May 23, 2012

Exodus International Press Release May 23, 2012:

Christian Group Transcends Political Debate to Help the Church Reach People with Same-Sex Attraction

Orlando, Fla. – The furor over same-sex marriage and homosexuality has not abated in recent days as commentators continue to speak about President Obama’s remarks, legislation to ban so called gay-to-straight therapy in California, and the fallout from North Carolina’s marriage vote.

Alan Chambers, president of the 36-year-old Exodus International said, “As usual, the spotlight is shining on the furthest extremes currently engaged in a public fight. I believe it’s time for all of us to focus on the people beyond the political debate.”

While a minority of people such as North Carolina pastor Charles Worley represent the outdated and homophobic fringe of Christianity and should not be taken seriously, excellent churches like National Community Church in Washington, D.C. are drawing approximately 200 people each week to Ebenezer’s Coffee House. These individuals gather to thoughtfully discuss how the church can better care for people with same-sex attractions (SSA), those inside and outside of the church.

In the midst of the chaos and tired culture war mentality, Exodus International continues to serve a fast growing population of the Church that is ready to end the war and reach out in compassion to people who come to them for answers.

“Exodus is here to provide support to individuals with SSA who want to be faithful in their pursuit of living out a biblical sexual ethic,” said Chambers. “We encourage parents who desire to be faithful to their values to also love their gay or lesbian child unconditionally despite having differing worldviews. Finally we are here to help churches looking for ways to reach out to people in their congregations or across the divide to people in their communities.”

Exodus is a gospel-centric organization that seeks first and foremost to equip the Church to be the primary outreach to, and support for, individuals and families impacted by SSA. Exodus serves as an umbrella group for 260 organizations and churches.

Alan Chambers and other Exodus leaders are available for interviews. They are also available to share their personal stories. To arrange for an interview, please call the Exodus Press Office at (407) 599-6872 or (321) 279-8965 or email press@exodusinternational.org.