June 17, 2011

Excerpt from Andrea’s blog: “Earlier this week I attended and spoke at the Core Issues conference in Belfast. The event explored issues surrounding homosexuality with a particular focus on reparative therapy, which helps those with unwanted feelings of same-sex attraction.” …

“My turn came to speak in the evening. A group of about 50 homosexual rights activists who had picketed the event were invited in to hear my talk. It wasn’t long before some of them voiced their disapproval and I had to quickly adapt my material in response to the chorus of jeers and heckles.”

“Homosexual rights campaigners get very angry with the idea of homosexual practice as sin, and very angry at the idea of reparative therapy – which rests on the idea that people can change if they want to and are motivated to do so. It is important to note that it is a voluntary therapy – no one is forced to undergo the therapy and no one is forced to change against their will. Similarly, no one can coerce anyone into faith. Jesus died for each one of us but it is up to us to accept His offer of forgiveness and salvation.”

“This point seems to be lost on those who would seek to silence any voice that suggests we need to turn away from sin or that sexual orientation can be changed. The call for an open and honest debate on the issue of homosexuality by these campaigners rings hollow when those who suggest that change is possible are shouted down and harried out of the public space.”

“Honest debate requires that a hearing be given to all views, not just those in agreement with politically correct opinion.”

“It’s strange that the same people who argue that sexual orientation can’t be changed also argue that gender can be changed. Yet the testimonies of former homosexuals speak clearly of how change is possible.”

The full text of Andrea’s statement can be found at http://www.christianconcern.com/blog/homosexuals-can-change-let%E2%80%99s-speak-the-truth-in-love