...out of business...so the Church can do it's JOB!
More reflections on this in the days to come! Blessings, Kenny
Copied from the Exodus International website:
JUNE 19, 2013 BY EXODUS INTERNATIONAL
Exodus International to Shut Down
Thirty-seven-year-old ministry for those with same-sex attraction marks its last national conference
Irvine, Calif. (June 19, 2013) — Exodus International, the oldest and
largest Christian ministry dealing with faith and homosexuality
announced tonight that it’s closing its doors after three-plus decades
of ministry. The Board of Directors reached a decision after a year of
dialogue and prayer about the organization’s place in a changing
culture.
“We’re not negating the ways God used Exodus to
positively affect thousands of people, but a new generation of
Christians is looking for change – and they want to be heard,” Tony
Moore, Board member of Exodus. The message came less than a day after
Exodus released a statement apologizing (www.exodusinternational.org/apology) to the gay community for years of undue judgment by the organization and the Christian Church as a whole.
“Exodus is an institution in the conservative Christian world, but
we’ve ceased to be a living, breathing organism,” said Alan Chambers,
President of Exodus. “For quite some time we’ve been imprisoned in a
worldview that’s neither honoring toward our fellow human beings, nor
biblical.”
Chambers continued: “From a Judeo-Christian
perspective, gay, straight or otherwise, we’re all prodigal sons and
daughters. Exodus International is the prodigal’s older brother, trying
to impose its will on God’s promises, and make judgments on who’s worthy
of His Kingdom. God is calling us to be the Father – to welcome
everyone, to love unhindered.”
For these reasons, the Board of
Directors unanimously voted to close Exodus International and begin a
separate ministry. “This is a new season of ministry, to a new
generation,” said Chambers. “Our goals are to reduce fear
(reducefear.org), and come alongside churches to become safe, welcoming,
and mutually transforming communities.”
Local affiliated ministries, which have always been autonomous, will continue, but not under the name or umbrella of Exodus.
2 comments:
I'd like to know your thoughts on this, Kenny. It really hit me. For me, Exodus has been a great blessing. I think I understand where they're coming from but at the same time I wonder if they're selling out. I'm still processing my thoughts. What about you? How are you feeling and what are you thinking about it all?
Mixed feelings. This ministry has been instrumental in offering hope to those struggling. Mostly becaue they hear truth, sometimes for the first time ever, about theselves...and God's purpose for their lives. I am fearful that the church is not ready for this role. Personally, my experience has seen the church "shoot their wounded". Ready or not I suppose it will be same as sending your kids out into the world, hopefull you have equipped them to fulfill their destiny, love God and do His work in the kingdom. I pray the church has the will and fortitude to love and embrace those who are isolated and alone.
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