Focus on the Family will bring its Love Won Out
conference to Louisville on April 16, to counter the media-saturating
message that homosexuality is inborn and unchangeable. The one-day event,
led primarily by those who have left homosexuality themselves, is designed
to educate and equip attendees on the issues surrounding homosexuality and
provide hope for those struggling – and those whose loved ones struggle –
with unwanted same-sex attractions.
"Thousands of men and women know firsthand that there is a
way out of unwanted homosexuality," said Mike Haley, a former homosexual
and Love Won Out conference host, who recently authored the book
101 Frequently Asked Questions About Homosexuality. Haley is
concerned about the continued propagation of "homosexuality is innate and
normal" rhetoric by pro-gay activists and the mainstream media.
"I am living proof that change can happen," said Melissa
Fryrear, Love Won Out speaker and a former lesbian. She continued,
"Although the issues of homosexuality and same-sex marriage are becoming
increasingly politicized in our culture, Love Won Out’s message
continues to focus on the hope and love that is found in Jesus Christ."
To address the topic of same-sex marriage and equality
under the law, Focus on the Family Vice President and
Psychologist-in-Residence Dr. Bill Maier will present "Straight Thinking on
Gay Marriage," a breakout session recently added to the Love Won Out
lineup.
"It is imperative that Christians understand the ethical
and legal implications of same-sex marriage," Maier said. "Our last great
untested social experiment – no-fault divorce – has left millions of broken
lives in its wake, particularly the lives of the children involved. Our
society must cautiously examine the ramifications of re-defining marriage.
If we don’t, we may rush headlong into another social experiment that will
wreak even more devastation on America’s children."
Joseph Nicolosi, Ph.D., president of the National
Association of Research and Therapy of Homosexuality, will present at the
Louisville conference. Other speakers include Dick Carpenter, Ph.D., a
veteran teacher, principal and college professor; Joe Dallas, a former
staff member of the pro-gay Metropolitan Community Church, who now works
with men and women struggling with unwanted homosexuality; and Alan
Chambers, president of Exodus International, a ministry to those effected
by unwanted homosexuality and their families.
Southeast Christian Church in Louisville will host the
all-day conference. Since its inception in 1998, Love Won Out has
shared its message with more than 23,000 people in 29 cities
internationally. Louisville marks the 32nd presentation of Focus on the
Family’s Love Won Out conference.