Exodus: Live Out Loud

Grace and Gay Men

Randy Thomas in Boundless:

AIDS as a social issue has been used to scare people. And it should. Over the past 20-plus years there have been valiant efforts to humanize the AIDS issue with regard to African American community, drug abusers and orphans in Uganda. The thing is, when it comes to gay identified males ... the corporate Church has been estranged and reluctant.

As the AIDS pandemic first hit, we in the Body of Christ missed an opportunity to express God's servant heart and grace. In this redemptive void, a few stepped forward to stigmatize homosexual men. Even today, the overarching consistent message coming from the Christian community has been one of stigmatization and warning.

Certainly, it's very appropriate to educate and "warn" about the dangers of sexual relationships outside of a biblical sexual ethic. But I did not and do not think it is appropriate to stigmatize a large group of men whom the Lord loves, dismissing them as unworthy of our love.

Read the whole article >>

Gay-Identified Bishop Refuses to "Lend Credibility" to Symposium

From Warren Throckmorton:

Today, the Washington Blade reported that Bishop Gene Robinson backed out of his scheduled presentation at the American Psychiatric Association conference. He was scheduled to present about “A Pastoral Approach for Gay & Lesbian People Troubled by Homosexuality.”

Bishop Robinson provided the following explanation:

“Conservatives, particularly Focus on the Family, were going to use this event to draw credibility to the so-called reparative therapy movement,” Robinson told the Blade. “It became clear to me in the last couple of weeks that just my showing up and letting this event happen … lends credibility to that so-called therapy.”

This is quite troubling and not at all accurate. Since no one on the panel planned to speak about reparative therapy, it is clear to me that the Bishop was misinformed. The symposium was approved by the APA in October of 2007 and nothing has changed in the descriptions, personnel or intent of the symposium since then. The meeting is not going to endorse reparative approaches, or advocate for any change in APA policy.

Psychiatrists: Let's Talk About Homosexuality

From CitizenLink:

Two social conservatives will share the stage with two pro-homosexual speakers in a notable attempt at a “balanced discussion” sponsored by the American Psychiatric Association (APA).

The pro-homosexual speakers — Bishop Gene Robinson, an openly homosexual Episcopalian in New Hampshire, and Dr. David Scasta, past president of the Association of Gay and Lesbian Psychiatrists — will seek “common ground and new perspectives” with two conservatives: the Rev. Albert Mohler, president of South Baptist Theological Seminary and a member of the Focus on the Family board of directors; and Dr. Warren Throckmorton, associate professor of psychology at Grove City College.

“The symposium acknowledges the role of religious belief as a core variable in the development of sexual identity,” Throckmorton told CitizenLink. “To my knowledge, this meeting, distinguished by diversity of religious viewpoints, is unprecedented at APA.”

The symposium is scheduled for 2 to 5 p.m. EDT, on Monday, May 5, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.

Read the whole article >>

Alan Chambers in New Man Magazine

New Man: You struggled with same-sex attraction yourself. Did that experience lead you to the ministry you’re in today?

 

Alan Chambers: Definitely. When I was growing up the only thing you ever heard about from the Bible regarding homosexuals was that they don’t inherit the kingdom of God. That’s the one thing that rings in my head from childhood. So when I found out that there was a local Exodus ministry, that there was help for people like me, I jumped at it.

 

New Man: So years later you have come back to be the president of Exodus?

 

Chambers: Yes, I’m the president of Exodus. Really from the time I was 18 until now—I’m 36—I’ve never left the ministry. I started out as someone who was participating and someone who needed help and then I was a volunteer, than on staff at a local ministry and worked through the ranks and to where I am now.

 

New Man: Your ministry is inherently controversial. You have been interviewed by a number of news outlets and you’re unapologetic about trying to change homosexuals. What is your response to someone who says, “They can’t change”?

 

Chambers: Well my first response is that we don’t change people. I want to be very clear about that. We are people who simply point to the truth and Scripture, to the truth of our testimonies and to the grace of a God who promises He’ll free anyone who submits his will to His Lordship. It will be different for different people. I know a lot of people that didn’t experience a change in their feelings. They didn’t experience the same freedom I did, which is sometimes hard to understand.

Read the whole interview >>

APA: No Consensus on Cause of Homosexuality

From CitizenLink:

Group gives credence to the view that both nature and nurture are involved.

The American Psychological Association (APA) may be shifting from its view that homosexuality is inborn. The group now says both nature and nurture are involved, and clients have a right to self-determination.

In a new brochure, the APA concedes that there is no scientific consensus on what causes same-sex attraction.

“They are starting to have the integrity of reporting accurately about the condition of homosexuality," said Randy Thomas, executive vice president of Exodus International. "We find this to be a very exciting move and hope that it indicates future movement toward recognizing that people can and do overcome homosexuality.” 

Glenn Stanton, director of global family formation studies at Focus on the Family, said the brochure has an activist bent, but he sees a ray of hope.

“This doesn’t mean that we’ve completely succeeded in all the things that we’ve wanted to," he said, "but it’s a move in the direction that we’ve wanted them to move in, and I think that’s very positive news.”

Exodus Representatives Participate in Documentary Screening

"For the Bible Tells Me So," a documentary about Christian families who were faced with a homosexual child, and ultimately grew to embrace their homosexuality, was presented at an open screening at Stetson University last week. The screening was followed by a discussion panel featuring the film's director, Daniel Karslake. Among the other panelists were Mike Ensley of Exodus Youth and Dr. Julie Hamilton, a professional counselor affiliated with Exodus.

From the Daytona Beach News-Journal Online:

Overall, the movie won praise from both the conservative and liberal panel members.

"I loved that the core of it was families' stories," said Mike Ensley, a counselor with Exodus Ministries, which helps youth wanting to overcome homosexuality.

The documentary focuses on five Christian families coming to terms with a gay son or daughter. Just released on DVD, it's becoming a popular movie for church screenings, said filmmaker Daniel Karslake...

...Dissenting about some of the movie's science was Julie Harren Hamilton, a Palm Beach psychologist and president-elect of the National Association for the Research and Therapy of Homosexuality, which helps clients change their sexual orientation.

She disputed the suggestion that homosexuality is simply genetic, arguing that the causes are more complicated.

Karslake, the filmmaker, defended his research but agreed with Hamilton that everyone should study the issues for themselves and draw their own conclusions.

Meet an Exodus Ministry

Like many of Exodus' local Member Ministries, New Creation Ministries in Fresno, California serves people struggling with a broad range of sexual issues, not just homosexuality. Here's an excerpt from the most recent monthly letter from NCM's Director, Russell Willingham:

People come here at every stage of their healing journey. Some are brand new and terrified. Others have been in recovery for awhile but experience a huge breakthrough. Still others are in a place of spiritual and relational health for the first time in their lives and praising God for it...

"William" has been here for a year. Raised in a violent, alcoholic home he experienced things that no boy should ever see. It taught him not to trust anyone or ever let them in. In his loneliness he turned to any woman who would have him (being attractive and likable enabled him to have many such women). A few years ago he came to Christ and eventually came to NCM for help with his sexual sin and brokenness.

William devours his Bible and has a thirst for God bust has never really felt God's personal love for him... Being in counseling and group has helped but the biggest breakthroughs have come through worship. During the regular worship times in our weekly groups he has felt the Lord draw nearer and nearer. William beams now as he shares about God's love for him...

I don't have time to tell you about "Nancy" who has struggled since childhood with lesbianism and a hatred for her body--who is now in love and letting a man into her heart for the first time; or "Eric," the Mormon elder and life-long sex addict who is finding answers that years of therapy and church involvement never gave him.

These are the kinds of people you enable us to help through your giving and praying...

The real ministry of Exodus International takes place at the local level through our many affiliates who support, encourage and challenge the struggling individuals and families who come to them for help. Please prayerfully consider finding the Exodus affiliate in your area and asking the Lord if and how he would like you to support their vital work.

Russell Willingham has also written two outstanding books, Breaking Free and Relational Masks, both of which are available at the Exodus Bookstore.

'Liberation:' Exodus in WORLD Magazine

From WORLD:

A couple of days ago, Tony Woodlief’s WoW post, “Anti-homosexual Christianity,” stirred quite a conversation. Tony looked at a piece of the book UnChristian, whose authors observe of the church that “outsiders say our hostility toward gays - not just opposition to homosexual politics and behaviors but disdain for gay individuals - has become virtually synonymous with the Christian faith.”

The post interested me greatly because I spent quite a bit of time this week talking with former homosexuals, and with Catholic, Jewish, evangelical, and secular counselors and psychologists who help people walk away from unwanted same-sex attraction. Two trends emerged:

First, it appears that the cultural liberation of homosexuality is also liberating those seeking to escape it.

Second, the cultural mainstreaming of homosexuality is awakening some churches to more compassionate ways of dealing with homosexuality — without endorsing the behavior.

Read the whole article >>

"A New Day" - the 2008 Exodus International Freedom Conference

Join hundreds of other men, women, families, ministers and youth as we fellowship together in Asheville, North Carolina at this year's International Freedom Conference. Click here for more information.

Pride and Prejudice: Montel Williams Style

By Alan Chambers:

So, Montel Williams has a temper.

While in Savannah to promote a program offering free prescriptions to those with low incomes, the talk-show host blew up at Courtney Scott, a high school intern at the Savannah Morning News, when she asked him, "Do you think pharmaceutical companies would be discouraged from research and development if their profits were restricted?" Williams terminated the interview and later said to Scott, "Do you know who I am? I'm a big star, and I can look you up, find where you live and blow you up." He has since apologized.

Some might be surprised by the Montel's irrational outburst. I'm not. I was a guest on his show this past March and witnessed the same pride as well as an ample display of his prejudice.

Read the whole column at WorldNetDaily >>

APA: Don't Ban Ex-Gay Support

From LifeSite:

Debbie Thurman was shocked when she was told by homosexual activists that, as she defined herself as a former sufferer of same-sex attraction disorder, she could not possibly exist. In a very personal self-disclosure, Thurman has written urging the American Psychiatric Association (APA) not to carry out its threat to ban therapy intended to correct the underlying psychological causes of homosexuality.

Thurman writes that "gay activists" tried to deny her own experience of having overcome same-sex attraction, so entrenched is the doctrine of "sexual orientation" as an indelible characteristic.

Read the article >>

Controversy Over Ex-Gay Singer on Obama Tour

From FOXNews:

Barack Obama trails Hillary Clinton among black voters but the entertainment planned for his upcoming African American gospel outreach project has another key liberal constituency — gays, lesbians and transgenders — outraged.

Obama has announced that he will include an openly gay minister in this weekend's event, but gay rights groups are still steaming about the inclusion of Donnie McClurkin in the "Embrace the Change" concert tour.

In a letter to Obama obtained by FOX News, the National Black Justice Coalition complains that Obama's concert is being headlined by "gospel music's most openly homophobic artists; the most volatile of which is the Rev. Donnie McClurkin."

"Your willingness to share a stage with Rev. Donnie McClurkin is alarming and, frankly, deeply disappointing. Rev. McClurkin has consistently disparaged gay men and lesbians, spread half-truths and unproven theories about our lives and has shown a willingness to work with those who would use the rights of gay Americans as a wedge issue to divide black families for their own cynical political objectives," wrote NBJC Chief Executive Officer H. Alexander Robinson.

Read the article >>

How Will You Respond to Homosexuality?

by Alan Chambers

One night while she was co-hosting The 700 Club, Sheila Walsh felt led to pray for homosexuals. Honoring the Holy Spirit’s prompting, she thanked God for His love for homosexuals and His desire for a relationship with them. She then invited all homosexual viewers to pray with her for salvation. When Sheila finished praying she encouraged those who had prayed with her to go to a church in their area, tell the pastor that they had asked Jesus into their heart, and say, “Sheila Walsh sent me.”

Sheila later received a letter from a gay man who had been watching the broadcast. He had asked Jesus into his heart, gone to a local church, met with the pastor, shared that he was gay and about the broadcast he saw. The pastor responded, “We don’t have room for fags in this church.” In his letter, the man shared that he was grateful to her, but that being a part of “The Church” was just not possible.

Read the rest of Alan's article for the Ethic's and Religious Liberty Commission >>

Former Homosexuals Applaud Research Showing Sexual Orientation Change Possible

Nashville, TN--Leaders of the world's largest outreach to those dealing with unwanted homosexuality commended recent research showing change in sexual orientation to be possible at a press conference today in Nashville.

The study, released by InterVarsity Press yesterday, is the first longitudinal, peer-reviewed, scientific research of its kind on this topic to date. Researchers Stanton L. Jones and Mark A. Yarhouse released the results of a three-year study during an address at the American Association of Christian Counselors World Conference. Their findings indicate that religiously mediated sexual orientation change is possible for some individuals and does not cause psychological harm to the patient, on average. These conclusions directly contradict the claims of both the American Psychological Association and the American Psychiatric Association that state that change in sexual orientation is impossible and attempting to pursue this alternative is likely to cause depression, anxiety or self-destructive behavior. The major findings of this study are reported in full in the book Ex-Gays? A Longitudinal Study of Religiously Mediated Change in Sexual Orientation (InterVarsity Press).

Former American Psychological Association President, Nicholas A. Cummings, Ph.D., Sc.D., praised the research methods of Jones and Yarhouse, "This study has broken new ground in its adherence to objectivity and a scientific precision that can be replicated and expanded, and it opens new horizons for investigation." In the absence of any scientific, peer-reviewed research on this topic, Exodus International funded the research conducted by Jones and Yarhouse.

Alan Chambers, a former homosexual and President of Exodus International, responded to the study findings at today's press conference, "Finally, there is now scientific evidence to prove what we as former homosexuals have known all along - that those who struggle with unwanted same-sex attraction can experience freedom from it.

For years, opponents of choice have said otherwise and this body of research is critical in advancing the national dialogue on this issue. Chambers, who was joined by researcher Dr. Stanton Jones at the press conference today, added, "Anyone who has undergone the life-changing process of leaving homosexuality behind will tell you that it is not an easy one. However, for thousands of us, the journey has been well worth it and we are grateful that these study findings give credence to our existence as men and women whose lives have been transformed by Jesus Christ."

Truth & Tolerance DVD Promo

In the two short months since its release, Exodus Youth's DVD resource Truth & Tolerance has become one of our top-selling resources. We've recently put together this promotional video clip for YouTube. Check it out!

Exodus Student Ministries Releases New DVD

Exodus' Student Ministry department is proud to announce the release of "Truth & Tolerance," our first DVD resource made especially for youth and young adult ministries.

This DVD, hosted by Scott Davis, Director of Exodus Student Ministries, brings the truth to life through the testimonies of four people who struggled with homosexuality as teens. The video is centered around a 25-minute segment which will address such topics as:

How should we respond to friends who struggle with homosexual feelings?
What is homosexuality really all about?
What does God really say?
Can people really change?

 

The video also includes a lesson on Biblical perspectives taught by Scott Davis, as well as the uninterrupted testimonies of Michelle Robinson and Mike Ensley. Sure to profoundly impact young people's hearts and minds on the issue of sexuality, this resource is a must-have for any student ministry.

Click here to purchase.

Click here to download the free video discussion guide.

The Day of Silence

Tomorrow is the Day of Silence. Many high school students across the nation will experience the silent demonstration by their peers all day, and possibly receive materials produced by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) through their local GSA club. It's quite possible that many school administrators and teachers will also partake in the demonstration, lecturing students about GLBT issues.

It's important that GLSEN, for the most part, be opposed and not allowed to take free reign with the educational system. I'm not talking about opposing the goal of safer schools—but that isn't GLSEN's only goal, or even their primary one.

GLSEN is all about promoting the mistaken belief that homosexuality, bisexuality and transgenderism are innate, unchangeable, and should be unconditionally celebrated by all. Furthermore, they encourage young people to make unhealthy and often dangerous lifestyle choices. It's all over their programs and materials.

For instance, take a look at their "recommended reading" for 7^th through 12^th graders: books like Rainbow Boys, a fictional narrative in which a teen boy has an anonymous sexual encounter with an older man. Or Revolutionary Voices, which calls prostitution an "empowering experience." The book Free Your Mind urges young people to leave their churches and cut family members out of their lives if they aren't gay-affirming, telling them they can make more "meaningful relationships" via gay and lesbian chat rooms.

Massachusetts parents were outraged when GLSEN, using state funds, hosted a workshop for hundreds of students in which they promoted dangerous sexual activities that I can't even describe to you without this being an X-rated post. Despite the fall-out from the first time this happened, the workshop returned the next year, minus a few endorsements.    

GLSEN knows its real agenda is extremely controversial, which is why they work so hard to bar other points of view from the school system, create hostility against opposing beliefs, and keep parents out of the loop.

But your average student participating in the Day of Silence has no idea what GLSEN is all about. This organization works hard to make its image all about tolerance, safer schools, ending harassment, etc. These are admirable goals, and that's what draws students to buy into their events and programs.   

While the Day of Silence is part of an agenda that's nothing like real tolerance, for most of the speechless students you'll encounter on Wednesday, it is just about creating a safe environment. Which makes their goal and yours pretty similar.

The Day of Truth isn't about politically defeating gay-identified people, and it certainly isn't about defending bullying or true bigotry. We're proclaiming the fact that God has created us with a beautiful design, and that those who struggle with their sexuality and don't want to be gay (and there's lots of them) don't have to be. And we are saying that true tolerance means we can get along even when we disagree.

Day of Truth events from coast to coast, tomorrow night:

Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Tulare, CA

NEA Shuts Out Advocate for Change

Courtesy of AgapePress:

A conservative educator from Pennsylvania received a chilly response while addressing delegates to the National Education Association's annual convention held in New Orleans earlier this month.

Sissy Jochmann, a second grade teacher from Pennsylvania and chair of the Conservative Educators Caucus, delivered a two-minute speech in which she urged the NEA to support students in their right to choose not to engage in homosexual behavior. But Jochmann says delegates booed and shouted angrily at her while she spoke.

Jochmann's speech called on the NEA to provide "a full range of information and support resources available on homosexuality" and to be more tolerant of people on all sides of the issue. But the audience met Jochmann's proposal with antagonistic heckling and jeers.

"At one point -- the representative assembly -- I was speaking to over 9,400 people. It was a thunderous roar -- they didn't even want to consider debating it," she says.

Apparently the powerful educators' union is less tolerant than it purports to be -- and Jochmann is not the first to call attention to the organization's double standards.

In an editorial written for the organization Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays and Gays, Dr. Warren Throckmorton revealed that the NEA convention for the past two years has denied exhibit space to PFOX. Last year, convention organizers told PFOX, an organization that supports homosexuals' right to choose to change their sexual orientation, that no space was available -- although they continued to sell exhibition space to other groups. This year, the NEA refused even to accept the group's application.

Read more >>

Exodus Youth Articles in Spanish

Thanks to the generosity of Ruben Gonzales of Zapatos Nuevos, we are now featuring some of our Exodus Student Ministries articles in Spanish. We've received many requests for Spanish-language resources for youth, but it hasn't been a possibility until now.

Currently, we have Spanish versions of two articles: Gender and Sexuality: Fluid or Solid and What if I'm Still Struggling? Enjoy!

Spanish Articles

What if I'm Still Struggling?

There are many powerful stories out there about men and women whom God has delivered from the gay lifestyle. It touches the heart and certainly glorifies God when we see these people getting married and leading godly lives free of homosexuality, but in all honesty, what about the rest of us who deal with this issue and haven’t come to our “happy ending” yet? What about those of us who continue to struggle with same-sex attraction (SSA), even after choosing to follow Christ? We’re caught in a sort of identity limbo, unsure whether we can or even should hope to experience heterosexual desire, get married and start a family someday.

If you’re like me, all those testimonies from now-married “ex-gays” and those who have been “supernaturally delivered” from their struggle can be more of a frustration than an encouragement. Who can give men like us practical, understanding guidance? In the midst of an ongoing battle, how ought we to think about ourselves, our struggles, our future and our God?

As a single guy who continues to experience h same-sex attractions, these questions matter a heck of a lot to me. The world around me would say, “You’re still gay and nothing can change it! Accepting it is the only hing that will make you happy.” But, my faith in God’s Word—as well as my conviction and my personal experience—tell me otherwise.

The transformation many of us desire is a complete 180-degree turnaround of our sexual attractions; a transformation of our feelings. And let’s be honest, we often hope or expect that this change should occur without much of our own effort or sacrifice. But the Bible tells us that our metamorphosis as Christians happens a different way:

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 (emphasis added)

Read the rest >>

 

Is Change Possible... for Sheep?

From Earthtimes.org:

NEW YORK: Experiments conducted by scientists to change the sexuality of homosexual sheep have drawn ire from gay and lesbian activists. They are afraid the efforts could lead to extinction of homosexuality in humans.
 
The experiments have been approved by the government as farmers complained they are financially affected when one in 10 rams, on average, is gay. After extensive studies of the brains of the homosexual rams, scientists at the Oregon State University have been able to identify the processes that influence their sexual orientation.
 
These rams were given injections so that the levels of hormones in the brains responsible for the orientation were adjusted with the result that some of the previously gay rams started interacting with ewes.

Former Wimbledon champion Martina Navaratilova, who is a self-admitted lesbian, described the efforts as "homophobic." A gay rights activist likened the experiments to Nazi research in the early 1940s which aimed at eradicating homosexuality. He described them as eugenics.
 
The scientists said their research is confined to reducing or eliminating gay sheep. Charles Roselli, a biologist leading the research team, said sexuality has been an under-studied subject because of political concerns.

"It's a touchy issue. In fact, several studies have shown that people who believe homosexuality is biologically based are less homophobic than people who think that this orientation is acquired," he said.
 
He said any possible applications of his research to humans were not a matter for him.

Gay activists say the simplicity of the process in altering the hormonal balance of the brain could become easily applicable to humans, when research can be conducted and methods devised to screen unborn children for 'gayness' and even parents resorting to treat their children to become heterosexual.

For a long time it has seemed that the gay activists' message to us was that homosexuality was biologically determined and therefore immutable. So why would they oppose research which, though it has nothing to do with human social politics, would seem to prove that homosexuality is biological, at least in animals?

It appears that the true distillation of the gay activist's platform is this: same-sex attracted people have to be gay. Whether there is a path to freedom from homosexuality through relational growth and counseling or even medical/hormonal treatment, they're against it. Why can't they accept the possibility of a choice?

It's becoming more common to hear activists say even if being gay was a choice, they would choose it because it's such a good life. This is a powerful argument, but it simply isn't true.  The fact is, nobody wants to be gay.The reason these extremists react so strongly to the discoveries of a specific cause (which they seem to have wanted) is because they know that if an easy way out was found, people would be leaving the gay lifestyle in droves; nothing would be a bigger disaster for pro-homosexual ideology and political power.

Another point this brings up is the absolute hypocrisy of these activists who, while condemning any remote possibility of "treating" homosexuality medically or psychologically, support and celebrate drug treatments and even surgery aimed at changing the gender of confused adolescents and children.

The Fluidity of Gender and Sexuality

From the January 2007 issue of the EY Voice

A lot of people lately are talking about a complete overhaul in the way our society thinks about sexuality and gender. One of the biggest concepts being promoted is “fluid” gender and sexuality. It’s coming to our attention more and more that people are having a wide range of experiences in their sexual attractions and responses. Some take this to mean that our sexuality is meant for whatever it may respond to, and people should experiment to try to find their “true” sexuality. Straight, gay, bi and trans can’t even cover all of what’s out there, some are saying.

This same idea of fluidity is being applied to gender. Many are considering that perhaps the binary (two-part) concept of male and female is too rigid. After all, there are so many people who grow up never feeling like they fit into either of the stereotypical gender roles presented to them by society. Some believe that this is evidence that there are other sexes besides male and female, and society should recognize and promote them.

But is this concept of fluid gender and sexuality for real? The thoughts, emotions and urges we experience are certainly real, but are we coming to the right conclusions about them? One thing that we can all agree on is that gender and sexuality are a beautiful and very important part of who we are.

Whenever an idea gets revolutionized in our culture, I think there’s always something good behind it; some wrong that needs to be made right. However, people have a bad habit of swinging the pendulum too far in the opposite direction, and ending up with a mistake that’s as bad as or worse than what they were trying to change in the first place.

I think there’s something to this “fluidity” thing. We should all carefully consider what’s true and beneficial—and what’s going too far.

Read the rest of this article >>

New Study Points to Environmental Factors in Sexual Attraction

Warren Throckmorton on BP News:

Mark Twain said once: "Rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated." If environmental factors in sexual preference could talk, they might say the same thing. For sure, social or family factors in influencing sexual attractions have been written off by numerous scholars and media members. However, a new Danish study may prompt a fresh evaluation of the role of social factors in sexual orientation.

The study, published in the October 2006 issue of Archives of Sexual Behavior, authored by Danish epidemiologist Morten Frisch and statistician Anders Hviid, reports the analysis of data from more than two million men and women. It is the first study to examine an entire group of homosexuals for environmental factors in their decisions to "marry" homosexually. The research suggests a link between environmental factors such as geographic birthplace and family relationships and the probability of "marrying" a same-sex partner. The massive study also finds that the number of brothers and sisters affects the probability of marrying heterosexually. This finding questions a recent, widely touted Canadian study of birth order that found the number of older brothers increased the probably of homosexuality in men.

Read the whole article >>

New York Times and World Magazine Quote Exodus President

         

Reporters with The New York Times and World magazine recently interviewed Alan Chambers, President of Exodus International, about evangelicals, faith and homosexuality.

Church denominations and Christians around the world continue to grapple with the difficult and often-confusing topic of homosexuality. As the largest Christian outreach ministry dealing with this issue, Exodus remains dedicated to equipping the evangelical church with a compassionate, biblical response.

"It is our great hope that the global church will take advantage of the opportunity to reaffirm the compassionate truth of the Gospel so that more individuals can experience the freedom Jesus Christ offers," said Chambers.

Alan Chambers has recently authored the book God's Grace and the Homosexual Next Door — a guide to helping evangelicals reach out to hurting individuals in the gay community.

 

How can Homosexuality NOT be the Answer?

“Homosexuality isn’t the answer.”

                   

Yeah, right. You know, most of my life I’ve felt pretty gay. If homosexuality isn’t the answer, then why have I always had these desires and urges? Why did it feel good when I gave in and entertained them, and when I acted on them?

When I kissed my first boyfriend, fireworks went off like crazy. It was confirmation of what all my desires and fantasies had been telling me. It seemed there could be no greater proof that I was queer as a three-dollar bill.                   

Even when he broke up with me a month later to be with an older man, it’s not like I rejected homosexuality because of that. This wasn’t about him, it was about me. I still wanted a boyfriend. Every desire and emotion in me still seemed to be telling me that if I was going to be happy, if I was going to experience “falling in love,” it would have to be with another guy. I didn’t feel anything like this for girls.

That’s the place I was in, and I know exactly how absurd and infuriating it is when somebody tells you you’re not supposed to be gay. Even worse, it’s usually some jerk who could never understand what you’re going through, and is just talking from some religious point of view and doesn’t care what you’ve been through.

But that’s not me. I’ve been where you are. I’ve had the same feelings. So why would I say that homosexuality isn’t the answer?

I want to challenge your assumptions. After all, why wouldn't a same-sex attracted person’s deepest needs be met by embracing homosexuality?

I told you my first boyfriend left me a month after we got together. The last time I saw him, he said something that frightened and hurt me. I was crying a lot but he didn’t seem to be upset at all. Heartbroken, I asked him why he seemed to show no emotion.

“I’ve been out longer than you,” he told me. “I’ve been with lots of guys, and so will you. After you've broken up a few more times, it will stop hurting."

I was shocked. This was my father’s unfair stereotype about gays, and here it was coming out of my (now ex) boyfriend’s mouth! I was angry, but as I got deeper into the gay community, I found that most—if not all—of the gay-identified men I met lived according to these words.

Soon I found myself living the same way. There were a lot of gay guys I was attracted to, and I got into relationships quickly. I would feel intense infatuation, but it would soon wear off. Sometimes the other guy became disinterested in me first, and left.

At first I hated the idea of anonymous sex, but when a man accosted me at the gym, it kind of felt good. When I would get lonely, I found myself tempted to get that quick, easy connection again.

Why was my life slipping into this pattern? I just wanted to fall in love and have a family, and I thought being “out” was supposed to make that easier. It didn’t look like things were headed that way. Why?

Read the rest of this article >>

In The Coloradoan

I did this interview right before Thanksgiving.

Here are my quotes in the article Altered Orientation by Kelli Lackett

 

... Randy Thomas said mainstream mental health organizations fail to acknowledge that people who have changed their homosexual desires exist.

Thomas is membership director of Exodus International, a network of ministries promoting “freedom from homosexuality” through Christian faith. In his 20s, he identified himself as a gay man, but in the past 14 years, he says his identity and desires have changed.

He spent time at an Exodus ministry in Texas and is predominantly attracted to women and has a girlfriend of 4½ months.

“Today (same-sex desire) is like an annoying fly. I can easily dispel temptation,” he said.

“The APA can say what they need to say, but the reality is change is possible and it’s happening every day,” Thomas said. “Our right to self-determination should be respected. ...

Kelli asked good questions and I appreciate the balance she put into the article.

Come Out!

From Alan Chambers' blog:

I am thankful for the climate of openness that has been created by those in the gay community who have and do advocate being honest over living in secrecy with regards to one's sexuality.  Lest you misunderstand me, I am not saying that I believe people should identify as gay or lesbian or that either labels are congruent with biblical standards.  However, I do firmly believe that the gay community has upstaged the Christian community on the moral value of honesty where "coming out" is concerned.

I did an interview this morning with a major Christian magazine and made the comment, "It is time for the leaders within the Christian community who are struggling with any type of sexual, chemical or emotional temptation to be honest about that." The reporter responded by asking, "What if the pastor is struggling with something that is taboo, like homosexuality?"

In my opinion there shouldn't be anything that we can't talk about or confess in church and among other believers.  A pastor who struggles with unwanted same-sex attractions shouldn't be shamed by us into secrecy.  Neither should such a pastor fall prey to that shame and decide to be secretive.  Where there is no honesty sin thrives!

Read the rest of this post >>

PFOX Flier Creates Controversy at a Maryland High School

From the local NBC affiliate--

SILVER SPRING, Md. -- A flier from a group called Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays and Gays, or PFOX, has started a controversy in Silver Spring.The flier was handed out during homeroom to students at Montgomery Blair High School . . . Gay students at the high school said the group behind it is homophobic.

The school said it had no choice but to pass it out. PFOX says it reaches out to gay teens offering unconditional love and support to homosexuals who want to become straight. Promoting a way out of a gay lifestyle, the nonprofit group offers to expose teenagers to "ex-gay" people.

"What we're saying is that, if you have unwanted same-sex attraction -- and there is a difference -- then there are alternatives, and homosexual feelings can be overcome," said Regina Griggs of PFOX.

The one-page handout taken home by hundreds and thrown out by others created a firestorm on campus.

Administrators, faculty and students quickly blasted the group as an anti-gay, homophobic organization.PFOX claims it is a resource for students.

Read the rest of this article >>

As a formerly gay-identified individual, I am familiar with the one-sided viewpoint of sexuality that's prevalent in the public school system. In high school, I was encouraged to embrace homosexuality not only by my peers, but also by members of the faculty who promoted that belief through their classroom teachings, and even in personal conversations with me.

In the beginning of my struggle, I didn't want to be gay; I wanted my life to be in harmony with my faith, and I wanted to accept myself as another one of the guys. Unfortunately, I never heard anything about the thousands of people who are living free of their once life-dominating same-sex attractions. I know my teens and early twenties would have been vastly different if I had just heard the truth a little sooner.

While those like the staff and faculty of this particular school, who believe change isn't possible, are entitled to have and express their opinions, they should not be entitled to silence those of others. Claiming to be against discrimination, they willfully seek to discriminate against any viewpoint that doesn't agree with their own. They negate not only faith, but the lives and stories of those of us who have experienced change. Worse yet, they seek exclusive rights to propogate their views on sexuality to a captive audience of young people.

I commend PFOX for speaking the truth despite the names and accusations hurled at them. I pray that their work--and ours--will continue to be protected, and will cause the message of freedom to reach the minds and hearts of struggling people sooner, to spare them the grief of a lifestyle that doesn't offer what they're looking for.

Exodus Youth Releases Outreach Guide

Exodus Youth has just released its latest resource in the Truth and Tolerance series: the Outreach Guide. This booklet is a comprehensive resource for reaching out to LGBT-identified youth and young adults with the truth and grace that is only found in Jesus Christ.

The Outreach Guide is for youth groups, Christian clubs and student organizations who are looking for a way to speak Biblical truth about sexuality while also befriending, loving and sharing Christ with those who are struggling with or embracing homosexuality, bisexuality or transgenderism.

The Guide contains outlines for various types of events, tips for sharing and communicating well, important legal information, and more. Click here to find out how to get this FREE resource.

"Allies, Too" Press Release

        Orlando, FL- The world's largest outreach to those desiring freedom from homosexuality is launching its first national campaign to promote truth, authentic tolerance and safety in schools across America. The Allies, Too campaign offers an approach to these issues that both nonreligious students as well of students of faith can embrace.  To learn more about Exodus Youth: www.exodusyouth.net To learn more about Exodus: www.exodus.to        

        Allies, Too comes amid recent national dialogue about improving school safety and preventing bullying and harassment among students. The Bush administration addressed these issues at last week's summit on school violence.        

        Allies, Too offers resources for students, teachers and youth leaders and was created as an alternative to the Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network's (GLSEN) Ally Week being held this week. Students participating in Ally Week are required to sign a pledge promising to "actively support safer school efforts" promoted by GLSEN - an organization that often promotes policies and information that conflict with Christian beliefs about sexuality.        

        "We want students to know that you do not have to drop your personal faith at the school door in order to promote compassion and dignity among your peers," said Scott Davis, Director of Exodus Youth. "Authentic tolerance includes diverse beliefs and opinions and a healthy environment in which to discuss them.       

        "We hear from hundreds of students grappling with their sexuality who have been further isolated because of the hurtful words of their peers," said Davis. "We want schools to be a safe place and to encourage caring individuals to be a safe place for these young people in churches and in other youth forums across America."       

        Exodus Youth is a division of Exodus International that helps teens and young adults struggling with unwanted same-sex attraction to find life and healing in Christ. Exodus Youth offers a variety of resources to youth as well as training and education for youth leaders. Exodus Youth has recently released the "Truth and Tolerance Leader's Guide" - a comprehensive booklet aimed at helping youth leaders address homosexuality in a group setting and minister to young people as well.        

        To learn more about Exodus Youth: www.exodusyouth.net

Boston Herald Reporter Chuckles Over Change

***Welcome PJ Media Readers***

Yesterday I was taking notes at the press conference for the Liberty Sunday Simulcast.  As fortune would have it, I sat behind a reporter and a photographer for The Boston Herald.  She was leafing through the biographies of all the speakers, I noticed that she stopped on the biography for Exodus President Alan Chambers.  She leaned over to the photographer, pointed to his biography, said with a slight grin, "ex-gays..." and they both had a slight chuckle that made it appear they thought Exodus was a joke.

After the press conference, David Fountain ( Exodus Conference Director ), not having known what I had witnessed went up and offered the reporter our information piece and she quickly said "no thank you."

Given the chuckling I witnessed earlier ... one might think that she doesn't have much respect for our beliefs and the truth behind our testimony.

If I am going to be held accountable to practice what I preach, which I do not mind, I would hope reporters would be held  accountable for their actions as well.  The Society of Professional Journalists* say, "Seek Truth and Report It."  Here is the preamble to their Code of Ethics:

Members of the Society of Professional Journalists believe that public enlightenment is the forerunner of justice and the foundation of democracy. The duty of the journalist is to further those ends by seeking truth and providing a fair and comprehensive account of events and issues. Conscientious journalists from all media and specialties strive to serve the public with thoroughness and honesty. Professional integrity is the cornerstone of a journalist's credibility. Members of the Society share a dedication to ethical behavior and adopt this code to declare the Society's principles and standards of practice.

Whether the above mentioned reporter believed we were truly "ex-gay" or worthy of being laughed at really isn't the point.  The Exodus message was a major element of the press conference yesterday and this reporter laughed at our presence and refused our information.  This dismissal of our message was not fair, comprehensive or truthful to the entirety of the event.

People like Alan, including myself, are not gay whether the Boston Herald tolerates that fact or not.  Diversity and tolerance includes people like us.  If that fact is denied, then true diversity and/or tolerance is not displayed.  We have a place in the public square whether media outlets choose to pay attention and be coscientious to report the whole story or not.

I have invited this reporter to read this post and will let you know if I get any feedback.  It is my genuine hope that my observations of her actions are wrong.

---
* I don't know if this reporter belongs to, or ascribes to the same beliefs as the SPJ or not.

Liberty Sunday Press Conference

Who: Tony Perkins (Family Research Council), Alan Chambers (Exodus), Pastor Pendleton (Tremont Temple Baptist Church), David Parker, Robert Wirthlin, Kris Mineau (Massachusetts Family Institute), Bishop Harry Jackson (Hope Christian Church).

What: Press conference concerning Liberty Sunday Simulcast

When: 3:00 pm EDT, October 15, 2006

Where: Tremont Temple Baptist Church

Disclaimer: The following is simply notes and paraphrasing I (Randy) wrote down during the press conference.  Direct quotes are properly noted within the text.  Everything else is paraphrased and spring from my understanding of what the presenters said.

First up Tony Perkins with the Family Research Council.  Tony shares that he was very excited about tonight's simulcast.  the reason they chose Boston is because same sex marriage started in this state and what we see in its wake is the loss of religious freedom.  As they have condoned same sex marriage, the state condemns Christian expression in the public square.  He said that this press conference and the simulcast won't be just about organizational spokespersons.  The message will be brought by the people who have been detrimentally affected by the decision of four judges in Massachusetts.  A decision that is setting a dangerous precedent and conflict around the country.

Dr. Ray Pendleton Pastor at Tremont Temple Baptist Church stated, "We think it is important to uphold what is best for the culture and the country.  We want to speak what is truth, in love."

Kris Mineau, heads up Massachusetts Family Institute said something to the effect of tonight's events will help emphasize the point for the Mass legislature should finally allow the people of Massachusetts to speak for themselves instead of unelected judges ignoring the will of the people and speaking for them.

David Parker was up next.  His son, when  in kindergarten was given a diversity book-bag that indoctrinates children with beliefs about homosexuality that are  contrary to the beliefs of the parents and the welfare of these five year olds.  The rights of parents are being trampled for the rights of a rampant gay agenda.

David Parker quotes Robert Scutch,  the author of pro-gay children's book, "Who's a Family?" put in the "diversity book-bag":  Scutch states, "I wrote the book for children before they know that there is any other way." 

David Parker continues, that the gay agenda is being promoted non-stop in many ways;  Day of Silence, Coming Out Day, High School students going to lower grades to talk about coming out and resources being made available to grade school and beyond.  Mr. Parker simply wants parents to be notified and given their right to opt out.  The Lexington school system will not notify parents.  Mr. Parker's conclusion is that where Religious liberty is compromised all liberties are compromised.  Parents need to take a stand for children around the country.  The ACLU is trampling on religious freedom and parents by helping the school system against the parents.

Rob Wirthlin is the father of a seven year old who, without Mr. Wirthlin's knowledge or consent, was read a book by his second grade teacher called King and King which is about romantic love between two princes who eventually marry. The Wirthlin's asked the teacher for a meeting but the night before that meeting, the principal called and intimated that the Wirthlin's had ulterior motives and she was gong to be there whether they wanted her to be there or not.  The Principal said that the Teacher said she chose the book specifically because she felt it was something that the little boys could relate too.    Mr. Wirthlin says, "I am standing for parents rights. Parents should be the ones who decide when where and how to approach these subjects with their very own children."

Tony Perkins announces Freedom Watch.  As long as liberty is in danger... FRC will keep watch and fight for liberty.

Alan Chambers was next.  Tony said that Alan was, "the most controversial speaker."  He said Exodus takes a message of hope across the country. There is a message of hope for the homosexual who wants to find freedom from homosexuality.   Tony said, "Those who are the trumpeters of tolerance have little tolerance for Alan's message."  Alan shared about how religious liberty is in danger as evidenced by the huge protest at last year's Love Won Out Conference at Tremont Temple Baptist church.  Close to two thousand people screamed, among other things, "Shut down Focus On The Family!" "Shut down Dr. Dobson!" "Shut down ex-gays!" "Shut down Tremont Temple!" no call for tolerance, just a desire to impose silence against those that disagree with the gay activists.  While it is important to fight for the preservation of religious liberties and important social issues, we must also have grace and compassion.  We must provide hope and help for those seeking freedom from homosexuality.

Tony Perkins says that the opponents say that religious conservatives use gay issues as wedge issues but Tony calls them a bridge issue.  There is no other issue (gay agenda) that has brought modern Christians together so well.  One of the side benefits of this unnecessary battle is an increasingly colorblind church.

Bishop Harry Jackson is the senior pastor of Hope Christian Church.  He gave a stirring history of black community struggling and leading the way to liberty. He states that the black pulpit in America has actually been the engine for the black community.  Black Pastors deserve to be heard and to have their voices count.  In the mid-term election you are going to see a growing union in the church and that is going to change the tide and turn back the gay agenda.  More than ever before you are going to see Values Voters show up and make a difference in America.

Afterward, the media questions were basic fact finding and not much else to report except one incident that deserves it's very own post.

Before closing this post however, I wanted to say that all the presenters were very calm, humble and eloquent.  My notes do not do them justice.  I also met Mr. Parker and Mr. Wirthlin after the press conference and I have to tell you, they are two very protective, humble and loving Dad's.  They were not activists before the Lexington School Board decided to usurp their parental rights but now that this school board has forced the fight... they will do whatever it takes to protect their children.  I genuinely enjoyed meeting these two men.

Also at the press conference, I met John Schroeder with Blogotional and Joe Carter with Evangelical Outpost.  These guys are serious bloggers and you really should check out their blogs on a regular basis. I truly enjoyed meeting them and discussing Christians, politics and blogging!  They were a lot of fun to meet.

Exodus Celebrates National Coming Out of Homosexuality Day

The world's largest outreach to those desiring freedom from homosexuality is today celebrating the eleventh annual National Coming Out of Homosexuality Day — a day to honor the changed lives of thousands of men and women who formerly identified themselves as gay.    

"As one of thousands who have experienced change, I know that there is life beyond homosexuality," said Alan Chambers, President of Exodus International. "A way out of the isolation and emptiness that many experience in gay life is available to anyone."

Chambers notes that the ex-gay movement is growing and reaching greater, more diverse audiences. "We continue to see a greater demand for the message of hope and change. The growth within our network as well as the increase in calls from those desiring our help demonstrate that many want more than the same tired 'born-gay' mantra that our culture has fed them. Today, we celebrate the reality of changed lives and look toward more opportunities to share this truth."

       

Exodus International has added education and training programs for pastors, church leaders and youth workers desiring to approach this issue with compassion and biblical truth. Since its inception in 1976, the organization has grown to include more than 150 member agencies, therapists and churches within its network that offer help to the over 400,000 people who contact them each year.

Christian Post Reports on "Allies, Too"

From The Christian Post:

Ally Week is promoted by Gay-Straight Alliance clubs in high schools nationwide for the purpose of a safer school environment. The national week was launched last year to create allies to put an end to anti-LGBT bullying and harassment in schools. Exodus Youth, however, announced the new "Allies, Too" movement to support the same effort of safer schools but for Christian students...

At the launch of Ally Week last year, conservative Christian group the American Family Association had criticized it as a "doorway" for Gay-Straight Alliance clubs to recruit fellow students.

Victoria Cobb, executive director of the Family Foundation of Virginia had called the campaign an "assault on our values by the homosexual community through our public schools."

While concerns were raised among Christian groups and parents, "Allies, Too" was newly formed this year to call Christian students to be an ally too during the week (Oct. 15-21) and speak out in solidarity with the goal of making schools safe while still taking a stand for God's design for sexuality. As thousands of Christian students will have the chance to show the love of Christ to their peers, the campaign will seek to create a harassment-free place for students regardless of beliefs or backgrounds.

Read the Full Article >>

GLSEN Founder's Memoir Describes Painful Upbringing

GSLEN founder Kevin Jennings recently published his Memoir, Mama's Boy, Preacher's Son. In it, he describes an upbringing not unlike what is described by many of the same-sex-attracted men who come to Exodus ministries seeking freedom. The New York Blade, a gay newspaper, reports:

Jennings writes that when his father died on Jennings' eighth birthday, he learned what is expected of a man. At the funeral, as his mother continuously faints, Jennings starts to cry.

"Don't cry," his brother admonishes him. "Be a man. Don't be a faggot."

"Faggot" and "queer" are terms Jennings heard throughout his childhood from the mouths of his bigoted family members and bullies who teased him in school.

Although his mother reminded Jennings throughout his childhood that he was not wanted, their relationship becomes the book's focus...

Did Jennings really learn what manhood is about on that awful day? Or did he learn what his brother--who was also hurting deeply--thought men were supposed to do?

Many of us who have struggled with same-sex attraction were unfairly judged this way, shamed as different from the time we were small children. Automatically, we build a maze of defenses around ourselves, and this is not a foundation upon which our true identity as men can be built.

It's sad that Jennings believed in the names others called him, and let the pain and rejection of his past dictate his identity. It's also sad that he now influences countless young people to do the same. Sometimes I can't understand why homosexuality is so widely accepted when it is so often and so obviously rooted in pain.

I'm grateful that Jesus Christ is at work in my heart and in my life, so that my destiny is defined by his pain and not mine. That's why I have a heart for the work of Exodus; it's just another facet of the Good News.

Exodus Church Network at the Grassroots

Check out what Anita has to say about the Exodus Church Network.

I pray many more will join Anita in spreading the word.

GLSEN Finally Admits that Identity is a Choice

from an article at GLSEN's website entitled "Talking the Talk: A Glossary of LGBT Terminology and Match-up Game" http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/library/record/1278.html

Sexual Identity: This is how we perceive and what we call ourselves. Such labels include “lesbian,” “gay,” “bisexual,” “bi,” “queer,” “questioning,” “heterosexual,” “straight,” and others. Sexual Identity evolves through a developmental process that varies depending on the individual. Our sexual behavior and how we define ourselves (identity) can be chosen. Though some people claim their sexual orientation is also a choice, for others this does not seem to be the case. (emphasis added)

Wait just a minute... did they just say that identity is a choice and indirectly infer that some people claim orientation is a choice?  ... That identity is a developmental process? Wow.

We at Exodus know that people struggling with same sex attraction did not choose to struggle with same sex attraction and yet people can choose by what facet of their lives they want to identify with.  For myself it is Christian.  Also, while people don't choose to struggle with same sex attraction, we certainly can choose to pursue re-orientation or "overcome" said attractions by pursuing holiness.  Healthy heterosexuality is a by-product of our journey toward holiness that occurrs on varying levels for different people.  Even so, to go from a gay-centric relational paradigm to a Christ-centered one is HUGE change regardless of sexual orientation shift (or lack thereof.)

I think perhaps many in the gay activist community are realizing that change is possible and people are looking for options aside from a gay-centric worldview.  They are changing their language and message to hold on to a base that is increasingly frustrated with a narrow view of those dealing with same sex attraction having to idenitfy as "gay."

The difference is they are holding open the "options" of identity which still limit a person's choice to what "we (inference the gay identified community) call ourselves" and never question the morality or transcendant needs of why a human desires to even have a solid identity.  It would appear that their approach is a self-sufficient option list for people to pick from, that still empower them through a sense of community, instead of an Inspired self-awareness.

Exodus is a Christian organization and we believe that every human soul bears the image of God.  We, like Him, want to be known by Him and to know others.  We bear His image most strikingly in the way that we carry out our relationships.  He is a relational God and He created us to be relational.  Sexuality is just one of many components of our relational lives and we choose to place it in proper context and not limit our identity to be based only on who we are sexually attracted too or to what we may be feeling at the moment.

It is my hope that the gay activist community will open their minds to tolerate a morality they may not agree with in recognition of the fact that not everyone who has same sex attraction are limited to the above list of gay centric optional identities.

Exodus Applauds Archbishop of Canterbury's U-turn on Homosexuality

This Press Release went out last night.

Exodus Applauds Archbishop of Canterbury's U-turn on Homosexuality

Orlando, FL- August 31, 2006 The world's largest outreach to those desiring freedom from homosexuality is praising the Archbishop of Canterbury's seemingly public reversal of his position on homosexuality. Previously supportive of homosexual relationships, Archbishop Rowan Williams said in an interview