I'm very blessed with being in one where my status is known to a significant number of people and I am not shunned. So it does happen - though obviously you can't be out and expect any contact with children of the congregation, a point to bear in mind when considering being more open.

And the reality is that ALL are struggling with temptations that they don't want - it's just that ours is less acceptable. In practice however there is a strong propensity as a result of pride for church goers to be dishonest about how hard it is to resist temptation. This has the result that we give a totally false impression of impression to any new comers; not healthy!

I'm encouraged that you are feeling drawn back to the church on its widest definition; I would encourage you to read the bible - especially using a modern paraphrase such as The Message, which is available free online at www.biblegateway.com along with a number of other versions. And when reading the bible don't just read short passages - read whole books. And don't neglect the Old Testament, especially Isaiah.

But overall - welcome aboard: you've found a place where you are normal - a major blessing for us BL Christians. And it is our experience that lots of people do turn up here deeply miserable, and as a result of finding us are able to find encouragement and new hope.