John Paulk Apologizes for Ex-Gay Gospel

[Soulless65]

John Paulk, a Portland caterer and former poster boy for the ex-gay movement, renounced his past in a recent interview with PQ Monthly (read the exclusive here). Today, Paulk issued a formal apology via a press release distributed by GLAAD.

Paulk’s apology:

“For the better part of ten years, I was an advocate and spokesman for what’s known as the “ex-gay movement,” where we declared that sexual orientation could be changed through a close-knit relationship with God, intensive therapy and strong determination. At the time, I truly believed that it would happen. And while many things in my life did change as a Christian, my sexual orientation did not.

So in 2003, I left the public ministry and gave up my role as a spokesman for the “ex-gay movement.” I began a new journey. In the decade since, my beliefs have changed. Today, I do not consider myself “ex-gay” and I no longer support or promote the movement. Please allow me to be clear: I do not believe that reparative therapy changes sexual orientation; in fact, it does great harm to many people.

I know that countless people were harmed by things I said and did in the past, Parents, families, and their loved ones were negatively impacted by the notion of reparative therapy and the message of change. I am truly, truly sorry for the pain I have caused.

From the bottom of my heart I wish I could take back my words and actions that caused anger, depression, guilt and hopelessness. In their place I want to extend love, hope, tenderness, joy and the truth that gay people are loved by God.

Today, I see LGBT people for who they are–beloved, cherished children of God. I offer my most sincere and heartfelt apology to men, women, and especially children and teens who felt unlovable, unworthy, shamed or thrown away by God or the church.

I want to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who encouraged me to take this initial step of transparency. Even while promoting “ex-gay” programs, there were those who called me on my own words and actions. I’m sure I didn’t appreciate it at the time, but they have helped me to realize this truth about who I am.

This is a life transition that has been and will continue to be, challenging. Sadly, my marriage of 20 years is in the process of ending. I want to take the time to make sure my next actions come from a place of truth and authenticity. Therefore, I’m drastically limiting my public engagement until my own personal life can be settled. After that I eagerly anticipate giving back to the community.

Finally, I know there are still accounts of my “ex-gay” testimony out there being publicized by various groups, including two books that I wrote about my journey. I don’t get any royalties from these publications, and haven’t since I left the ministry nearly ten years ago. I discourage anyone from purchasing and selling these books or promoting my “ex-gay” story because they do not reflect who I am now or what I believe today.”

Interesting article isn't

John Paulk Apologizes for Ex-Gay Gospel, Wife Says She'll Pray for Him

 

[Kooshdakhaa]

I guess he's decided to pick and choose what parts of the Bible he wants to believe. That's fine, just be honest with yourself about what you're doing. If you want to participate in a gay lifestyle, perhaps Christianity based on the Holy Bible is not the best choice for you.

I just love people who think things are okay when they think them, but when they change their mind they think everybody should change their minds also.

In other words, gay-bashing was okay when he did it, but it's not okay now. Hypocrite.

 

[jwoodie]

His inclusion of "bisexual" people completely undermines his "conversion" to genetic predetermination.

 

[Political Junky]

His letter reflects what many "ex-gays" have said upon leaving such programs .. Good for him.

 

[Katzndogz]

There is no such thing as ex-gay, just like there is no such thing as ex-heterosexual.

There might be men who were never gay, but were convinced they were by pressure from other gays when they were young. But they were never really gay.