Tensions, Power, and Commitment:


 Experiences of being LGBTQ1 within Swedish free-church environments have not been highlighted to any great extent. In the autumn 2020, I participated, as an observing researcher, in a study group consisting LGBTQ persons and allies focusing on Christian environment. The discussions took their point departure question how we ensure that congregations are welcoming safe place for people. This article is based conversations during these meetings. articleI will examine power relations tensions were described investigate handle challenge them. results investigation show contexts permeated with hegemonic heteronormativity, structural which operates both visibly covertly. participants talk about unlivable compromises, emanating from membership always conditional subject certain terms persons. narrated experiences, ranging subtle com- ments or silences ostracism exclusion. All testified existence various forms conversion efforts contemporary free church recounted examples they had pressured prayer pastoral care silenced told it possible change one’s sexual orientation identity.