Voice(s) of Hope • Brent and Courtney (Full Interview) • North Star International

The Ebmeyers share their story of being in a mixed-orientation marriage with Brent experiencing same-sex attraction and how they chose to continue to follow the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Brent and Courtney Ebmeyer are native Californians and have been members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints their whole lives. Brent served a mission in the Argentina Buenos Aires South Mission, while Courtney served hers in the Alabama Birmingham Mission. They are grateful for the experiences on their missions that grounded them in the gospel of Jesus Christ. They met in 2002 while living in Utah and were married in 2004. They have 5 children and currently serve in the bishopric as the 1st counselor and1st counselor in the YW presidency, respectively.
A year after they were sealed in the Oakland temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Brent shared his most intimate secret with his bride: he experiences same-sex attraction. It took them to the brink of separation, but through consistent communication, compassion, and love, they have been able to navigate the uncharted path of remaining active in the church in a mixed-orientation marriage. They find strength and feel the Savior’s love through sharing their story with others. They know that Heavenly Father is mindful of all of his children, and He wants them to find joy and be happy regardless of the trials or burdens that are placed on their paths in this mortal journey.