Paraprofessional Christian ministries for sexual behavior and same-sex identity concerns.

Paraprofessional Christian ministries for sexual behavior and same-sex identity concerns have grown significantly in recent years. Some ministries are affiliated with organizations that have specific standards for affiliation; others are independent. Some emphasize change of sexual orientation; others promote change of behavior and chastity. Some ministries provide services exclusively to homosexuals; others provide resources to homosexuals and heterosexuals alike. This paper reviews similarities and differences among paraprofessional Christian ministries for persons struggling with sexual behaviors and same-sex identity concerns. Similarities and differences are related to (a) mission/vision, (b) view of etiology, (c) method of intervention, (d) format, and (e) definition of success. Christian ministries include Exodus International-affiliated ministries, independent Christian ministries, Homosexuals Anonymous, and Courage. Impressions from the review of the various Christian ministries are also offered, inc luding recommendations for making appropriate referrals.

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Paraprofessional Christian ministry groups have figured prominently in national debates about homosexuality. Their very existence flies in the face of those who reject any response to homosexuality that is not completely affirming. They are Christian ministries, in that they promote themselves as places where Christian values and normative claims lay a foundation for the ministry provided therein. They are not professional mental health services, although they often provide referrals to professionals. They are paraprofessional ministries, and their leaders are pastors, licensed and non-licensed clinicians, lay persons, and others, many of whom struggled with homosexuality themselves. (1) As we shall see in detail, some ministry groups focus on homosexuality; others address much broader issues related to human sexuality and provide services to heterosexuals and homosexuals alike. Some focus on those who are going through a difficult time; others provide ministries to friends and family members.

Many licensed mental health professionals know very little about these Christian ministry groups. The purpose of this paper is to introduce the reader to four major categories of paraprofessional Christian ministries for homosexuality or other sexual behavior concerns. The four major categories are Exodus International-affiliated ministries, independent Christian ministries, Homosexuals Anonymous chapters, and Courage chapters. There are many similarities among ministry groups, but there are also important differences, including between group differences (e.g., independent ministry groups as compared to Courage chapters) and within group differences (e.g., differences found among Exodus-affiliated ministry groups), some of which will be highlighted throughout this review.

PARAPROFESSIONAL CHRISTIAN MINISTRIES

Exodus-International Affiliated Ministries

Exodus is a not-for profit, interdenominational organization that began in 1976 and is the largest umbrella organization for Christian ministries to people who are struggling with sexual behavior or sexual identity concerns. At present, Exodus' North American network includes 115 ministries in 39 states, with 3 additional ministries in Canada. Exodus also extends worldwide, with ministries in several countries in Europe and Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Japan, and Singapore (see Appendix A).

Applicants are those ministry groups that are working toward affiliation with Exodus. To become a member of an Exodus referral ministry, a ministry must (a) agree with the doctrinal and policy statements of Exodus, (b) be in existence for a minimum of 2 years, (c) have a governing board that can change or remove a leader/director as needed, (d) have a leader/director who has not been involved in immoral sexual behavior for a minimum of 2 years, (e) have a leader/director who attends the national conference every three years, and (f) have a leader/director who is actively involved in a local church.

Mission/Vision. The vision of Exodus International is "proclaiming freedom from homosexuality by offering support, instruction and compassion for those who desire to change" (http://www.exodusintl.org). The mission of Exodus is "to equip and unite Christian agencies and individuals to effectively communicate the message of liberation from homosexuality, as well as support individuals facing the reality of a homosexual loved one" (http://www.exodusintl.org). Exodus sees itself as articulating a Christian perspective that neither rejects homosexual persons nor embraces a "gay" identity.

As aforementioned, there are about 115 Exodus affiliated ministries across the U.S., and we received information from 34 of these affiliated ministries. Although these ministries espouse similar views as Exodus and must be in agreement with the Exodus doctrinal and policy statements, there is diversity amongst the affiliated ministries in regard to mission anti vision. Some ministries within the Exodus network focus solely on educating individuals, churches, and communities, while others offer various means of psychological and spiritual care. Terms such as restoration, reconciliation, freedom, choice, and encouragement encapsulate the mission and vision statements of the various Exodus affiliated ministries.

Etiology. Although there is no one clear statement concerning the etiology of homosexuality for all persons, Exodus literature points towards various emotional hurts and deficits as playing a prominent role in the etiology of same-sex attraction. Although these deficits are not specified, they suggest that homosexuality is more of a psychological and spiritual issue, shaped in many ways by one's environment (nurture) rather than caused by one's genes or other predominantly biological variables (nature).

Prodigal Ministries, an Exodus affiliate in Ohio, states that "homosexual behavior is an attempt to fulfill normal, legitimate needs for love, acceptance and identity through sexual intimacy with someone of the same sex. The deepest root of homosexuality is a break in relational bonds, which produces a lack of a sense of belonging, lack of affirmation and gender inferiority" (http://w3.goodnews.net/~prodigal). The analogy of a river gone awry is utilized by a number of Exodus affiliated ministries to offer an explanation as to how a homosexual identity develops. They describe the river as a symbol of an individual's sexuality. Boulders or rocks are given as symbols to represent various forms of abuse and neglect, such as childhood trauma, unmet intimacy needs, and deprivation resulting from broken relationships with parents and peers. It is suggested that these boulders and rocks are thrown into the "river of sexuality" and this in turn, causes the river to alter its course and to overflow its banks. Homosexu al behavior is seen as a by-product of this process.

In other places, the literature of some Exodus affiliates appears to reject the notion of a valid homosexual "orientation," and sees redemption in Jesus as a means by which people can overcome their struggles with same-sex attraction. Keys Ministries, an Exodus affiliate ministry in Minnesota, maintains that "homosexuality and lesbianism is not really a sexual problem, but rather a search to fulfill an unmet love need" (http://www.kevsministry.means .com). The belief that homosexuality is a consequence of legitimate needs gone awry is widely held by many of the Exodus affiliates. Homosexual behavior is depicted as a symptom of complex and deep emotional needs, for which one can find healing through an intimate relationship with Christ. First Stone Ministries, an Exodus affiliate in Oklahoma, states "we recognize homosexuality and/or any form of sexual brokenness is not part of God's intent; we believe that through a personal relationship with Jesus that our hearts and lives can be transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit" (http://www.firststone.org).

Format. Most Exodus affiliated ministries utilize a small group format to address the concerns and issues of individuals who seek their services. In our search for information, we found a number of affiliated ministries providing unique group interventions. Love in Action, an Exodus affiliate in Tennessee, utilizes a residential program that is structured in five phases. The phase structure was implemented to provide accountability and consistency. One key component of their program curriculum is the utilization of a Christ centered 12-step format. Individuals desiring to enter the Love In Action Residential Program must complete a comprehensive application, a Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), and a Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Test (see http://www.loveinaction.org).

KEYS Ministry, an Exodus affiliated ministry in Minnesota, offers a program that consists of seven keys: desire, faith, God's Word, forgiveness, love, surrender, and rebuilding (see http://www.keysministry.means.com). The ministry lists six basic beliefs, including that heterosexuality is the creation norm, homosexual behavior is learned, and the way out of homosexuality is difficult but possible.

Desert Stream Ministries, an Exodus affiliated ministry in California, has developed a 20-week program called Living Waters. The Living Waters program is often provided as a closed group and is designed to "assist individuals seeking healing from various forms of sexual and relational brokenness" (http://desertstream.org). Living Waters is presented as a multidimensional program, containing three practical and essential elements--the worship, words, and works of Jesus. According to Desert Stream ministry, worship helps focus participants on Jesus rather than ministry leaders. The words and works of Jesus are emphasized and serve to remind participants that the ministry is concerned with the power of the gospel rather than mere psychology, technical knowledge, or theory. Healing occurs not by insight but through the incarnation (http://desertstream.org; see also Comiskey, 1989).

In our search for information, we found ten additional Exodus affiliated ministries utilizing the Living Waters program. Although a number of ministries utilize the Living Waters program materials, there are variations in its use among ministries. Examples of variation would be the length of program (ranging from 20-30 weeks), timing of the program (fall or spring), and type of participants (e.g., individuals struggling with same-sex attraction exclusively versus a group of individuals experiencing broader relational issues).

Method of Intervention. Exodus' small groups tend to begin with worship, followed by a time of education and discussion, and then end with a time of small group interaction and prayer. Group meetings generally run 1 to 2 hours and meet weekly or bimonthly. Each of these methods is intended to support the primary method of intervention, that is, a relationship with Jesus Christ. This personal relationship is facilitated through local ministry groups, some of which are under a specific church, while others are independent. Additional services are provided, including an annual conference with workshops and presentations, a monthly newsletter, and a speaker's bureau.

Under the umbrella of Exodus International, there are additional methods of interventions utilized by the affiliated ministries to aid and support individuals who struggle with same-sex attractions. We found that 27 of 34 (79%) affiliated ministries from which we received information offer some form of individual accountability, counseling, and/or therapy. In our search for information, one in four ministries were found to have licensed mental health professionals on staff. Journey Christian Ministries, an Exodus affiliate in California, offers an array of professional services, including specialized interventions for men and women struggling with homosexuality.

Similarly, Hope Ministries, an Exodus affiliate in Connecticut, offers a specialized treatment intervention for males seeking to find resolution of their homosexuality. William Consiglio, founder and director of Hope Ministries, refers to himself as a Sexual Orientation Resolution Therapist (SORT). Resolution and recovery are the therapeutic goals in this form of intervention. SORTs are considered specialists who provide help to the individual progressing through three stages of healing: (a) finding the false self, (b) freeing the real/felt self, and (c) fostering the complete self in Christ (see also Consiglio, 1991).

Twenty-six of 34(76%) affiliated ministries offered some form of group intervention. The varied approaches utilized by these ministries include 12 step programs, mentoring programs, "drop in" groups (where people can participate at any time), the Living Waters program, and the New Directions program (the last two programs serving as examples of programs that tend to be closed and run for a set number of weeks). Various populations are served by group interventions within the network of Exodus ministries. For example, Free!, one of Exodus' oldest affiliates, offers a group intervention for incarcerated individuals. Abba's Heart Ministries (Colorado), Freedom At Last (Kansas), The Portland Fellowship (Oregon) and LifeGuard Ministries (Texas) are a few of the, ministries providing services to individuals with HIV/AIDS. Some Exodus affiliated ministries also offer forms of support to spouses, family, and friends of strugglers. In our search for information, we found that 28 of 34 (82%) affiliated ministries held weekly and/or monthly support groups for family and friends. The format of these group interventions will be discussed in more detail in the section that follows.

Four ministries were found that provide residential services: New Hope Ministries (California), Freedom At Last (Kansas), CrossOver Ministries (Kentucky), and Love in Action (Tennessee). The majority of residential programs within the Exodus network provide services to men, with few residential resources for women. Eagle's Wings Ministry (Minnesota) is currently in the process of developing and implementing a women s residential program. These programs often vary in mission, format, and duration.

Lastly, 28 of the 34 (82%) Exodus affiliated ministries from which we received information offered educational services to both the community and the individual. For example, Mastering Life Ministries, an Exodus affiliate in Florida, distinguishes itself as a ministry dedicated to "teaching people how to heal sexual brokenness" (http://www.masteringlife.org). David Foster, founder of Mastering Life Ministries, has written several books and travels extensively conducting workshops that teach others how to minister more effectively to individuals struggling with sexual sins. Other Exodus affiliate ministries invite the community to utilize their resources. Ministry directors and staff are often called upon to speak for community functions, at local high schools, and in local churches. Many ministries provide resource catalogs and information that specifically address the various aspects of homosexuality.

Definition of Success. In answer to the question, "Can homosexuals change?" the Exodus literature states emphatically "Yes!" Given that there is great diversity within the Exodus network ministries, one can expect to find a range of definitions of success. In our search for information, we found few ministries explicitly defining success and/or healing, although there were some exceptions. For example, Eagles' Wings, an Exodus affiliate in Minnesota, defines healing as "a dynamic, living thing which includes an ongoing sense of belonging to one's own gender, comfortableness with same-sex heterosexual people, and the ability to have relationships with them that are nor emotionally dependent. It is furthermore the ability to relate emotionally, spiritually, and physically to the opposite sex, and to function effectively as a spouse and parent as the Lord leads" (http://www.ewm.org).

Outpost, Inc., an Exodus affiliated ministry in Minnesota, conveys their message of healing in the following statement: "We don't help people become heterosexuals. We help them get right with God, their families of origin, and other influential people in their lives--current or past. When this healing happens the sexual stuff tends to work itself out automatically" (http://www.outpost-inc.com). First Stone Ministries, an Exodus affiliated ministry in Oklahoma, proclaims "freedom. from homosexuality is not a method, but a person, Jesus Christ... we minister freedom through a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord" (http://www.firststone.org). Similarly, Living Hope Ministries, an Exodus affiliated ministry in Texas, states that "the illegitimate methods of living life need to be replaced by Godly legitimate relationships within the church. The homosexual struggler will not experience healing until this starts to occur" (http://www.livehope.org).

Recent survey research of participants at an Exodus International conference (and follow-up one year latter) appears to support the view that people can change behavior and what is referred to as "feeling-based" sexual orientation (Schaeffer, Hyde, Kroencke, McCormick, & Nottebaum, 2000; Schaeffer, Nottebaum, Smith, Dech, & Krawczyk, 1999). This research is retrospective and of a convenience sample, so additional research is needed, but the results seem to support the potential benefits of participation in Exodus affiliated programs, particularly in this sample and among those who are highly motivated to pursue change, including chastity.

Independent Religion-Based Ministries

The majority of Christian ministries whose information is available to the public through the Internet are affiliated with Exodus International. Some Christian ministries, though, are independent ministries, and many of these are in the process of becoming affiliated with Exodus International. Other independent ministries are not seeking affiliation with Exodus or any other umbrella organization.

As was the case with Exodus-affiliated ministries, there is a range of offerings among independent religion-based ministries. In our search for information, we found 11 independent religion-based ministries on the Internet (see Appendix B). There are undoubtedly many more programs that we were unable to track down through the present means of investigation.

Mission/Vision. Among the 11 independent religion-based ministries identified, three specifically state that their mission or vision is to help people who are struggling with homosexuality. For example, Overcomers, which was founded in 1985 in Chicago, Illinois, has as its mission to "proclaim the restoring, renewing and reorienting power of Jesus Christ in individuals who desire freedom from homosexuality" (brochure). Similarly, Deliver Ministries, in Jackson, Mississippi, is a Christian organization "dedicated to helping men and women who are struggling with issues of homosexuality." Likewise, RENEW is a religion-based therapy/recovery group "for men who struggle with homosexuality and want to eliminate or minimize homosexual feelings" (www.flash.net/~renew/treatment_program_information.htm).

Other independent programs explicitly extend their ministry beyond homosexuality to a range of sexual and emotional concerns. For example, International Healing Foundation, Inc. (IHF), has as its mission to "assist individuals, couples and families in obtaining greater happiness and freedom in their lives.... IHF counseling services and educational programs focus on a variety of issues such as love/sex/intimacy, parenting skills, couples conflicts, communication skills, addictive/compulsive behaviors, sexual orientation and sexual abuse" (brochure). This approach is not unlike the Isaiah 56 Ministries, which focuses on providing "a place of honor for all," with emphasis on helping those who contend with sexual addictions. Three additional independent religion-based ministries are related in that the leaders were at one time affiliated with Leanne Payne's Pastoral Care Ministries. Although Pastoral Care Ministries does not offer professional or lay counseling, it consists of a ministry team that conducts semin ars on personal wholeness and healing prayer (Payne, 1985, 1996). Redeemed Life was founded and is run by Mario Bergner. This independent ministry consists of in-depth discipleship and pastoral care (Bergner, 1995). McLean Ministries, in Boone, North Carolina, is the other independent religion-based ministry informally affiliated with Leanne Payne because the coordinator of the ministry studied under Payne.

Etiology. There is no one explanation for the etiology of homosexuality that is consistent across all independent religion-based ministries. Some ministries do not discuss etiology in their brochures, while others offer extensive explanations. For example, Bergner (1995), founder of Redeemed Life, offers a detailed account for the etiology of homosexuality in his book, Setting Love in Order. Bergner (1995) has also ministered as part of the Pastoral Care Ministries and draws on the work of Leanne Payne. Bergner describes the process by which healthy sexuality develops. The two central developmental experiences are (a) bonding to and identifying with one's same-sex parent, and (b) relating to and eventually experiencing the complimentary qualities in one's opposite-sex parent. According to Bergner, gender role identity problems arise when a child fails to identify with the same-sex parent and the gender roles learned in that relationship, and when the child fails to experience gender differences learned by rel ating to the opposite sex parent. Homosexuality, then, reflects a legitimate, developmental need for same-sex intimacy.

Leanne Payne (1996) discusses the etiology of homosexuality as related to a "sexual identity crisis" that should be understood in the context of one's "overall search for identity and personhood" (p. 59). In her book, The Broken Image, Payne shares case studies of healing where the etiology is tied to suppressed masculinity, problems in the parent-child relationship, and childhood sexual trauma. Certain threads tie the case studies together, including struggles with masculine or feminine identity.

It should be noted that these explanations for the etiology of same-sex attraction and homosexual identification do not account for all of the independent, religion-based ministry groups. Also, few of the other programs offer detailed accounts for the origins of homosexuality.

Format. Most of the independent Christian ministries provide care through small group format. Some small groups follow a 12-step format; others utilize the 14 steps of Homosexuals Anonymous (HA). Similar to the Exodus affiliated ministries, some of the independent Christian ministries are open groups in that they allow for "drop in" participants. Other independent Christian ministries offer closed groups. For example, Redeemed Life offers a structured, 26-week, closed program with emphasis on worship, teaching, and small group ministry.

Method of Intervention. Most of the independent Christian ministry groups we looked at organized their small groups around worship, education programs and speakers, small group discussion, and prayer. Some ministries, such as Pastoral Care Ministry, primarily conduct seminars; others hold conferences and offer seminars and tape ministries (e.g., McLean Ministries). In contrast, RENEW is actually a recovery program based on a range of resources (i.e., cognitive, behavioral, family systems, and psychoanalytic theories, neurology, 12-step recovery, and spiritual perspectives). RENEW is presented in a workbook with no fewer than 22 modules or areas of recovery emphasizing journaling and management of compulsive behaviors.

Still other Christian ministries offer a broader range of services, including, in the case of International Healing Foundation, Inc., individual, couple, family, and group therapy, as well as seminars and educational programs. Overcomers provides weekly support groups for members and separate support groups for family members, such as Family Forum. Additional support is offered through seminars, workshops, and reading materials, as well as group fellowship emphasizing teaching, corporate worship, Bible study, and prayer.

In contrast to all of the other ministry groups, Deliver Ministries seeks to evangelize the gay community. Ministry participants are involved in Nouthetic counseling (Adams, 1973) and encouraged to utilize a variety of spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, Scripture reading and memorization, and evangelization. Deliver Ministries also provides support and information on homosexuality to family and friends of participants, and many others receive support through the Internet and correspondence counseling.

Definition of Success. Few of the independent, religion-based ministries are explicit about what constitutes success, and few share success rates. Some emphasize change of behavior, while others emphasize change of orientation. Satinover (1996, p. 204), in his discussion of Redeemed Life, states that for those "who continue on and remain committed to the process for the long haul, Bergner [director of Redeemed Life ministries] reports success rates of over 80 percent." Although it is unclear what is meant by success in this case, this comment suggests that there is a recidivism rate that should be taken into consideration when thinking about success rates. It also suggests that motivation for participation in groups may be an important factor in experiences of success. This seems consistent with recent discussions of empirical findings on successful change of behavior and "feeling-based" sexual orientation (Schaeffer et al., 1999; Shidlo & Schroeder, 1999; cf., Spitzer, 2001).

Homosexuals Anonymous

Homosexuals Anonymous (HA) is an explicitly Christian, self-help ministry group for persons in conflict with same-sex feelings or a homosexual orientation. Colin C. originally developed a counseling program (Quest) that led to the HA ministry. HA is a 14-step program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) (5 of the 14 steps are modified from AA, while 9 others are said to be from Colin C.'s own experience). We were able to identify 39 HA chapters in 21 states at the time of this writing, and there are additional HA chapters in Canada and Australia (see Appendix C). Like most of the other Christian ministries, local chapters of HA are funded through voluntary donations by members.

Mission/Vision. The mission or vision of HA is stated in their Statement of Philosophy, which covers three main points:

1. Homosexuals Anonymous, a Christian fellowship, holds the view that homosexual activity is not in harmony with the will of God and that the universal creation norm is heterosexuality. Nevertheless, the great message of righteousness by faith in Christ brings mercy and hope to all people in homosexuality.

2. Christ, the Imago Dei (the Image of God), is the restoration of the creation image, in whom all men and women find their identity by faith. The search for wholeness and heterosexuality within ourselves thus comes to an end. Men and women receive Christ as their image of God, in whom is their wholeness and heterosexuality. As a trained faith grasps this awareness, there is a breaking of the power of the homosexual inclination so that freedom from the homosexual drive and activity is a real possibility.

3. HA, however, does not believe that a change in homosexual inclination is a requirement for acceptance with God or entrance into the fellowship of the church. Although deliverance from homosexual activity is the call of God, the healing of the homosexual inclination will vary according to growth and is a result of our faith identity with Christ, rather than as a way to it. Nevertheless, H.A. holds that the homosexual inclination may be healed and that all who desire it may realize their inborn, though fallen, heterosexuality, thus opening the way to heterosexual marriage and family (http://members.aol.com/Hawebpage/Abo utHA/AboutHA .html).

Etiology. The HA literature dismisses the biological hypotheses (genetic and prenatal hormonal) for the etiology of homosexuality. Emphasis is placed on homosexuality being a learned preference that can be traced to three primary causes: spiritual, intra-psychic, and relational. The intrapsychic and relational factors are discussed in the HA literature and reference is made to the work of Bieber et al. (1962), Socarides (1976), and Moberly (1983). From HA's perspective, same-sex attraction can occur when attachment to the parent of the same sex is not achieved. Homosexual identification, according to the HA literature, is an attempt to meet legitimate developmental needs for same-sex intimacy.

Format. Although each local chapter of HA is different, the primary method of intervention is small groups of between 5 and 8 members who discuss and work through the 14 steps. (2) Help is also offered through a "step coach" who functions similarly to an AA sponsor, because he/she is further along and able to help others follow the steps.

In addition to the 14 steps, local HA chapters use resources from the HA headquarters and other ministry groups. We spoke with one chapter that is also an Exodus International affiliated group, and although most of the resources used there are HA resources, the chapter draws on a broader range of literature than others might.

Method of Intervention. According to the HA website (http://members.aol.com/ Hawebpage/faq/faq.html), meetings run approximately 1-15 hours and typically begin with prayer, introductions, and a reading of the steps. The majority of the time is spent sharing (a) histories (where senior members share with new members their experience and the work that God is doing in their lives), (b) "step talk" (where a member gives a brief talk on one of the 14 steps and offers suggestions for application), and (c) discussion (where members encourage one another in the step process or other experiences).

An emerging format for HA meetings is available through the Internet. Presumably, the gap between people requesting services and nearby chapters is great. The Internet chapters allow people to find support when there are no local chapters to attend.

HA also provides a book ministry to homosexual persons, their families, and supportive friends. Topics include recommended resources that provide general information on homosexuality, as well as books or audiotapes for each of the 14 steps.

In addition, one local chapter we contacted provided what they refer to as "H-anon groups." These are nor official HA groups, but they are the equivalent of Al-anon groups, and education and support are provided to family members and friends of peopie who experience same-sex attraction, self-identify as homosexual, or are members of HA.

Definition of Success. Rather than focus on movement on measures of sexual orientation (such as the widely-used Kinsey scale or the Klein Sexual Orientation grid), HA defines success or recovery rather broadly so as to incorporate things like "the ending of anger and resentment toward God and parents, an acceptance of self in relation to God, and a feeling of safety in a world that, though seemingly alien, is nevertheless under God's loving control" (http://members.ao1.com/Hawebpage/AboutHA/AboutHA.html). Recovery, then, involves changing thoughts, feelings, habits of compulsion, and destructive behavior patterns that are believed to eventually lead to a shift in sexual inclination. Although HA does not publish empirical studies on change of sexual orientation, testimonials and anecdotal reports of change are common.

Courage

Courage is a Catholic group that offers support to persons who contend with same-sex attraction. Courage originated in 1980 out of Archbishop Terrence Cardinal Cooke's diocese in New York under the direction of the Rev. John Harvey. There are presently 71 Courage chapters in nine countries (Australia, Canada, the Philippines, Poland, New Zealand, Slovakia, Ireland, England, and the U.S.; Appendix D).

Mission/Vision. The mission of courage is "to provide spiritual support for men and women striving to live chaste lives in accordance with the Catholic Church's pastoral teaching on homosexuality" (http://world.std.com/~courage /back2b.htm). According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, homosexual persons are called to chastity by the "virtues of self mastery that teach them inner freedom" and the Church calls Her people to accept homosexual persons with "respect, compassion, and sensitivity." However, the Catholic Church makes a clear distinction between the homosexual as a person and the sexual acts of a homosexual. The Catechism specifically states that homosexual acts are "intrinsically disordered" and are "contrary to the natural law." It further states that homosexual acts "close the sexual act to the gift of life" and that "under no circumstances can they be approved" (http://www.christusrex.org/wwwl/CDHN/sixth.html). Following this, persons experiencing same-sex attraction who commit themselves t o the Catholic faith are encouraged to participate in Courage groups.

As people join Courage they are introduced to Courage's five objectives (Harvey, 1987):

1. To live chaste lives in accordance with the Roman Catholic Church's teaching on homosexuality.

2. To dedicate one's life to Christ through service to others, spiritual reading, prayer, meditation, individual spiritual direction, frequent attendance at Mass, and the frequent reception of the sacraments of Penance and Holy Eucharist.

3. To foster a spirit of fellowship in which all may share thoughts and experiences, and so ensure that no one will have to face the problems of homosexuality alone.

4. To be mindful of the truth that chaste friendships are not only possible but necessary in a celibate Christian life and in doing so provide encouragement to one another in forming and sustaining them.

5. To live lives that may serve as good examples to others. (pp. 141-142)

Etiology. There does not appear to be one explanation from Courage for the etiology of homosexuality. Courage's founder, John Harvey (1987), discusses a complex web of psychological, environmental, and hormonal factors that predisposes an individual to homosexuality. These include the psychoanalytic approach of Moberly (1983) and the Adlerian approach of van den Aardweg (1986). In his more recent work, Harvey (1996) discusses common conflicts" that "predispose individuals to homosexual attractions and behavior": "loneliness and sadness, mistrust and fear, profound feelings of inadequacy and a lack of self-acceptance, narcissism, excessive anger, sexual abuse in childhood, and a lack of balance in one's life coupled with overwhelming feelings of responsibility" (p. 308, pp. 308-324).

Format. Courage chapters provide ministry through support groups. The groups tend to allow time for prayer, discussion, and fellowship. It is also common for meetings to follow a 12-step format similar to Homosexuals Anonymous and for discussions to be drawn from the 14-steps of Homosexuals Anonymous. However, Courage groups discuss these steps within a Catholic understanding of homosexual behavior and fellowship.

Method of Intervention. According to the Courage website, Courage support groups are offered in diverse formats. The method of intervention typically consists of the director reviewing the goals of Courage and then initiating a group discussion about a relevant topic (see Harvey, 1987, pp. 156-158). Some groups follow a more structured program.

In some meetings, members also hear testimonials from fellow members or guest speakers and celebrate Mass. Fellowship outside of the support groups is also encouraged (with other members and with people who do not contend with same-sex attraction). These "virtuous friendships" are based on four guidelines offered by Harvey (1987): (a) belief that genital sexual fulfillment is not a prerequisite to intimacy, (b) commitment to being known by others, (c) friendship with those who share the Courage member's ideals, and (d) friendship tied to God as a common bond.

Referrals are also provided to counselors who support the Catholic Church's teaching on homosexuality. It is up to the discretion of the priests/directors whether pastoral counseling is provided by them or whether they determine a need for the member to receive professional assistance. Additional resources include EnCourage (which is an organization for friends and family of those who contend with same-sex attraction), an annual international conference, and "Days of Recollection" (mini-retreats sponsored by local Courage chapters).

More recent writing by Harvey (1995) suggests that some within Courage are giving more consideration to change of sexual orientation, even though change is not viewed as a necessary part of Courage's program. Harvey, drawing upon his clinical experience with "several hundred adolescents and adults," argues that the key to recovery is "forgiveness and spirituality," by which he means "the resolution of excessive anger" (forgiveness) and prayers of petition, meditation, the Scriptures, the Rosary, holy hours, the Eucharist, the sacrament of reconciliation, and spiritual direction" (spirituality) (pp. 327, 332). Maria Valdes (Appendix II, in Harvey's The Truth About Homosexuality) discusses her work with ego-dystonic homosexuals. Her treatment approach is referred to as Holistic Treatment, which includes psychological, spiritual, physiological, and educational interventions.

Definition of Success. Success is defined as chastity. Chastity is achieved through a commitment to Christ expressed through the spiritual disciplines of service, prayer, reading of Scripture, spiritual direction, corporate worship, Penance, and the Eucharist.

IMPRESSIONS FROM THE PRESENT REVIEW

The present review of the literature on paraprofessional Christian ministries is meant to introduce the reader to the variety of ministries that provide interventions and support to persons who struggle with sexual behavior and same-sex identity concerns. This review has left us with several impressions.

The first impression concerns the five categories under discussion: mission/vision, view of etiology, method of intervention, format, and view of success (see Figure 1). Considering mission/vision, it is clear that most Christian ministries emphasize freedom from homosexuality. This is important because it is a different impression than what one might get from the public debates about whether people can change their sexual orientation. Apparently, while change of orientation is the focus in some ministry groups, it is not the primary concern in many groups.

Concerning etiology, most groups across the various Christian ministry programs view homosexuality as learned behavior, suggesting environmental and psychological (and in some cases spiritual) components. There are exceptions to this general emphasis on learned behavior, including the writing of Courage's John Harvey, who provides a more comprehensive review of various possible interacting influences.

Most Christian ministry groups rely on small groups as the primary format, while worship, prayer, education, and discussion comprise the typical method of intervention. Most programs appear to be open, although some are closed, and this depends largely on curriculum, which has apparently improved significantly over the past ten years. Some programs follow a general 12-step method in their small group format, and some rely on HA's 14 steps. A variety of additional services are provided through specific groups, including residential programs, speaker's bureaus/seminars, individual, couple and family therapy, support groups for family members, written materials, and groups over the Internet.

Success is defined differently by different programs. Some focus primarily on one's relationship with God and others, including freedom from dependence in relationships. Other programs define success in behavioral terms, including what it means to achieve celibacy and chastity, while others are concerned with change of thoughts, fantasies, and feelings, which are seen as leading to change of orientation.

The second impression is related to the first and has to do with what it means to make informed referrals to specific ministry groups. No two ministries are identical. Not only do groups offer different programs, resources, or services, but also groups vary in quality based on a number of other factors including leadership of a given ministry. If mental health professionals consider making a referral to a ministry, one of the most important considerations is whether leaders are licensed or under a board of directors or other external accountability structure. In addition, professionals may want to ask about the leadership team's view of the etiology of homosexuality and their understanding of change, as well as how they communicate that understanding to participants. In order to explain the ministry to a client, it may be helpful to understand a specific ministry's format and curriculum and whether they provide additional collateral support, such as book resources, audio or video tapes, or family services.

The third impression has to do with where Christian ministries go from here. Important research questions come up from this review. It has already been mentioned that there is a need to conduct outcome studies on Christian ministry programs. Recent survey research (e.g., Schaeffer et al., 1999, 2000) is promising, but the findings also point researchers in new and important directions. Taken together, recent survey research and this present review suggests a need to compare types of programs, including open and closed programs, so that outcome studies are not merely reporting on drop-ins. A related suggestion would be to consider content analyses of the emerging structured programs, such as New Directions or Living Waters. If programs that use these materials are shown to be effective, what is it about the content of the programs that is contributing to successful change? This raises an additional research consideration. There is a need to evaluate programs based on their mission and view of success. For exam ple, outcome studies on Courage with its primary emphasis on chastity would involve different variables than outcome studies on an independent program that has as its goal change of orientation.

CONCLUSION

There are many varieties of Christian ministries for sexual behavior and same-sex identity concerns. This paper reviewed literature on four major categories of Christian ministries. (5) We discussed similarities and differences related to mission/vision, view of etiology, method of intervention, format, and definition of success. Christian mental health professionals and ministry personnel are encouraged to recognize these differences in ministries so they can make informed decisions about referrals and collareral contacts when working with clients where samesex behavior and identity issues are a concern.

APPENDIX A.

Exodus International Affiliated Ministries

For updates, contact Exodus International North America 

P.O. Box 77652

Seattle, WA 98177-0652

Phone: [phone]

Internet: www.exodusnorthamerica.org

ALABAMA

Castlebrook Counseling, Inc

P.O. Box 850781

Mobile, AL 36685

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

ARIZONA

HIS Image

P.O. Box 642

Peoria, AZ 85380

Phone: [phone]

CALIFORNIA

Desert Stream

P.O. Box 17635

Anaheim Hills, CA 92817

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://www.desertstreem.org

Journey Christian Ministries

30713 Riverside Drive, Suite #204

Lake Elsinore, CA 92530

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

River of Life

10791 Tierrasanta Blvd., #104

San Diego, CA 92124

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Thomas Aquinas Psychological Clinic

16633 Venture Blvd. #1340

Encino, CA 91436

Phone: [phone]

HIS Ministry

c/o Sunrise Community Church

8321 Greenback Lane

Fair Oaks, CA 95628

Phone: [phone]

Apokata Psychological Services

1357 Mowry Ave

Fremont, CA 94536

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://christianmentalhealth.com

New Hope Charitable Foundation

P.O. Box 10246

San Rafael, CA 94912

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.newhope123.org

Transformed Image

P.O. Box 18055

San Jose, CA 95118

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.familybiblechurch.org

His Way Out Ministries

10700 Brimhall Road

Bakersfield, CA 93312

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

www.hiswayout.com

New Creation Ministries

P.O. Box 5451

Fresno, CA 93755

Phone: [phone]

Email: newcreations@USA

COLORADO

Abba's Heart Ministries

P.O. Box 101029

Denver, CO 80250

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.abbasheart.org

Freedom Quest

P.O. Box 63078

Colorado Springs, CO 80962

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Janelle M. Hallman, M.A.

8771 Wolf Ct. #110

Westminster, CO 80030

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

New Heart

P.O. Box 17641

Boulder, CO 80308

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Where Grace Abounds

P.O. Box 18871

Denver, CO 80218

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

CONNECTICUT

HOPE Ministries of Connecticut

Box 604 60-C Skiff Street

Hamden, CT 06517

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet www.homosexresolve.netministries.org

FLORIDA

Abiding In HIM Ministry

P.O. Box 60692

St Petersburg, FL 33784

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Exchange Ministries, Inc

C/o Calvary Assembly

1199 Clay St.

Winter Park, FL 32789

Phone:[phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.eleutheros.org

Imagine That Ministries

P.O. Box 563

Polk City, FL 33868

Phone:[phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: wwwimaginethatministries.org

El Hijo Prodigo

P.O. Box 570745

Orlando, FL 32857

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Mastering Life Ministries

P.O. Box 351149

Jacksonville, FL 32235

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.masteringlife.org

New Hearts Outreach

P.O. Box 11453

Tampa, FL 33680

Phone: [phone] (vm)

Email: [e-mail]

Worthy Creation Ministries

P.O. Box 93

Fr. Lauderdale, FL 33302

Phone:[phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.worthycreations.org

GEORGIA

John A. Barber, LMSW 

Center for Change and Recovery

Kennestone Gates

140 Vann St, Suite 400

Marietta, GA 30060

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Quest Ministries, Inc.

P.O. Box 48522

Atlanta, GA 30362

Phone [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.questministries.org

Resurrection Life Ministries

P.O. Box 95205

Atlanta, GA 30347

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.rlmhope.org

IDAHO

Bellwether Ministries

P.O. Box 15766

Boise, ID 83715

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

ILLINOIS

Nehemiah Ministries & Fellowship

P.O. Box 773

Urbana, IL 61803

Phone: [phone]

Transformed By Grace

P.O. Box 6237

Evanston, IL 60204

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Reconstruction Ministries-BYM

826 W. Meadows Place

Peoria, IL 61604

Phone: [phone]

INDIANA

Hope & New Life Ministry, Inc

P.O. Box 931

Indianapolis, IN 46206

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

IOWA 

Freedom Ministries

P.O. Box 65950

W. Des Moines, IA 50265

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

KANSAS

Freedom At Last

P.O. Box 13314

Wichita, KS 67213

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.freedomatlast.org

KENTUCKY

CrossOver Ministries

P.O. Box 23744

Lexington, KY 40523

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: frontpageaccess.com/crossover

Hope for Change Ministries

P.O. Box 8089

Louisville, KY 40257

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

LOUISIANA

The Master's Design

P.O. Box 3152

West Monroe, LA 71294

Phone: [phone]

MARYLAND

Regeneration

P.O. Box 9830

Baltimore, MD 21284

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Straight to the Cross

P.O. Box 883

Mt Airy, MD 21771

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

MASSACHUSETTS

Pathway

54 Eric Drive

Uxbridge, MA 01569

Phone: [phone]

Renewing Hope Ministries

961 Wilbraham Rd.

Springfield, MA 01109

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: hopewmass.homestead.com

MICHIGAN

Corduroy Stone

1222 Climax Street

Lansing, MI 48912

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Land Office Ministries

C/o Calvary Church 

P.O. Box 1600

Grand Rapids, MI 49501

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.geocities.com/landofficeministries

Reconciliation Ministries (East)

43700 Merill Road

Sterling Heights, MI 48314

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://www.recmin.org

Reconciliation Ministries (West)

3761 Commerce Ct.

Wayne, MI 48184

Phone: [phone]

Vital Signs

P.O. Box 157

Bay Shore, MI 49711

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

MINNESOTA

Eagles' Wings

P.O. Box 11246

Minneapolis, MN 55411

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://www.ewm.org

KEYS Ministries

Box 97

Wykoff, MN 5590

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://www.keyministry.means.com

OASIS

Riverside Assembly

20924 Highway 7 West

Hutchinson, MN 55350

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Outpost, Inc.

P.O. Box 22429

Robbinsdale, MN 55422

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://www.outpost-inc.com

Simon Ministries

PO Box 11041

Minneapolis, MN 55411

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

MISSOURI

Bright Hope Ministries

12017 East 56th St.

Kansas City, MO 64133

Phone: [phone]

MONTANA

Higher Ground Ministries

P.O. Box 23574

Billings, MT 59104

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

NEBRASKA

Ned Stringham, Ph.D.

Lincoln Counseling and

Enrichment Associates

7441 "O" Sr., Suite 401

Lincoln, NE 68510

Thomas L. Sperling, M.S., L.M.H.P.

Sperling Counseling Services, Inc.

11330 Q Street, Suite 207

Omaha, NE 68137

Phone: [phone]

NEVADA

Resolutions Through Christ

4591 Hutchinson Dr.

Las Vegas, NV 89147

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

NEW HAMPSHIRE 

Children of light

P.O. Box 650

Hinsdale, NH 03451

Phone: [phone]

ReCreation, Inc.

P.O. Box 788

Manchester, NH 03106

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

NEW JERSEY

Transformation Ex-gay Christian Ministries (branch)

Phone: [phone]

NEW MEXICO 

Free Indeed Ministries

P.O. Box 27171

Albuquerque, NM 87125

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: finm.org

NEW YORK

All In His Name Ministries

c/o New Life Assembly of God Church

14 North Street

Buffalo, NY 14202

Phone: [phone]

Hope Ministry NYC 

c/o Calvary Baptist Church

123 W. 57th Street

New York, NY 10019

Phone: [phone]

Whosoever Will Ministry

P.O. Box 277

Middletown, NY 10940

Phone: [phone]

[phone]

Email: [e-mail]

NORTH CAROLINA 

Beyond Imagination

P.O. Box 28294

Raleigh, NC 27611

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.beyondimagination.org

Breaking Free

P.O. Box 225 DTS 

Boone, NC 28607

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.nreakingfreeministry.org

CROSS Ministry, Inc.

P.O. Box 18843

Raleigh, NC 27619

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.crossministry.org

New Life Ministries

c/o Liberty Church

1746 Jim Barnwell Road

Burlington, NC 27217

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Recovery House

1230 E. Barden Rd.

Charlotte, NC 28226

Phone: [phone]

Walking Together

P.O. Box 111

Skyland, NC 28776

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

NORTH DAKOTA 

Still Waters Ministry

P.O. Box 11455

Fargo, ND 58103

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://cmea1.org

OHIO

Bridge

1066 Bellows Ave

Columbus, OH 43223

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Healing Touch Ministry

P.O. Box 750282

Dayton, OH 45475

Phone: [phone]

Hope Fellowship Services

P.O. Box 2516

Springfield, OH 45501

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

In His Image

P.O. Box 174

Willoughby, OH 44096

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Prodigal Ministries

P.O. Box 19949

Cincinnati, OH 45219

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

The Way Out

c/o Trinity Fellowship Church 

4749 South Ave

Youngstown, OH 44512

Phone: [phone]

OKLAHOMA

39th Street Ministry

704 Harrier Hawk 

Edmond, OK 73003

Phone: [phone]

First Stone Ministries

1330 N. Classen Blvd., Ste G-80

Oklahoma City, OK 73106

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.firststone.org

Loving Grace Ministry, Inc

7009 S. Danner Dr.

Oklahoma City, OK 73159

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.lovinggraceministry.org

Restoration By Grace

P.O. Box 55236

Tulsa, OK 74155

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

OREGON

Grace Ministries of Central Oregon 

P.O. Box 972

Bend, OR 97709

Phone: [phone]

Straight to God Ministries

P.O. Box 2092

Corvallis, OR 97339

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.straighttogod.org

The Portland Fellowship

P.O. Box 9205

Portland, OR 97207

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.portlandfellowhip.com

PENNSYLVANIA

Crossroads Sexual Wholeness Ministries

PO Box 531

Milton, PA 17847

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://crossroadsmin.tripod.com

Day Seven Ministries

P.O. Box 575

Elizabethtown, PA 17022

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.day7.org

Dunamis Ministries

c/o Covenant Church of Pittsburgh

1111 Wood Street

Pittsburgh, PA 15221

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Free!

105 S. Market Street

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://h.home.dhs.org

Harvest USA

P.O. Box 11469

Philadelphia, PA 19111

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.harvestusa.org

Karallage Ministries

P.O. Box 8164

Pittsburgh, PA 15217

Phone: [phone]

SOUTH CAROLINA 

Solid Rock

P.O. Box 6883

Greenville, SC 29606

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.gaynomore.org/solidrock

Truth Ministry

P.O. Box 5781

Spartanburg, SC 29304

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.truthministry.com

Walking Free Ministries

214 White Church Lane

Summerville, SC 29485

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

TENNESSEE

Faithful & True

952 W. Poplar Ave

Collierville, TN 38017

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.centralchurch.com

Harvest USA Mid-South

PO Box 4025

Chattanooga, TN 37405

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.harvestusa.org

Joseph's Coat Ministries, Inc

P.O. Box 24071

Chattanooga, TN 37422

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Love In Action International, Inc

P.O. Box 753307

Memphis, TN 38175

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://www.loveinactiion.org

TRUEHOPE..for the Best Alternative

P.O. Box 3242

Brentwood, TN 37024

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

TEXAS

Awakening/Reach

P.O. Box 201004

San Antonio, TX 78220

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.awake-reach.org

Awakening II

Christ Episcopal Church 

510 Belknap

San Antonio, TX 78212

Phone:[phone]

Christian Coalition for Reconciliation

P.O. Box 420437

Houston, TX 77242

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.ccrhouston.org

LifeGuard Ministries

6611 Berrywood Lane

Georgetown, TX 78628

Phone:[phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.lifeguardministries.org

Living Hope Ministries

P.O. Box 2239

Arlington, 76004

Phone:[phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internee: www.livehope.org

Sexual Wholeness Ministries

P.O. Box 580592

Houston, TX 77258

Phone: [phone]

VIRGINIA

Greater Hope

P.O. Box 772

Harrisonburg, VA 22803

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.greaterhope.org

Regeneration-Northern Virginia

P.O. Box 1034

Fairfax, VA 22030

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Set Free, Inc.

P.O. Box 14835

Richmond, VA 23221

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Sought Out

P.O. Box 62019

Virginia Beach, VA 23466

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Transformation Christian Ministries

1401 King St

Alexandria, VA 22314

Phone:[phone]

Email: [e-mail]

WASHINGTON

Metanoia Ministries

P.O. Box 1353

Tacoma, WA 98401

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.metanoiaonline.org

Metanoia Ministries of Spokane

P.O. Box 1045

Veradale, WA 99037

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

WISCONSIN

Broken Yoke Ministries, Inc

P.O. Box 36l

Waukesha, WI 53187

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.jefnet.com/brokenyoke

Broken Yoke-Madison

Bethesda Christian Fellowship

3245 E. Washington Ave

Madison, WI 53704

Phone: [phone]

Reclamation Ministry

P.O. Box 1062

Oshkosh, WI 54903

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet www.reclamationrc.org

CANADA

BRITISH COLUMBIA 

Another Chance Ministries

PO Box 4022

Vancouver, BC V6B 3Z4

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://www.anotherchance.org

MANITOBA

New Direction for Life Ministries

P.O. Box 1493

Winnipeg MB, R3C 2Z4

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.newdirection.ca

ONTARIO

New Direction for Life Ministries

P.O. Box 10:78 Station. F

Toronto, ON, M4Y 2T7

Phone: [phone]

Internet: www.newdirectionn.ca

Internet: www.freetobeme.com

APPENDIX B.

Independent Religion-Based Ministries

Deliver Ministries

P.O. Box 6526

Jackson, MI 49204

Email: [e-mail]

Internet members.aol.com/delivermin/index.html

International Healing Foundations, Inc.

P.O. Box 901

Bowie, MD 20718-0901

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Isaiah 56 Ministries

Isaiah Christian Church

2703 N. Fitzhugh

Dallas, TX 75204

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://www.isaiah.org/

McLean Ministries

P.O. Box 98 DTS

Boone, NC 28607

Phone: [phone]

Overcomers: A Christian Ministry

5445 North Clark Street

Chicago, IL 60640

Phone: [phone]

Pastoral Care Ministries

Leanne Payne

P.O. Box 1313

Wheaton, IL 60189

Phone: [phone]

Redeemed Life

Mario Bergner

Church of the Resurrection

1825 College Avenue, Ste. 160

Wheaton, IL 60187

Phone: [phone]

RENEW

Christopher Austin, Ph.D.

P.O. Box 153429

Irving, Texas 75015-3429

Phone:[phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: www.flash.net/~renew

APPENDIX C.

Homosexual chapters

For updates and information on online chapters: (U.S.)

Phone: [phone]

Internet: http://members/aol.com/haweb-page

Birmingham, Alabama 

[phone]

Florence, Alabama 

[phone]

Phoenix, Arizona 

Tempe, Arizona 

[phone]

Azusa, California 

[phone]

San Jose, California 

[phone]

Honolulu, Hawaii 

[phone]

Chicago, IL

[phone]

Clear Lake, Iowa 

[phone]

Bangor, Maine 

Caribou, Maine 

[phone]

Frederick, Maryland 

[phone]

Baltimore, Maryland 

[phone]

Baltimore Suburbs, Maryland

[phone] x333

Traverse City, Michigan 

[phone]

Austin, Minnesota

Rochester, Minnesota

Winona, Minnesota 

[phone]

Jackson, Mississippi

[phone]

Columbia, Missouri 

[phone]

Las Vegas, Nevada

[phone]

Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey 

[phone]

Sussex, New Jersey 

[phone]

Charlotte, North Carolina 

[phone]

Rocky Mountain, North Carolina

[phone]

Springfield, Ohio 

[phone]

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 

[phone]

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

[phone]

Reading, Pennsylvania 

[phone]

Brownsville, Texas 

Harlingen, Texas 

[phone]

Kilgore, Texas 

[phone]

Laredo, Texas

[phone]

McAllen, Texas

[phone]

South Padre Island, Texas 

[phone]

Burlington, Vermont 

(802)-862-7545

Fairfax, Virginia 

(703)-830-6999

Eau Clarie, Wisconsin

[phone]

LaCrosse, Wisconsin

[phone]

CANADA

NOVA SCOTIA 

Yarmouth

902-648-0035

AUSTRALIA

CANBERRA

02-6291-7792

APPENDIX D.

Courage Chapters International

UNITED STATES 

Courage

C/o St. John the Baptist 

Church

210 West 31st Street

New York, NY 10001

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Internet: http://courageRC.org

AUSTRALIA

Broadway

Courage

P.O. Box 893

Broadway 2007

Dingley

Courage

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

St. Lucia

Courage

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

CANADA

BRITISH COLUMBIA, VANCOUVER

Courage

Guardian Angels Parish

1161 Broughton Street

Vancouver, B.C. V6B 2B3

MANITOBA, WINNIPEG

Courage

P.O. Box 2655

Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 4B3

ONTARIO, LONDON

Courage

o/o Diocese of London 

1070 Waterloo Street 

London, Ontario, N6A 3Y2

ONTARIO, OTTAWA

Courage

St. Elizabeth Church

1303 Leaside Avenue

Ottawa, Ontario K1Z 7R2

ONTARIO, THUNDER BAY 

Courage

c/o St. Andrew Parish

292 Red River Road

Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 1A8

ONTARIO, TORONTO

Courage

141 McCaul Street 

Toronto, Ontario M5T 1W3

PHILIPPINES

Courage

Anawin Community Center

5 Vida Doria Street

B.F. Resort Village

Las Pinas, Metro Manila 

Philippines

UNITED KINGDOM

EnCourage

P.O. Box 3745

London, England N2 8LW

IRELAND

Courage

P.O. Box 378

Belfast, BT15, Northern Ireland 

SLOVAKIA

Novaves

Courage

Email: [e-mail]

POLAND

Courage

Phone: [phone]LUB0605921654

NEW ZEALAND

Christchurch

Email: [e-mail]

Figure 1

Christian Ministry Groups by Mission/Vision, View of Etiology, Method of
Intervention, Format, and View of Success

Christian Ministry     Mission/Vision        View of Etiology


Exodus International   (C) Freedom from      (C) Learned
Affiliates                 Homosexuality;        behavior;
                       (S) Change of         (C) Psychological
                           orientation           and spiritual
                                                 issue
                                             (S) Defensive
                                                 detachment




Independent Christian  (C) Freedom from      (C) Leaned
Ministries                 homosexuality;        behavior;
                       (S) Change of         (S) Defensive
                           orientation           detachment
                       (S) Evangelize gay
                           community




Homosexuals            (C) Wholeness;        (C) Learned
Anonymous Chapters     (C) Freedom from          preference tied
                           homosexuality;        to spiritual,
                       (S) Heterosexuality       intrapsychic,
                                                 and relational
                                                 issues



Courage                (C) Support for       (C) Interacting
Chapters                   people pursuing       influences;
                           chastity;         (C) Objective
                       (C) Dedicate life to      condition
                           Christ;
                       (C) Fellowship;
                       (C) Service




Christian Ministry     Format              Method of
                                           Intervention

Exodus International   (C) Small groups;   (C) Worship
Affiliates             (S) 12 steps            small groups,
                       (S) 14 steps of HA      education,
                       (S) Open                discussion;
                       (S) Closed          (S) Support to
                                               families;
                                           (S) Residential;
                                           (S) Written
                                               materials


Independent Christian  (C) Small groups;   (C) Worship,
Ministries             (S) 12 steps;           education,
                       (S) 14 steps of HA      discussion;
                       (S) Open            (S) Support to
                       (S) Closed              families;
                                           (S) Individual,
                                               couple, family
                                           (S) Seminars;
                                           (S) Internet

Homosexuals            (C) Small groups;   (S) Support to
Anonymous Chapters     (C) 14 steps of HA      families;
                       (C) Open            (S) Written
                                               resources;
                                           (S) Internet




Courage                (C) Small groups;   (C) spiritual
Chapters               (C) Open;               reading,
                       (S) 12 steps            prayer,
                                               meditation
                                               service, Mass,
                                               Penance,
                                               Eucharist;
                                           (S) EnCourage
                                               (support to
                                               families)

Christian Ministry     View of Success


Exodus International   (C) Right
Affiliates                 relationship
                           with god and
                           others;
                       (C) Freedom from
                           dependence;
                       (S) Change of
                           behavior;
                       (S) Change of
                           orientation

Independent Christian  (S) Change of
Ministries                 behavior;
                       (S) Change of
                           orientation






Homosexuals            (C) Change of
Anonymous Chapters         behavior
                       (C) Change of
                           thoughts,
                           fantasies,
                           feelings that
                           lead to change
                           of orientation

Courage                (C) Chastity
Chapters









Key: (C) = Characteristic of most groups to have this mission, hold this
view of etiology, utilize this format, provide this method of
intervention, or have this view of success.

(S) = Specific groups in this category have this mission, hold this view
of etiology, utilize, this format, provide this method of intervention,
Format, and View of Success

(1.) It should be noted at the outset that there have been instances of sexual misconduct among some leaders of Christian ministry groups. Blair (1982) discussed some of the circumstances surrounding the founders of HA and Exodus, and Haldeman (1994) discussed his perspective on the implications of these abuses, Christians should be aware of the history of abuses; while misconduct does not discredit present ministry programs, it does offer a sober reminder of how vulnerable people are who enter ministry groups. It also suggests that accountability among leaders and staff is of utmost importance.

(2.) The 14 steps of HA are as follows: (1) We admitted we were powerless over our homosexuality and that our emotional lives were unmanageable; (2) We came to believe the love of God, who forgave us and accepted us in spite of all that we are and have done; (3) We learned to see purpose in our suffering, that our failed lives were under God's control, who is able to bring good out of trouble; (4) We came to believe that God had already broken the power of homosexuality and that He could therefore restore our true personhood; (5) We came to perceive that we had accepted a lie about ourselves, an illusion that had trapped us in a false identity; (6) We learned to claim our true identity that, as humankind, we ate part of God's heterosexual creation and that God calls us to rediscover that identity in Him through Jesus Christ, as our faith perceives Him; (7) We resolved to entrust our lives to our loving God and to live by faith, praising Him for our new unseen identity, confident that it would become visible t o us in God's good time; (8) As forgiven people free from condemnation, we made a searching and fearless moral inventory of our-selves, determining to root out fear, hidden hostility, and contempt for the world; (9) We admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being, the exact nature of our wrongs and humbly asked God to remove our defects of character; (10) We willingly made direct amends wherever wise and possible to all people we had harmed; (11) We determined to live no longer in fear of the world, believing that God's victorious control turns all that is against us into our favor, bringing advantage out of sorrow and order from disaster; (12) We determined to mature in our relationships with men and women, learning the meaning of a partnership of equals, seeking neither dominance over people nor servile dependency on them; (13) We sought, through confident praying and the wisdom of Scripture, for an ongoing growth in our relationships with God and a humble acceptance of His guidance for our liv es; and (14) Having made a spiritual awakening, we tried to carry this message to people in homosexuality with a love that demands nothing and to practice these steps in all our lives' activities, as far as lies within us.

(3.) Two additional faith-hascd ministries, Jews Offering New Alternatives to Homosexuality (JONAH) and Evergreen International, were not addressed in this review. JONAH reaches out to the Jewish community through educational and support services to individuals and their families struggling with unwanted same-sex desires. According to JONAH, "change is possible" (JONAH brochure). Jews Offering New Alternatives to Homosexuality, P0 Box 313, Jersey City, NJ 07303, or call [phone].

Evergreen, a ministry of the Latter Day Saints, provides a variety of resources, including but not limited to, information counseling, information on affiliate group meetings and activities, conferences, workshops and publications (www.evergreen-intl.org). Evergreen International 211 East 300 South, Suite 206, Salt Lake City, Utah 84111, or call 1-800-391-1000.

REFERENCES

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Bergner, M. (1995). Setting love in order: Hope and healing for the homosexual. Grand Rapids, MI; Baker.

Bieber, I., Dain H.J., Dince, P.R., Drellich, M. G., Grand, H. G., Gundlach, R. H., Kremer, M. W., Rifkin, A. H., Wilbur, C. B., & Bieber, T. B. (1962). Homosexuality: A psychoanalytic study. New York: Basic.

Blair, R. (1982, April). Ex-gay. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the Christian Association for Psychological Studies, Atlanta, GA.

Comiskey, A. (1989). Pursuing sexual wholeness: How Jesus heals the homosexual. Lake Mary, FL: Creation House.

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Schaeffer, K. W, Nottebaum, L., Smith, P., Deeb, K., & Krawczyk, J. (1999). Religiously-motivated sexual orientation change: A follow-up study. Journal of Psychology and Theology 27, 329-337.

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AUTHORS

YARHOUSE, MARK A. Address: Regent University, School of Psychology and Counseling, Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23464. Title: Associate Professor, School of Psychology and Counseling. Degrees: BA, Philosophy, Calvin College; BA, Art, Calvin College; MA, Clinical Psychology, Wheaton College; MA, Theological Studies, Wheaton College; PsyD, Clinical Psychology, Wheaton College. Specializations: Human sexuality, ethics, integration of psychology and theology.

BURKETT, LORI A. Address: Regent University, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23464. Title: Doctoral student in clinical psychology. Degrees: BA, Psychology, Evangel College; BA, Sociology, Evangel College; MA, Criminology, Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

KREEFT, ELIZABETH M. Address: Regent University, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23464. Title: Doctoral student in clinical psychology. Degrees: BA, Psychology, Boston College; MA, Psychology, Boston University.

Correspondence concerning this article may be sent to Mark Yarhouse, PsyD, Regent University, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23464.