This week on Unpacked we chat with  Kevin Castanheiro. Kevin is a former executive with Mexx Clothing, a world traveller, the current leader of an aquaculture ministry in Haiti, and our good friend. Plus sponsor of the Shoulder to Shoulder series! This week we take you through the remarkable story of Kevin, a gay man, and Evan, a long-time traditional pastor. Two people on the outside over 12 years ago met with seemingly opposing worldviews and find their lives changed by meeting at a funeral that leads to a journey of self-discovery and a unique friendship. Kevin shares his deeply personal story of coming out, navigating faith, the loss of his partner and how he came to be a part of a faith community where he experienced belonging.  Meanwhile, a devout pastor, Evan opens up about his transformation, from holding traditional views to forming a friendship with Kevin. It's a story of friendship that transcends differences and prejudices, where they don't aim to change each other's minds, but instead, strive to share their hearts openly. We chat about their story of coming to understand in a deeper way how to have important conversations up close as opposed to making judgements at arm's length. Learn what it means to belong, create a safe place truly for all, how silence can be dangerous and how relationships and stories are transforming and clarifying. We discuss the history of Kevin and Evan meeting all the way up to the present day of leaving the church. Join us as we uncover hope and understanding, one heartfelt conversation at a time.

The producers and co-creators of the Unpacked Podcast present a special series 10-part series Shoulder to Shoulder. Shoulder to Shoulder is co-hosted by  Evan Dewald, Tara Linsley and Kevin Castanherio unpacking the relationship between the church and the LGTBQ+ community with ex-pastors, inclusive churches, thought leaders, and LGBTQ+ members. Episodes drop weekly on Tuesdays.

The goal is not to change your mind, but we are here to challenge that we can disagree and still love. We can disagree and include. We can disagree, stand up for the marginalized, and take responsibility for harm. And there is room for all in this space as we come together.

Shoulder to Shoulder is brought to you by Kevin Castanheiro and Joel Fortier in partnership with Unpacked Podcast.

LINKS
-Book: If I was your girl by Meredith Russo
-Episode 1 Introduction Series
-Episode 2 Joel Hubbard
-Episode 3 Joel Fortier
-Episode 4 Pastor Judy Howard Peterson
-Episode 5 Coming out U
-

Support the Show.

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

Instagram:@theunpackedpod
Facebook: @theunpackedpod
unpackedpod.ca

Support the show

*music by Bensound