Behind the Music and Ministry: The Untold Story of Keith Green, LDM, and the Legacy of Sy Rogers

In the 1970s and 1980s, Christian communities were significantly shaped by Keith Green, his music, and the Last Days Ministry (LDM). Green’s life was tragically cut short in a 1982 plane crash, but his influence on young Christians was profound. His wife, Melody, has since carried on LDM's mission, which continues today.

Anthony Venn-Brown OAM, founder of Ambassadors & Bridge Builders International (ABBI) and author of "A Life of Unlearning," recently conducted a five-hour conversation with Tracey and Sharon, former LDM leaders who joined the ministry as teenagers. Their discussion speaks to their involvement with LDM and the impact of the 1984 newsletter, "I’m Gay - OK?", which played a crucial role in propelling Sy Rogers’ ministry onto the global stage. Rogers’ dramatic testimonial, “Man in the Mirror,” was widely distributed as an LDM tract and reached millions worldwide.

This extensive conversation has been edited into three engaging podcasts. They feature deep discussions, moments of humour, and some explicit language. The final episode reveals some astonishing insights that are bound to surprise listeners.

The feedback on these podcasts has been overwhelmingly positive. Listeners have described them as “profoundly moving and revelatory” and praised them for their eye-opening and often humorous exploration of fundamentalist attitudes towards homosexuality.

Despite Sy Rogers' passing in 2020, his legacy continues to resonate. The media coverage at the time of his death described him as a pastor who had “overcome homosexuality,” and his teachings remain influential. The myth that Rogers transitioned from being gay to straight persists, impacting many Christian parents who use his story to encourage their LGBTQ children to change.

Organisations like Focus on the Family still promote Rogers’ messages, and his teachings are widespread in Christian institutions. His materials, once influential in global megachurches and conferences, continue to be used in Christian education.

An email from Anthony Venn-Brown highlights the need to address these lingering misconceptions. The email, sent by a listener who had previously believed Rogers' story, expressed frustration and a sense of being trapped between conflicting messages about their identity and faith.

This post aims to shed light on these issues and offer clarity for those struggling with similar challenges. Sharing this information widely can help challenge outdated narratives and provide support to those affected.

Support Ambassadors & Bridge Builders International (ABBI) in their mission to advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and challenge harmful narratives. Your donation helps them provide vital resources and support to those navigating faith and identity. Every gift makes a difference. Please consider donating today to help them continue the important work they do! 

For more details, listen to the podcasts here and explore the resources provided.

Photo Source: abbi.org.au

Editors Note: This blog is based on information from the ABBI newsletter dated August 9, 2024. The views presented reflect ABBI’s perspective.