can all do more to care for those who have been wounded by the very institutions that should offer them refuge.

Visit the WHOSOEVER:Community of FAITH website HERE: http://whosoeverdoc.com/

Check out our conversation HERE:

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