The Truth Will Set You Free: Growing Up Gay in Opus Dei

A Journey of Truth and Freedom

Tim Pocock's Memoir on Faith, Identity, and Acceptance

We're excited to share news of an upcoming book that promises to be both deeply personal and universally resonant. "The Truth Will Set You Free: Growing Up Gay in Opus Dei" by Tim Pocock is set to release on June 25, 2025, and it's a story we believe will speak to many within our progressive Christian community.

Tim Pocock, known for his roles in "X-Men" and "Dance Academy," shares his experiences growing up in a conservative Catholic family and attending a school with links to Opus Dei. As reported by QNews, Pocock describes his time at Redfield College in Sydney as a "living hell" that took years to recover from. The memoir details his struggle with his identity as a gay man within a religious environment that deemed it unacceptable.

A Story of Hiding and Seeking

Pocock's journey involves navigating the pressures of family, faith, and the acting industry while grappling with immense trauma. He recounts his experiences with gay conversion therapy and his eventual pursuit of healing and self-acceptance. QNews highlights that Pocock, even at the premiere of "X-Men Origins: Wolverine," felt like "a lost little deer in the headlights," consumed by self-loathing and a "dark, soul-crushing secret."

My feeling of accomplishment that night was overshadowed by a crippling self-doubt. I was a fish out of water and, despite trying to fake it till I made it, I was an impostor.

Pocock's experiences at Redfield College, where "archaic, judgmental beliefs and manipulation" prevailed, stand in stark contrast to the message that "God is love," as he told QNews. He graduated in 2003 "carrying the guilt of someone who had committed a heinous crime, like murder," yet his only "crime" was being gay.

Why This Book Matters

This memoir is more than just a personal story; it's a powerful exploration of the intersection of faith and LGBTQ+ identity. It raises important questions about institutional harm, the challenges of reconciling religious beliefs with one's true self, and the journey toward finding freedom and authenticity.

For progressive Christians, this book offers an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue about inclusion, acceptance, and the importance of creating safe spaces for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Pocock's story encourages empathy and understanding, and it provides hope for those who may still be struggling to reconcile their faith with their identity.

The main lesson I've learnt from life is that the truth does indeed set you free. Though Veritas Liberabit Vos is Redfield's school motto, the way I was raised within their Opus Dei community turned my truth into a cage.

Pre-Order Your Copy

"The Truth Will Set You Free" is available for pre-order now. We encourage you to order a copy and join us in reading and discussing this important and timely memoir. Let's create a community of support and understanding as we explore Pocock's journey together.

Pre-Order Now

Support Resources

If you need someone to talk to, help is available from QLife on 1800 184 527 or online at QLife.org.au, Lifeline on 13 11 14, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or beyondblue on 1300 22 4636.

Creating spaces for authentic faith and inclusive community