Finding Hope

Finding Hope: Faith, Gender, and the Search for Divine Understanding

By Christine R. Koren

What happens when faith, identity, and biology collide?

In Finding Hope, Christine R. Koren courageously shares her journey of navigating gender dysphoria and transgender identity as a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Through faith, revelation, and scientific understanding, she offers a compassionate exploration of how divine purpose and human experience can coexist-even when they seem at odds.

This inspiring and meticulously researched work is both a personal testimony and a ready reference guide for Church leadership, parents, and members seeking to understand and minister to those experiencing gender dysphoria or transgender feelings. Drawing from over 290 peer-reviewed scientific resources, scriptural foundations, and lived experience, Koren provides an authoritative yet deeply empathetic voice that bridges faith and evidence, doctrine and compassion.

• A deeply personal and spiritual account of living with gender dysphoria within the restored gospel.

• A scientific and theological synthesis explaining the biological, psychological, and environmental factors that shape gender identity.

• A structured resource for Church leaders, including:

  • Guidance for conducting sensitive interviews and offering pastoral care.

  • Christ-centered frameworks for integrating Church policy with compassion.

  • Suicide awareness and intervention tools based on evidence-based care.

• Practical insights for parents, families, and friends striving to support loved ones in faith and understanding.

• A message of hope, healing, and divine love, reminding all that no one is beyond the reach of the Savior's grace.

• Seek to reconcile faith, identity, and science in a gospel-centered way.

• Serve in leadership or ministering roles and need tools to counsel and support gender diverse members.

• Are parents or loved ones looking to better understand and affirm those they care about.

• Believe that truth, compassion, and revelation can walk hand in hand.

Finding Hope is more than a story-it's a bridge between faith and understanding, offering guidance to those who seek clarity, courage, and peace on the road toward divine self-acceptance.

You are not alone. You are loved. You are known by God.