The star of The Real Housewives of Orange County, well-known for her deep Christian values, has candidly discussed how her 16-year-old son has reshaped her perspective on the LGBTQIA+ community, especially since he publicly came out a few years ago. This revelation has served as a critical turning point for Alexis, illustrating how personal experiences can challenge and ultimately transform longstanding beliefs.

During a heartfelt discussion with host Andy Cohen on the season 18 reunion of the Bravo series, Alexis expressed, “It hasn’t changed my thoughts about LGBTQ or that everyone should have their own right to live their life the way they want.” She emphasized that this journey has heightened her awareness of the pain and judgment faced by those in the LGBTQIA+ community, prompting her to become more vocal and supportive of their rights and experiences.

Despite her son’s transition, Bellino has maintained her spiritual beliefs, remarking that her feelings about God remain unchanged. This reflects a nuanced understanding that faith and acceptance can coexist, even when faced with significant personal and societal challenges. Her journey highlights the importance of open-mindedness and compassion in navigating complex family dynamics.

“I do not like to use the word religion and I think that’s a very negative connotation,” the 47-year-old reality star confessed. “I am very spiritual and I do love my God.” This statement underscores her personal interpretation of faith, suggesting a deeper, more personal connection to spirituality that transcends traditional religious labels.

Her strong belief in God has significantly influenced her relationships, particularly in romantic partnerships. This impact is evident in how she approaches love and commitment, indicating that her faith plays a crucial role in her personal life beyond the public eye.

Recently engaged to co-star Shannon Beador’s ex-boyfriend John Janssen, Bellino stirred conversations on the show when she stated that she prioritizes God in her relationships. This perspective prompted significant discussions during the reunion, reflecting her commitment to balancing love, faith, and family values in her life.

“That is the way God wants it to be,” the reality star asserted. “It’s supposed to be God, then your spouse, and then your kids. That is the way it works better in a marriage. I do have these values. When you believe in something greater than yourself, then you’re going to be a better person.” This statement encapsulates her philosophy on marriage and parenting, emphasizing the importance of spiritual values in fostering healthy relationships.

Bellino, who also has two other children—James, 17, and Mackenna, 16—from her previous marriage to Jim Bellino—shared Miles’ humorous reaction to the news of Janssen’s engagement. The light-hearted moment reflects the close-knit and supportive nature of their family, showcasing how they navigate life’s transitions together.

“I sent a picture of the engagement ring to the whole family chain. Miles’ response was ‘WTF,’” she recounted with a smile. “He was like, ‘CALL ME NOW,’ all capital letters. He’s like, ‘John, you didn’t ask my permission!’ It was cute. John’s like, ‘Are you okay with it?’ And Miles is like, ‘Yeah, I like you.’” This exchange highlights the genuine affection and humor within their family dynamics, even amidst significant life changes.

While Bellino’s return to the series faced some skepticism from co-stars like Beador and Emily Simpson, her bond with co-star Heather Dubrow grew stronger as they both navigate parenting children within the LGBTQIA+ community. Their shared experiences foster a supportive environment, highlighting the importance of connection and understanding among parents in similar situations.

“She’s been an extremely strong sounding board for me,” Dubrow noted, expressing gratitude for their friendship. “I appreciate it.” This acknowledgment emphasizes the value of having a supportive network, particularly for parents navigating the complexities of raising children in today’s diverse society.

The Real Housewives of Orange County’s three-part reunion concludes on November 21 at 9 p.m. ET on Bravo, promising more emotional revelations and heartfelt discussions as the cast reflects on their journeys.