Ex Librum

Just in time for post-Pride:Former leaders of ex-gay ministry in U.S. apologize for "bringing harm"

Three former leaders of an international ministry that counsels gays to change their sexual orientation apologized for their efforts, saying that though they acted sincerely, their message had caused isolation, shame and fear.

The former leaders of the interdenominational Christian organization Exodus International said Wednesday they had all, over time, become disillusioned with the group's ideas and concerned about what they described as the wrenching human toll of such gay conversion efforts.

"Some who heard our message were compelled to try to change an integral part of themselves, bringing harm to themselves and their families," the three, including former Exodus co-founder Michael Bussee, said in a joint written statement presented at a news conference in Hollywood. "Although we acted in good faith, we have since witnessed the isolation, shame, fear and loss of faith that this message creates."

The news conference was held in a courtyard outside an office of the Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Center. It was timed to coincide with the opening of Exodus' annual conference, which is being held this week at Concordia University in Irvine and expected to draw about 1,000 people.

We all recall the stories of John Paulk and other ex-gays who "slipped." But did you know that I turned John Paulk straight? Well, not exactly. He hit on me at a gay bar when I was as Ohio State. I spurned him, the poor thing. I know, breaking hearts nationwide...

My favorite ex-ex-gay has got to be Ross Hayduk. After coming out and surviving the Exodus treatment, he moved to San Francisco, did a lot of work with Team San Francisco, competed in a few Gay Games in track and then powerlifting, and is now a Sister of Perpetual Indulgence! He's included in the documentary, Be Real. I'd say he's made up for gay time lost.