"CHRISTIAN" RHETORIC, ACTION, AND SILENCE ARE KILLING PEOPLE!

By: Jerry Manker

[I hope everyone enjoy Jerry's commentary on bigotry and hate from self-professed christians, and how silence of speaking truth and living in one's truth is killing others! News and story updates from me later today-Justice MH]


"'Whether their sexual preference is to be a homosexual or being gay, that's their problem,' Da' Priest says. 'I'm the street, I'm the street priest, and I have real good Christian values on what I believe in, and I am against homosexuality.'" from Npr.org

I never heard of Dooney Da Priest, a songwriter! However, his above statement is crucial for every single decent person, and for everyone who considers him/herself to be a Christian, to read and understand.

Christianity has become defined in the minds of most people as being not only a judgmental religion, but the rhetoric, actions and/or silence and inaction on the part of all too many professing Christians and clergy has had the effect of equating being "Gay" with being "immoral" in the minds of others, including many, if not most, LGBT people.

The mantra that being Gay is equivalent to being immoral, and is against the will of God, has been spewed so often in and from most churches, and is believed by most clergy and church-goers within the institutional Church, that one can not only believe that lie, but one can feel free to hawk his/her "Christian" credentials by affirming his/her disdain for homosexuality; so many professing Christians can justify to others their homophobia by appealing to the fact that they are "Bible-believing Christians."

As you well know, I lay the lion's share of the blame for homophobia and its destructive consequences at the feet of the institutional Church! It has been responsible for untold suicides, bashings, and murders; it has been responsible for lives lived in quiet and not so quiet desperation; it has been responsible for fracturing families as well as fracturing human beings within their families.

As I've written:

"Make no mistake, every drop of blood shed by GLBT people either through suicide, bashing, or murder, are on the hands of all those religious leaders, their followers, and their allies who spew forth their ignorance, prejudice, and hate against GLBT people and their relationships! These wolves in sheep’s clothing take the Bible, God’s love letter to His children, and selectively and perversely use it as a club to condemn others, and deny GLBT people full inclusion in the Church and in society.

"The tradition-bound parts of the Church have so indoctrinated people, many of whom have never even set foot in a house of worship, that many people even disown their own children when they 'come out' and divulge their sexual orientation to those whom they thought unconditionally loved and cherished them. There are many children living on the streets because their own parents trusted ignorant clergy and their followers over their God-given duty and privilege to nurture and embrace their own children!

The Church should concentrate on the real sins that deserve our attention and that cry out to God for redress, such as invading another country on false pretenses; the working poor who can't afford medical insurance; the Supreme Court ruling that people can't sue their insurance company in state court for denying needed medical services; many elderly people having to decide whether to buy food or medicine; the gigantic rip off perpetrated by drug companies, hospitals, and the medical establishment on sick and vulnerable people. Why not focus on and address issues such as these, instead of obsessing on who loves who and who sleeps with whom? Such obsession tells us much more about the pathetic and moribund state of much of the Church than it does about the reality of the lives of GLBT people".

To the degree that any professing Christian can keep silent in the face of the grinding oppression and destruction of others, it is to that degree that he/she had better examine his/her claim to being a "Christian!"

Rev. Dr. Jerry S. Maneker is Professor Emeritus of Sociology at California State University, Chico.He is an ordained priest in the Congregational Catholic Church, a division of the Independent Catholic Churches International (ICCI}

Visit his site christianlgbtrights.org/

Ex-gay Donnie McClurkin: "God delivered me from homosexuality"???

Now I'm looking at the headline, and see it's the same of old recipe for self-loathing gays! Ex-gay Donnie McClurkin attended Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama’s gospel concert in South Carolina this weekend, and decided to not only sing, but turn this spiritual gospel tour into a platform for the ex-gay myth and the pray away the gay myth!

CNN Transcript of Donnie McClurkin: “Jesus came for everybody. And God has called us to love everybody. Now don’t believe everybody tries to vilify a folk just to make another man’s campaign look bad. We believe that everybody should have the same rights. But there’s right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. [to audience] I don’t hear nobody here. We don’t believe in discrimination, we don’t believe in hatred. [to audience] I don’t hear anybody here. And if you do, you are in the wrong place at the wrong time. That’s the whole premise of God, that’s the whole premise of Christ–is Love Love Love. But there is a side of Christ that deals in judgement. And ALL sin, is against God. Even hypocrisy in the church, especially hypocrisy in the church.

Hallelujah. Everybody sittin’ here with baited breath wondering where I’m goin’ go next. Well, let’s make this plain. Let’s make this plain. Don’t call me a bigot, or anti-gay, when I have been touched with the same feelings. When I have suffered with the same feelings. Don’t call me a homophobe, when I love everybody. And that means I’m afraid, phobia means I’m afraid, I’m not afraid of anybody. Because greater is He that is in me. Don’t tell me that I stand up and say vile words against the gay community, because I don’t. I don’t speak against the homosexual. I tell you that God delivered me from homosexuality.

And no matter what you read on whatever blog you read it on. No matter what imaginary confession is given. Let me tell you the Bible says, that if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. The old things, the old people, the old ways–passed away. And behold. [to audience] Somebody scream real loud.”

Many pro-tolerance advocates and myself have said we do NOT object to Donnie's choice to to identify as ex-gay and to refrain from homosexual behavior. They object because McClurkin:

1.told The 700 Club — a Christian media outlet — that same-sex-attracted persons are child-killers and vowed to wage “war” — not peace nor Christian outreach — against gay people

2.mischaracterizes his ongoing sexual attraction to men as if it were fully overcome and declines to discuss his lack of significant attraction to women

3.asserts that because a handful of individuals with unstable or fluid sexual attraction claim to change, anyone can do it!

Also, Obama tried to help the situation by having a gay pastor open the concert with a prayer, however it was not a black gay pastor or affirming black pastor, but a white gay pastor! According to CNN’s Political Ticker blog, Sidden appeared only briefly at the concert, before much of the audience had even arrived, and refrained from mentioning sexuality.

South Carolina African-American gay activist Alvin McEwen attended a small protest outside the concert and wrote his observations:

"No matter how many times it was emphasized that none of us care about McClurkin’s personal decisions regarding his orientation, folks have continued to claim that we are angry at McClurkin’s belief that he is “ex-gay” rather than his statements against the lgbt community".

Justice MH's Final Thoughts: Many and so have I that we do NOT have anything against Donnie for his choice to identify as ex-gay, and refrain from homosexual behavior! Now these are my deeper views and a closer look into his testimony. Donnie gave the same ole' "God delivered me from homosexuality" speech! Biblical deliverance is from something demonic controlling a person. Is Donnie saying his attractions and desires are from demons[demonic forces]? Now let me say I do NOT believe in demons, nor do they exist! So why in the year 2007 not 207 A.D, we have blind faithful religious people still believing in ancient fears and superstitious? It's amazing because there is NO proof of demons, but the Catholic Church still believes in this nonsense! Most likely to keep catholics in fear and unnecessary superstitious ways.

Back to Donnie, he told the crowd to not believe the blogs, but believe the bible. I kindy laugh a little at that. Don't ask, I laugh at about everything. Anyway, Donnie must be talking about that unknown ex-lover he had back in the mid 2002-2004! He recently came forward on
clay cane's blog! It appears Donnie has enter his closet, in the dark, and can't find the door knob! Do I believe Donnie about God supposedly delivering him? Ummm, most likely no! I think he's now celibate. Think about it: No wife, kids, or even a girlfriend! He's 49, i think. Damn Donnie, at least fool me about your sexuality. Am I upset about him no-longer acting on his same-sex attraction or maybe in private to become attracted to the opposite? No, I am not upset at all! I respect it, and wish the best. God is love, and it doesn't and shouldn't matter who we love. So Donnie shouldn't turn this concert into a platform to make it known he's ex-gay, and doesn't act on the attractions! All I can do is wish the best for him! I still support Sen. Obama, and he most likely has my vote over Sen.Clinton in the Georgia Primary!

Barack Obama teams with Ex-gay Donnie McClurkin: More homophobes on tour, and responses from Donnie and Obama!!!

I'm running real late on this story. I have been hearing about it all day, and I felt i need to add my two cents. So it's already been confirm that Democratic White House hopeful Sen. Barack Obama has decided to have a gospel tour with reclosted homosexual Donnie McClurkin.

Here's the release:All three of the dates of the “Embrace the Change” tour are in South Carolina, where Mr. Obama is locked in battle with Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton for black voters.

Gospel acts including Mary Mary, Donnie McClurkin and Hezekiah Walker, Byron Cage and the Mighty Clouds of Joy are scheduled to appear.

“This is another example of how Barack Obama is defying conventional wisdom about how politics is done and giving new meaning to meeting people at the grassroots level,” Joshua DuBois, the campaign’s religious affairs director, said in a release. “This concert tour is going to bring new people into the political process and engage people of faith in an unprecedented way.”

Donnie is on record for saying sexual orientation is choice, also says you can pray the gay away. Donnie goes even lower with comparing gays to liars!

Heres a few quotes:McClurkin explains, "There are certain things like, you know, anybody who has a lying problem; they get to the point where they hate being so, having such a lack of character that they make a change."

In the same interview, McClurkin argues again that homosexuality is simply a lifestyle choice. "There's a group that says, 'God made us this way,' but then there's another group that knows God didn't make them that way," he says. Notice the circularity in his rhetoric. The people who say that God made them gay don't know what they're talking about because the people who say God did not make them gay are right. Well how do they know if someone was born gay or not if they are not gay themselves? It's insulting and presumptuous of others to tell gays and lesbians that they're not smart enough even to know who they are.

Just for the record Donnie is still unmarried, and he has church called Perfecting Faith Church in New York. Donnie is a Bush supporter. Many have said since Donnie performed and support Republican like President Bush, why is he performing for a Democrat? That's a answer only Donnie can give you. Donnie argues that us the gays who say that God made us with our sexual orientation is liars. I can only say that Donnie doesn't know what he's talking about at all! He claims to be deliver, but still single, and unmarried. I wonder why? Surely if you're deliver, then you should be able to function as a heterosexual, right?

There are more homophobes on this tour like gospel group Mary Mary (Erica and Tina Atkins), their confirm for the tour. Here's their quotes on how they feel about gays with comparing us to murderers and prostitutes, a Clay Cane interview:

Clay: I’m not sure if you are aware of this, but you have an extremely large gay following -- how do you feel about homosexuality and having a massive gay following?

Erica: We are aware. Ummm... how do I feel about homosexuality? I feel how God feels about it, but I still love them. I don’t agree with the lifestyle, but I love them. They can come to the concert; I’m going to hug them just like I hug everybody else. They have issues and need someone to encourage them like everybody else -- just like the murderer, just like the one full of pride, just like the prostitute -- everybody needs God. What your struggle is may not be what my struggle is, but we all need Him. So, that's what our music is about giving and God, not to condone the lifestyle or to say, Oh it's okay, but not to bash -- but just to give them God. I mean, I’m appreciative of all of our supporters and fans. Hopefully what their hearing in our music is my love for God.

Tina: You know, I think the fact that our music is very upbeat and works well in clubs -- you know, I think that's something that makes more people gravitate to it. Like Erica said, we don’t necessarily agree with the lifestyle, but we don’t pride ourselves on bashing. Everyone has things in their life that they need to correct, everybody has struggles, everybody has things that, maybe I should’ve done it this way, maybe I should’ve made this choice, you know, or whatever. Even though that's the way we feel, we don’t bash, we don’t do that kind of thing and we embrace everybody who enjoys our music. Hopefully our music is impacting them in a way that if they see there's some things in their life that's not quite right and doesn’t align themselves with what the Bible says -- hopefully our music impacts them in a way that makes them want to change it.

So they feel how God feels right? As my friend Jerry said: The bible is NOT God! Too many contradictions to be on God's level!

Donnie McClurkin responds with some back-tracking on his beliefs: Gospel music superstar Donnie McClurkin says he was surprised to wake up Tuesday morning to a media firestorm.

... McClurkin told The Associated Press on Monday that "sexuality, everything is a matter of choice." But on Tuesday he told the Tribune that his ideals, and most importantly his ministry, were severely misconstrued.
"I don't believe that even from a religious point of view that Jesus ever discriminated toward anyone, nor do I," McClurkin said in an exclusive interview with the Tribune. "Most of the things that were said were totally out of context and then other things weren't true."

Ok, Donnie do you know what you said in the past? Like here:McClurkin has devoted his life to saving children from the cult-like snares of the homosexual recruiters. "The gloves are off," he told the 700 Club. "And if there's going to be a war, there's going to be a war."

What about comparing us [gays] to liars: McClurkin explains, "There are certain things like, you know, anybody who has a lying problem; they get to the point where they hate being so, having such a lack of character that they make a change."

Donnie seems to have forgotten his quotes of the past. Obama issued his thoughts early this evening:

About 6:40 pm today, the Obama campaign issued a written statement from the candidate saying that he "strongly disagree(s)" with McClurkin's views. Still, a spokesman said McClurkin would remain part of the concert line-up.

"I have clearly stated my belief that gays and lesbians are our brothers and sisters and should be provided the respect, dignity, and rights of all other citizens. I have consistently spoken directly to African-American religious leaders about the need to overcome the homophobia that persists in some parts our community so that we can confront issues like HIV/AIDS and broaden the reach of equal rights in this country," Obama said in the written statement.

"I strongly believe that African Americans and the LGBT community must stand together in the fight for equal rights. And so I strongly disagree with Reverend McClurkin's views and will continue to fight for these rights as President of the United States to ensure that America is a country that spreads tolerance instead of division," the statement added.

Justice MH: I feel that Obama should have been smarter with who he wanted on this gospel tour in South Carolina. Who ever is on his campaign staff needs to be fired. This is forgivable, but i have to admit, it has push me some towards Hillary Clinton. I bet she having a ball watching this happen to obama. Obama still has me on the fence, I just hope next time think who before you invited those who inaccurate views on your supporters. Obama has what it takes to be President, and yes Captain, Obama will be President some day in the future. I hope this comes out in best interest of Obama's chances of becoming the Democratic nominee!

USA Survey/New Book: Cafeteria Evangelical Christians running Youth away from Christianity!!!

Since I'm part of the next generation, it's no surprise to see my generation question the dogma churches try to feed youth today. This study was done by Barna Study Group, and the group is widely quoted by conservative christian groups, groups like AFA to news sources like OneNewsNow. Young people are taking a good look at Christianity, and groups like AFA make this great faith look bad. Young people see it as i do, judgmental, hypocritical, and anti-gay! Take a look at a summary of the report:

A new study by The Barna Group conducted among 16- to 29-year-olds shows that a new generation is more skeptical of and resistant to Christianity than were people of the same age just a decade ago.

...Half of young churchgoers said they perceive Christianity to be judgmental, hypocritical, and too political. One-third said it was old-fashioned and out of touch with reality.

Interestingly, the study discovered a new image that has steadily grown in prominence over the last decade. Today, the most common perception is that present-day Christianity is "anti-homosexual." Overall, 91% of young non-Christians and 80% of young churchgoers say this phrase describes Christianity. As the research probed this perception, non-Christians and Christians explained that beyond their recognition that Christians oppose homosexuality, they believe that Christians show excessive contempt and unloving attitudes towards gays and lesbians. One of the most frequent criticisms of young Christians was that they believe the church has made homosexuality a "bigger sin" than anything else. Moreover, they claim that the church has not helped them apply the biblical teaching on homosexuality to their friendships with gays and lesbians.

Justice MH: Young People are using their intellect and reason to question the dogma that brainwashes them to have negative attitudes towards gays, and they also see how judgmental and hypocritical so-called Christians make Christianity look! Christ talks alot about this, but groups like AFA feel like their hate-crusade is approve by Jesus Christ himself, which I highly doubt! Cafeteria Christians throw out ridiculous phrases like "love the sinner, but hate sin". It's time for them to repent of their sins, shape up, or ship out!It's phrases like this, that give these Christians affirmation for their negative thoughts and feelings toward their fellow man. Today's young people are smarter, it's like I said, and the christian "wrong" fear this. My generation is gonna change America, for the better!

Has the NAACP lost their Mission?

Well, Mr.Broward thinks the NAACP should stick to racial injustice, and have nothing to do with the gays' struggle. The NAACP is quite aware of black gays and lesbians. The organization is a black one, so why not include gays who are black? This man misses the mark like so many black religious leaders. Here's his bigoted quote:


'The NAACP is getting away from their mission . . . the organization never got involved with sex sins. Homosexuals have masterfully redefined words to suit their cause . . . theirs is not a civil rights issue. It's the first time the branch has taken a public stand on behalf of gay rights."
--Mathes Guice, the paramilitary-clad director of the men's ministry at Koinonia Worship Center and former vice president of the Broward NAACP. He is miffed at the Broward NAACP's condemnation of his new best friend -- anti-gay, homosex-obsessed Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jim Naugle. Guice is also calling for a ''spiritual revival'' to "transform Fort Lauderdale and Broward County into the Bible Belt of South Florida.''

Justice MH: This man obviously thinks homosexuals don't have brown or dark skin. The Civil rights movements included black straights and gays. Now he can deny it if he wants, but the gays' struggle in the 21st century is a civil rights issue. Some will argue, but their arguments are weak, bias, and desperate. The definition of Civil rights is: Rights guaranteed to citizens; the rights provided by the 13th and 14th amendments of the United States Constitution. Homosexuals just happen to be tax-paying American citizens. It's like I said on this site many times: " you have the right to speak freely on any issue, but you do NOT have the right to deny any American the citizen their rights guaranteed by the U.S Constitution. Mrs. Coretta Scott King always refer to her husband's famous quote "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice anywhere".

The "View"s Co-Host Sherri Shepard": Doesn't know if earth is round or flat in the year 2007???

Sherri Shepherd has proven to me and others that when the bible is proven to be wrong or when it makes a boo-boo, then biblical perfections like sherri refuse to admit the book is wrong on this issue. Another note on those like sherri is they prove political consultants right, that Americans are easily proven to be ignorant. They vote poor leaders into office, who lead us into a senseless war like George W.Bush. I agree with fellow blogger claycane, sherri is the dumb negro of the week. I also agree with him on why do some Christans act like the bible is some accurate historical document? Well, you can call it blind faith, faith is good, but blind faith makes people believe things without enough proof or reason in it!

Take a look at this exchange with Whoopi and sherri, and see what i'm talkin about with having blind faith with no reason at all:

WHOOPI GOLDBERG: Is the world flat?
SHERRI SHEPHERD: Is the world flat? (laughter)
GOLDBERG: Yes.
SHEPHERD: …I Don't know.
GOLDBERG: What do you think?
SHEPHERD: I… I never thought about it, Whoopi. Is the world flat? I never thought about it.

Take a look at the video at this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ACobXN7_p8

Now that's a cop-out. Sherri doesn't want to admit the bible is wrong or made a mistake. I always said this and people close to me don't like it but:" If the bible was inspired, then the holy spirit is the author of error". Too many Christians are in denial! Take a look at Elisabeth Hasselbeck's poor defense of sherri:

HASSELBECK: I don’t think you have to learn to be perfect either… you’re just yourself. I thought you handled that so well yesterday. You said ‘You know I actually, my mind is full of what’s my son doing right now, what am I going to feed him for dinner, I’m a mom.’ Like I think that’s completely fine to say ‘You know what, today I don’t care if the earth is round or flat. I may not care tomorrow, I just wanna know that…’

Justice: When most Christians want to make it look like the bible is always accurate and correct like God, they make themselves look like fools.The bible has been shown to have contradictions and inconsistencies, and falsehoods[ex.earth is flat]! Note to Sherri: The earth is round. The bible just made a boo-boo/mistake. Get over it!

Take a look at Clay Cane's pic of Sherri's response base on her facial expression:

Local NAACP President Speaks out on gay rights and gets mixed Reviews from the Black Community!!!

The Homophobia being spewed from the Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jim Naugle and his recent anti-gay statements are nothing new, but I want to touch this issue going on in Florida.Local African-American ministers, such as the Rev. O’Neal Dozier, have spoken out in favor of Naugle. What is wrong with black ministers these days? Anytime in history, there is someone or group that's an easy target for hate and intolerance. However, someone did the unpopular thing and stood up and spoke out for what's right:

President of the Fort Lauderdale branch of the NAACP Ellison’s mission was clear: She would speak out against what she considered hate speech and discrimination, regardless of the fact that the offending words were aimed at the gay community, a community she is not charged with representing.

“Mayor Naugle’s message is about one thing — hate,” she said. “Homophobia is hate, and hate has no place in the beloved community.”

Justice MH: That's what it exactly is. It's really sad to see black ministers stand by people like this Mayor Naugle. Why must former oppress people now oppress someone else? I guess once you're finally sitting at the table, then it's your turn to take the next group and beat up on them with the traditional holy bullies!
Diverse Opinion in the Black Community!

Brad Bennett, executive editor of the Broward Times, a newspaper that covers the local black community, said it was “odd that she would speak out about gay issues.”

“Based on what I’m hearing from readers, I don’t think the Fort Lauderdale NAACP reflects the views of the larger black community,” he said. “Publicly, members of the community fall in line with the pastors.”

Justice MH: Wow! If members of the community fall in line with ignorant and bigoted pastors, then they are some sheep without any God-given brains! And how is it odd for a NAACP president to speak out on gay issues? Every family has a gay relative and everyone knows someone who is gay. It seems the next opinion knows what i'm talking about!

Everybody has somebody who is gay in their family or knows gay people,” said Larry Bowman, a used car salesman and regular at Betty’s. “I have to agree with [Ellison]. It’s hate speech. The mayor is asking for hatred to be cast upon him.”Dorothy Jackson, who works the counter at Betty’s agreed.

Bowman and Jackson said they respect gays and lesbians, but they also pointed out that their neighbors don’t normally discuss gay issues.

“Gay people is not a top issue,” Bowman said. “There are more important issues like the relationship of police officers and citizens. How are you going to relate to officers if you can’t trust them.”

Justice MH: Well, this sounds like decent people who actually make sense. Of course they admit that gay issues are rarely discuss in the black community, and a discussion like that needs to happen. The black community needs to try to get pass this and move forward. The next opinion didn't sit well with me, and it really piss me off!

Elder Solomon Williams and his sister, who would identify herself only as Mrs. Williams, sat at the counter to order a plate of ribs and steamed cabbage. They had a heavy, dog-eared Bible with them from which they quoted scripture. The Williams reflected much of the black fundamentalist point of view at Betty’s, saying the gay community was asking for special privileges.

Although Elder Williams agreed that a public official singling out one group amounts to discrimination, he said he considers Naugle as speaking “the word of God” against the unrighteous.

“Every man you see who loves another man, they knew God before they got into their condition,” Williams said.
Ellison recognizes that black opinion is largely influenced by the church regarding gay rights, but she notes that Naugle’s backers are not representative.

“You need to take note of the churches that were not present [at the Sept. 5th press conference],” she said.
The communities “super churches,” such as New Mount Olive Baptist and Mount Bethel Baptist

Justice MH: Ok, where shall i begin with these hypocritical views? First, if you love someone, how can you not know God anymore? I can guess where she's getting this from? Let me guess, another misinterpretation of Romans 1. Why is this woman using a medical term "condition"? I do NOT have a condition, or any other gay person have a "condition"! What's so special about having your relationship recognize? Job protection? Protected in hate crime laws on federal level? There is nothing special about that. It's what's guranteed in the U.S Consitution. The bible has no say in this, or any other civil-affairs/matters. I guess when the former oppress has what's rightfully there's, then when someone else comes along, the former oppress acts out on who deserves what. Again, black people are influenced by the hypocritical black church. Yeah, i said it, and I'm black. This woman carries a bible around like it's a body organ implanted by God. I agree with fellow blogger Jerry Maneker of http://christianlgbtrights.org the bible is NOT God. God is perfect and free of errors. The bible is the opposite! Why do black people insist on using that fallible, racist, sexist, and imperfect book on others? I call the bible fallible because the errors in the bible make it fallible, that makes it not infallible or inerrant. The contradictions and inconsistencies of the bible is NOT being ignored by biblical scholars or theologians. The bible isn't alone, the Koran is the same, and other holy books. The issue here is that blacks should be speaking out against people like Mayor Naugle, not standing with him because he hates those who you hate or doesn't measure to your standards, and speaks how you interpretate the bible. Like Coretta Scott King would say: Hate and bigotry should be oppose by right thinking Americans". She would say something like, it's not accurate. However, I don't see right-thinking Americans or even true Christians. It's that us vs. them mentality! Blacks are suppose to keep the dream alive, but instead we're turning it into a nightmare! After the gays, what group is next to be the target of intolerance, discrimination, hate, and bigotry?

The Trouble with Harry!!!

[This is a couple days old, but this really sums up my thoughts about homo-bigots like Bishop Harry Jackson! Enjoy-Justice MH]

By:Dr. Sylvia Rhue

Barak Obama appeared on LOGO and HRC’s presidential debate Thursday August 9. All of the candidates were asked about marriage equality for LGBT people. Although he is for full civil union rights, Obama feels he cannot open the door of equality all the way with full marriage rights for LGBT people. But even his moderate stance gets a berating from Bishop Jackson.

When speaking to a group of black ministers at a forum in Tennessee, Barak stated:

“I specifically pointed out that if there’s any pastor here who can point out a marriage that has been broken up as a consequence of seeing two men or two women holding hands, then we—you should tell me, because I haven’t seen any evidence of it…And there are some folks who, coming out of the church, have, you know, elevated one line in Romans above the Sermon on the Mount.”


Jackson’s response: “He’s dead wrong concerning what the scriptures say, and more importantly, he’s dead wrong in terms of the Scriptures, and in terms of reading culture. The culture has gone in a different direction, and the devaluation of marriage is a major problem, and I believe that he’s a very dangerous man because he sounds reasonable, he sounds engaging, but he’s misinformed.” Jackson goes on to call Obama a “junior or infant Christian.”

He states that “I think what most African- Americans buy is that there should be justice for all, in terms of the outworking of civil law. What they do not buy is that we should not rename sin as something righteous and holy.”

Bishop Jackson is dead wrong. It is Jackson who has an infantile understanding of human sexuality and a wrong headed theology regarding Christ’s message of inclusion. Jackson does not understand, or refuses to understand the concept of sexual orientation. Sexual orientation is morally neutral.

One of the definitions of the word “sin” is “to miss the mark”. Jackson misses the mark of the Love ethic for his gay and lesbian neighbors, which is central to Christian theology. When Bishop Jackson came to NBJC’s Black Church Summit this past Spring, he had the opportunity to look LGBT people in the eye and hear their stories of love, commitment, devotion, honor and duty. He nodded his head acting as if he understood. He acted as if he had learned something. Unfortunately, from his behavior and statements since that day, it was all just an act.

We should defer to an authentic Biblical scholar, Rev. Peter Gomes the Plummer Professor of Christian Morals at Harvard University, who writes: “No credible case against homosexuality or homosexuals can be made from the Bible unless one chooses to read scripture in a way that simply sustains the existing prejudice against homosexuality and homosexuals. The combination of ignorance and prejudice under the guise of morality makes the religious community, and its abuse of scripture in this regard, itself morally culpable.”

If Bishop Jackson ever thought he might be a drum major for justice, he has missed he mark.

Dr. Sylvia Rhue is Director of NBJC Religious Affairs. She can be reached directly at shrue@nbjc.org

The Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous: Mega Church Pastor Edition

[ Once again Jasymne Cannick gives great commentary on these mega-church money grabbing pastors. These type of pastors are back in the news with their extravagant lifestyle. Enjoy the post!-Justice MH]

by: Jasmyne Cannick- jasmynecannick.com

One of our favorite mega-church pastors is in the news…again.

The Dr. Reverend Fred K.C. Price has announced a lawsuit against ABC, Walt Disney Co., and others for a “20/20” report that made him look like he lives an extravagant lifestyle. Yes, this is for real.

You may remember previous postings on Price that included his decision in 2005 to host a gathering of one hundred Black pastors at his Crenshaw Christian Center with the conservative Traditional Values Coalition’s Lou Sheldon. During that meeting, Price who for the most of his career has steered clear of politics, urged the pastors to have their congregations lobby African-American legislators to vote against marriage rights for same-gender loving couples.

Then there was the time we all went down to City Hall in Los Angeles to speak against making taxpayers, which include lesbians and gays, pay for a street sign dedicated in his honor. While we won that battle, the sign went up anyway, it just wasn’t paid for out of our pockets.

Price’s lawsuit is the product of “20/20” broadcast headlined “Enough,” where the supposedly extravagant lifestyles of wealthy ministers — based upon them secretly spending their congregation’s donations on themselves, a topic we love here at jasmynecannick.com.

And for the record, Price does live in the ritzy neighborhood Palos Verdes, miles away from his church which is situated on the heart of South Los Angeles. Add to that his two Bentley’s. The lawsuit reads that Price’s salary, which church officials declined to disclose, is “commensurate with his duties.” Yeah, you can believe that if you want too. While your parishioners are scrapping together their coins for blessings from you, you’re living at the top of hill bringing home anywhere from six to seven figures. Go figure?

I think that the same rule that applies to politicians should be extended to pastors, live where your church is. My folks from Los Angeles know that Palos Verdes is no where near his church and that the number of Blacks living in PV are far and few between, primarily because homes there start in the millions and quite frankly most of ain’t rolling like that.

In question is an excerpt that aired in the “20/20” broadcast that featured a sermon where talks about living in a “25-room mansion, I have my own $6 million yacht, I have my own private jet and I have my own helicopter and I have seven luxury automobiles.” Price is supposedly using all those things as an example and not speaking on his own life.

The “20/20” piece aired on ABC back in May and since then Price has been working overtime to do damage control, even putting a video on Youtube.com questioning the ABC piece. ABC has issued two retractions but that isn’t good enough for Price, he wants money, or should I say more of it.

Price isn’t alone. He’s one of many Black pastors that do what I call “pimp the pulpit.”

It is my assumption that ABC’s piece drastically affected Price’s weekly intake at his church thus throwing him into a tizzy causing him too sue for the money he’s losing. And for that, well, we’ll just have to wait and see what the outcome of the lawsuit is.

There will be no sympathy from me for Price or any other pastor that lives like royalty while their parishioners are barely making ends meet.

Justice MH: Amen Jasmyne! Mega-Church pastors are really making that cash. I'm really NO fan of this Rev. Price! He looks greedy, and a wolf in sheep clothing. It's NOT right to use hard-earn money to buy yourself big expensive cars, and rich looking house! All I can say is they use their bully-pit as i like to call it as their instrument for money, fame, and condemnation! As Jasmyne said it's nothing but a job to " pimp the pulpit"!

WBC Says: God Hates the USA!

Is it any surprise how the Westboro Baptist Church acknowledge the Minnesota bridge disaster? Well take a look at this Press Release:



The Phelps Family really think they know God. The sad thing about their perception about God is it comes from the Old Testament. The Hebrew Bible perception of God is up for a new perception, which there are many perceptions of God. So, how can the Phelps interpret the Minnesota Bridge disaster as God hating America? For Cafeteria Christian they love to use derogatory names to describe gays, that sure isn't Christ-like! They honestly believe they are giving people God's Word. I find that laughable! It's no secret that Man has always use God and hide behind God to express their evil thinking/feelings. Jesus said you would know them by their fruit. The Phelps Family happens to produce rotten fruit. God doesn't hate. The Phelps Family hates the USA, Canada, Sweden, and the World! Man hates, NOT God!

Alan Chambers Pt.1: The Opposite of Homosexuality!

According to Alan Chambers the opposite of homosexuality isn't heterosexuality. I know that's what I thought. However, Alan says it's holiness. OK, now I've heard everything. Here's how he tells his audience what to expect of so-called "change":

And I’m going to shatter your world here: heterosexuality shouldn't’t be your number one goal. Whether that’s for yourself or for your kid or for your loved one or your friend or your family member. Heterosexuality shouldn't’t have been my number one goal. The opposite of homosexuality isn’t heterosexuality. It’s holiness.

And I think we in the church often get that wrong. We think, okay, the best thing for this person who’s involved with homosexuality or involve with lesbianism is that they come out of that lifestyle and go into heterosexuality. If that’s all we think is necessary, we’re setting people up for a terrible fall. The opposite of homosexuality isn’t heterosexuality. It’s holiness.


Ok! What i don't get is, isn't that the purpose of some people's so-called unwanted same-sex desires? I mean if isn't heterosexuality, then it's holiness. Justice MH, and other gay bloggers know when he says holiness, he's implying that some-how in his struggling[still gay] brain that homosexuality is wicked. It also reinforces a larger theme of the conference, that homosexuality is incompatible with Christianity. Which it isn't, of course some think and feel that way. So casting homosexuality on the same side of the spectrum as wickedness is a terribly damaging way to characterize the lives of gays and lesbians everywhere. Besides, heterosexuality is not, in and of itself, holy either.

According to Alan, same sex attractions may not necessarily diminish no matter how hard one tries or how many prayers are said. Instead, the “change” that takes place is not a change in sexual orientation; it’s a change in faith. The “conversion” is not sexual orientation conversion, it’s a religious one. Alan, those like him, may feel holy, but it doesn't change sexual orientation. I'm just using Alan's words and logic. If the opposite of homosexuality is NOT heterosexuality. Then how can you say you're a heterosexual? Alan says he identify as "straight". Alan is so contradicting and inconsistent with himself and his audience. So according Alan, do we have a new minority coming up called the holies?


This reminds me of what Ex-gay Charlene Cothran said when interviewed with blogger Clay Cane:Are you physically attracted to men?
Charlene: [pauses] I am physically attracted to the spirit of Christ right now. You're trying to take me down a road that I won't go down right now.

Ok, some of these reclosted gays make me laugh at the nonsense they talk. Whoever said Charlene's story was inspiring is a backwards thinking Cafeteria wannabe christian fool! How you doing Pat Robinson and The Captain? Both Alan and Charlene make it seem like a new minority is coming. One thinks their holy now, and the other thinks their attractive to spirits and ghosts! The Opposite of homosexuality for both Alan and Charlene is confusing according to their tale of a testimony!

It's like I said sexual orientation does NOT change, but your religion can! You certainly can't pray the gay away!

[This is a mini-series on Ex-gays. Part 2 later today! More updates coming-Justice MH!]

BET Poll: Black Church and Homosexuality

BET's Meet the Faith is hosted by the hot Ian Smith. The guests were
Keith Boykin and Sheryl Lee Ralph who really spoke out with passion and reason about the black church and homosexuality.

Meet the Faith ran a poll to ask viewers to express their personal opinions on the subject. The results are as follow:

The Poll

We asked you, "Should the Black church stop condemning and start accepting Black gays and lesbians?" And here's how you voted:

About 64 percent of you said, "No. Most Christians believe it's wrong, and if you see people going down the wrong path, you should try to save them."

About 29 percent of you said, "Yes. Religion should be about love and tolerance."

About 7 percent of you said, "I don't know."

We also asked you, "Is homosexuality a choice or natural preference?"

About 61 percent of you said, "It's a choice."

About 24 percent of you said, "It's a natural preference. You're born that way."

Justice MH: Should I be surprise that 61% believe homosexuality is choice? No. There is still alot of work to be done on this important issue. The ones in the 64% group say that we need saving. From what? From being who we are, and living in truth! It's amazing how some people will tell others that their path, who they are, and who they love is wrong. You can't get much hypocritical than that. I wonder how the poll would have turn out if heterosexuality was being question? I bet there would be some sort of difference. Over 20% said religion should be about peace and tolerance. The black church continues to do the opposite. Some zealot black preacher take couple of bible verses out context, and hammer their gay church members into low-self esteem, and closet case mode. We have cross the river on race, but there is still one more river to cross on sexual orientation!

Doing God's Work???

And they want to say this hate crimes bill is unnecessary. Yeah right!Tell that to the family of Kenneth Cummings Jr., a Southwest flight attendant, who was killed by a man who believed he was doing God's work. Religion creates some crazy people, but that's religion for you, when there's no reason! {Houston Chronicle}:

"I believe I'm Elijah, called by God to be a prophet," said 26-year-old Terry Mark Mangum, charged with murder June 11. " ... I believe with all my heart that I was doing the right thing."
Interviewed in the Brazoria County Jail Saturday morning, Mangum said he feels no remorse for killing 46-year-old Kenneth Cummings Jr., whom relatives described as a "loving" son who never forgot a holiday and a devoted uncle who had set up college funds for his niece and nephew. He worked at Southwest for 24 years.

Mangum, who described himself as "definitely not a homosexual," said God called on him to "carry out a code of retribution" by killing a gay man because "sexual perversion" is the "worst sin."

Mangum believed Cummings to be gay.

"I planned on sending him to hell," he said.

Cummings was stabbed with a six-inch blade, his body was found near San Antonio on property owned by Mangum's grandfather.

While there are some who are debating about whether there should be hate crimes law, the fact is their on the books. So why not sexual orientation and gender identity to make sure every American is protected by bias hate crimes. Religion is already included-- protection which these cafeteria Christians aren't willing to give up. After all religion is a choice!

Furthermore, it's the religious extremists who claim to be "christian", by their mouths, but it always seems their hearts are far away from God. Isaiah and Jesus said something like that. The usual suspects are no surprise--the Traditional Values Coalition, the American Family Association, Concerned Women for America and the rest of the professional persecuted "Christian" set-- who just love to hide behind and use misguided homo-hating black pastors.


Rustin Thomas came up with this insane statement:
Yes, I dare state that there is a direct connection between the sins and crimes of abortion and the sodomite agenda and the Islamic terrorism that threatens our nation."

Once again sodomite is NOT a biblical term, and I have never been to Sodom and Gomorrah. The two cities God supposedly destroyed.

Another black puppet was brought out as expected.Here's Rev. Johnny Hunter of the Life Education and Resource Network:

"Pastors not only have a right, but they have an obligation to state emphatically that according to scripture, a man or a woman should not perform a sex act with a person of the same sex...nor with a dog...nor with a snake...nor with a hamster or any other creature."

How the hell he bring humans in with animals? Who would have sex with hamster, snake, or dog? I have heard of a dog before, but that's just freaky! Eww.

They know that they can quote and take Leviticus and Romans out context all day long if the measure is passed. The ACLU has outlined how free speech will be protected, but no that doesn't matter in their minds. Is this Doing God's Work? Ha, You better ask somebody!

[more updates to come-Justice MH]

Moral Riot:'sodomy pushers' versus the Bush admin

The Cafeteria bible thumping bigots held their misguided press conference protesting the hate crimes bill. They continue to bear false witness that adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the existing law will threaten their religious freedom. The U.S Constitution and the hate crime bill itself strengthens free speech, but it appears they really don't care. It's all about denying others the right to federal protections from violence. These Cafeteria Christians also offered some new terms in how they describe gays as sodomy pushers. So add "sodomy pushers" to your gay dictionary. Let's see "gay agenda", homosexual agenda, sodomite, gay lifestyle, and homosexual lifestyle. Yup, that sounds like their language.

Here's what this Cafeteria Christian had to say:

Dr. Johnny Hunter of Life Education and Resource Network was among the several Christian activists who spoke at Wednesday's rally protesting S.B. 1105. Hunter contends crime by its nature is an act of hate.
"The hate crimes legislation being proposed by rabid sodomy-pushers is downright hatred," said Hunter, adding that he believes the move behind the bill is a "scheme" devised by "hetero-phobic" people.
"They insist that the government police the thoughts of those who have a natural attraction to the opposite sex," he offered as explanation of his assertion. "It's as if they despise and hate heterosexual couples." And the controversy, he insisted, is not about what people do in the privacy of their bedrooms. "It's about what others disapprove -- and when someone is doing the unmentionable in their bedroom, flaunting it publicly, and then punishing those who speak out against it."
Offering an analogy, Hunter said "just because a bank robber counts the money in the privacy of his bedroom does not legitimize the robbery."

Justice MH: Ok, so this fool uses the analogy of gays and bank robbery? How the hell you compare a criminal and an American citizen who is guarantee equal right under the law, no matter how much he bitches about it! He goes on to say gays are heterophobic? LOL! Larwd, I'm not going there. Anyway the hate crimes clearly out lines "Nothing in this act, or the amendments made by this Act, shall be construed to prohibit any expressive conduct protected from legal prohibition by, or any activities protected by the free speech or free exercise clauses the First Amendment to the Constitution" the hate crime bill says.

I agree with fellow blogger over at http://pamshouseblend.com

I think the real struggle we face when it comes to moral rot in this country is dealing with the fact that we have to wait until January 2009 for all the morally and ethically depraved criminals in the Bush Administration, who have left us more vulnerable to terrorism, finally get out of the White House. That place needs to be fumigated after their departure. The people who elected Dear Leader -- fundies like the above surely cast their votes for him based on "values" -- are blind when it comes to the litany of lies and obfuscation perpetrated by the Bush administration.

Justice MH: Indeed pam. The hate crimes threaten no one's free speech. It's time we admit what already is known to be true.

Pope: Other Christians not true churches

The Pope and the Catholic Church is still with that crap. Don't they ever learn? When you say things like that, you create unnecessary holy wars, and confrontations.

[AP]:

Pope Benedict XVI reasserted the primacy of the Roman Catholic Church, approving a document released Tuesday that says other Christian communities are either defective or not true churches and Catholicism provides the only true path to salvation.

The backlash and criticism:

Protestant leaders said: "It makes us question whether we are indeed praying together for Christian unity," said the World Alliance of Reformed Churches, a fellowship of 75 million Protestants in more than 100 countries.
"It makes us question the seriousness with which the Roman Catholic Church takes its dialogues with the reformed family and other families of the church," the group said in a letter charging that the document took ecumenical dialogue back to the era before the Second Vatican Council.

The 200 page documents' quotes: The commentary repeated church teaching that says the Catholic Church "has the fullness of the means of salvation."Christ 'established here on earth' only one church," The other communities "cannot be called 'churches' in the proper sense" because they do not have apostolic succession — the ability to trace their bishops back to Christ's original apostles — and therefore their priestly ordinations are not valid, it said.

Justice MH: After reading through some of those quotes from the 200 page document, i can see why there are wars between religions or different secs of religions. I have said this before everyone is entitle to believe how they choose, or if they don't want to. For the Catholic Church to say they hold the truth and salvation is blasphemy. They have no respect for other Christian Churches and even other religions. Every religion has it's truth. It's very hypocritical for someone of another religion or a sec of that religion to say what you believe is wrong, and mine is right. Every human being has the right to a certain Christian denomination or another religion. Every religion may have different views and beliefs. For the sake of World peace, we can at least come down to a universal creed: love God, love one another!

Hypocrite thy Republican: Anti-gay Senator on DC Madam's Phone list

The GOP is always talking about how they stand for moral and family values. However, it always seem they get caught with their pants down[pun intended] with these sex scandals etc. The Republican hypocrite David Vitter (R-LA), a co-author of the Federal Marriage Amendment, wasn't protecting his own marital vows when he had some sex-for-hire from escort service Pamela Martin and Associates before he ran for the Senate. Sen. Vitter is trying to outlaw someone else right to marry, and he's enjoying some unfaithful activity with some sex-for-hire women. These GOP family values gets interesting everyday. It was in 1998, the then GOP-led Congress tried to impeach then President Bill Clinton. Republicans show just how hypocritical they can be when their own sex secrets come out.

Since his name was recently revealed in the phone records, he had confess his unfaithfulness. Base on this, he can't control his sexual desires. However, there are people who love to throw out how gays can't control their sexual desires. So Sen. Vitter had to go through the usual process to look like typical Republican who needs forgiveness- God, wife, and he's so sorry, and i mean sorry [that he was caught]:

"This was a very serious sin in my past for which I am, of course, completely responsible," said Vitter in a statement. "Several years ago, I asked for and received forgiveness from God and my wife in confession and marriage counseling. Out of respect for my family, I will keep my discussion of the matter there-with God and them. But I certainly offer my deep and sincere apologies to all I have disappointed and let down in any way."
...In 2004, Vitter campaigned with a promise of "protecting the sanctity of marriage," and was a co-author of the "Federal Marriage Act" that sought to prohibit courts from interpreting same-sex marriage laws.
"This is a real outrage. The Hollywood left is redefining the most basic institution in human history," he said then.

Justice MH: Pa-leeze! This human institution has been change or redefine throughout history. The institution Sen. Vitter speaks of is NOT as basic and human as he or anyone else thinks!

From Sen Vitter's Website:

"We need a U.S. Senator who will stand up for Louisiana values, not Massachusetts's values. I am the only Senate Candidate to coauthor the Federal Marriage Amendment; the only one fighting for its passage. I am the only candidate proposing changes to the senate rules to stop liberal obstructionists from preventing an up or down vote on issues like this, judges, energy, and on and on."


Justice MH: Yeah, we need a bias Senator that doesn't make sure everybody is equal under the law. Sen.Vitter you can learn a thing or two from Massachusetts' inclusive values for all it's citizens in that state. The fact is the Federal Marriage Amendment will NEVER pass in a GOP control or Democratic control Congress! Nothing personal, just reality for the readers. Who knows where this latest GOP sex scandal will go. The GOP's sex secrets and scandals shows the party is full of hypocrisy. The GOP ask for forgiveness, have a moment of shame, then back to business as usual. Until the next GOP that is.

Shirley Phelps has been Charged for Misuse of U.S Flag

Poor Shirley, should i feel sorry for her? Hell no! It's like i said before negativity breeds negativity. It looks like God isn't happy with her ungodly and misrepresented ways on who God is.

Here's how it went down:

A 10-year-old boy stomping on a U.S. flag has landed his mother in legal hot water.
Shirley Phelps-Roper is a member of a Kansas group that protests at soldiers' funerals, claiming the troop deaths are God's punishment for American acceptance of homosexuals.[Where do these religious fanatics come up with this stuff?]

Phelps-Roper said she let her son stand on a flag at a Nebraska funeral, but that it qualifies as freedom of expression. She plans to fight the constitutionality of the flag-mutilation charge.[Freedom of expression my ass! This woman will use American liberties to bail her out of her hatred for America. She's the one that said God hates America]

She has been charged with negligent child abuse, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, flag mutilation and disturbing the peace. Nebraska law forbids mutilating, defacing, defiling, burning, or trampling on a flag.

The American Civil Liberties Union will probably defend Phelps-Roper and is just waiting for official approval.

Justice MH: I really hope she gets what's coming to her. If you hate this country, why live here? Some people get pleasure out of their hate. All this "God hates" stuff is blasphemy. It's really sad people like Shirley Phelps has created a God out their human imperfect ways, but they are not the first to do this kind of stuff. This has happen countless times. Now she wants to use America's Civil Liberties to get her out of trouble. The same country she says God hates. The reason she says is because this country tolerates, and gaining acceptance of homosexuals. Oh wow, did God tell her that, or did she come up with that with hateful thinking? Clearly, the reason is because of her hateful thinking, and poor scholarship of the bible. I hope she receives her punishment, and learn how to love and appreciate this country!

What does this have to do with Hate Crimes???

Question: Have they no decency? The American Family Association, Focus on the Family, and other "pro-family" groups have been lying right and left far right about proposed hate crimes legislation, claiming such would prevent their right to preach against homosexuality. These pro-family groups will keep bearing false witness just so they can get their little cruel plan to succeed. I guess they don't think the First Amendment protects all speech including religious speech, but they don't care about that. They want to keep the hate crimes federal law a special club, and i guess we don't qualify on their terms. Well, this country doesn't legislate bias religious views.

So how low can they go? Well if you call running a three different newspapers ad in and around a Virginia town.

Ok, what does this have to do with hate crimes laws? Nothing! These Cafeteria Christians[my new nickname for these types] are desperate, and seem to NOT have faith in their beloved President Bush.It's intersting they say "[t]he proposed law would make it a crime to preach on Romans Chapter 1 or I Corinthians Chapter 6. Or even to discuss them in a Sunday School class." Huh? I never read that nowhere in the bill. These arguments have are baseless. These some cripple-thinking-hypocrites who have NO shame in their game. I already cover those two bible verse their mentioning, so whatever! If you tell a lie enough, it becomes a form of truth. Doesn't it say "thou shalt not lie"? I tell you, these Christian values are knew to me. I wonder what Christ would say about these 21 Century Pharisees? After looking at that ad, you can't get any lower than that, or can you?

Former Ex-gay Leaders issue Public Apologies!!!

It was yesterday in Los Angeles,Ca,former Exodus leaders publicly apologized for their involvement in the ex-gay movement. Darlene Bogle, Michael Bussee and Jeremy Marks each shared their own personal statements and then Michael read out the shared statement. They all signed the apology and presented it to ex-gay survivors who were present at the press conference.

Jeremy Marks, former head of Exodus Europe stated,

Perhaps I should take this opportunity first to say how sorry I am, and to ask forgiveness from all my fellow Gay, Lesbian Bisexual and Trans-gendered people who might be listening to this—for my part in colluding with the religious right in the Western world. Though at the time we did not see it this way, our collusion involved setting up and maintaining an oppressive anti-gay, and I must also say equally anti-Christian view of homosexuality, that profoundly dishonors Jesus Christ and has betrayed the Gospel.

Michael Busse, one of the original founders of Exodus shared some of the realities he witnessed during his time at Exodus recounting the good and the bad.

I need to say that some had a positive, life-changing experience attending our Bible studies and support groups. They experienced God’s love and the welcoming fellowship of others who knew the struggle. There were some real “changes”—but not one of the hundreds of people we counseled became straight.

Instead, many of our clients began to fall apart – sinking deeper into patterns of guilt, anxiety and self-loathing. Why weren’t they “changing”? The answers from church leaders made the pain even worse: “You might not be a real Christian.” “You don’t have enough faith.” “You aren’t praying and reading the Bible enough.” “Maybe you have a demon.” The message always seemed to be: “You’re not enough. You’re not trying hard enough. You don’t have enough faith.”

Justice MH: I think that is just a shame to tell some people! You're not praying enough? You're not a real Christian? Who says all Christians are straight? You're not reading the bible enough? To be honest, reading a contradictory book will NOT change a person's sexual orientation, and you certainly can't pray the gay away! It's a demon? Good LAWRD! What year is it? 2007, yeah i know, but someone needs to remind these people what year and century it is! When you can't figure out the causes of something, all kinds of insane stuff come out of people's mouth!

Next Apology:

Darlene Bogle gave a moving apology that got a number of people in the audience crying during the press conference. CNN showed some of the footage on the Paula Zahn Show last night.

My heart was in the right place, but my message was not. I apologize to those individuals and families who believed my message that change was necessary to be acceptable to God. In recent years I have seen the resulting damage from rejection, shame, and conditional love. I apologize for my part in presenting a God of conditional love, and ask forgiveness for the message of broken truth I spoke on behalf of Exodus.

Justice MH: This is long overdue, but it's good hear these founder and former leader apologize for the damage that were cause by the Exdous and other ex-gay ministries.
The Ex-gay Survivor Conference is tomorrow, and i will more that in the upcoming posts!

Religious Groups Show their Pride in NY!!!

Religious Groups led through the streets of New York City a gay pride parade that feature a jumble of drag queens in feather boas, marching bands, motorcycle-riding lesbians, rugby players and samba dancers. The event was a true show of pride for everyone in attendence.

We stand for a progressive religious voice," said Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum of New York City's Congregation Beth Simchat Torah. "Those who use religion to advocate an anti-gay agenda, I believe, are blaspheming God's name."

Amen Rabbi! Not only anit-gay, but anti-female, anti-science, and anti-black is blaspheming in God's name! However, they have no shame!

Kleinbaum, who heads the world's largest predominantly gay synagogue, and the Rev. Troy Perry, founder of the Metropolitan Community Church, were the New York parade's grand marshals, waving from hers-and-his convertibles.

The march took place days after the New York State Assembly passed a bill legalizing same-sex marriage, which Gov. Eliot Spitzer supports. Although the bill is unlikely to pass the Republican-controlled state Senate anytime soon, parade-goers said they were cheered by the Assembly's action.

This is one very important step toward full equality for all New Yorkers," Kleinbaum said.
City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, one of the nation's most prominent openly gay elected officials, said she could not predict when the Senate might approve same-sex marriage.

As in past years, exhibitionists were also on display as the parade inched down Fifth Avenue and into Greenwich Village. Some revelers gyrated in bikini briefs and pranced in spike heels.

But the placement of the Christian, Jewish and Buddhist religious organizations near the head of the march — ahead of AIDS service groups and political advocacy groups — gave them unaccustomed prominence.

The gay Catholic group Dignity had a float and a giant rainbow flag. Jeff Stone, secretary of the New York chapter, said he was hopeful the church would someday change its stance opposing homosexuality.

"We see that the opinion of ordinary Catholics is changing," he said. "Eventually what happens at the grass roots percolates up in the church."

Mayor Michael Bloomberg marched with Quinn and other elected officials, including Lt. Gov. David Paterson.

Toni Cinanni of Perth, Australia, said she was surprised at the prominence of the church groups.

"I thought the religious groups had hijacked the parade," she said. "I couldn't put it together, religion and sexuality."

New York's parade featured contingents of gay police officers and firefighters, as well as ethnic gay groups including South Asians, Haitians and American Indians. An Argentinian and Uruguayan group featured an Eva Peron impersonator in a flowing gown.
Tens of thousands of people attended the march. Spectators lining Fifth Avenue included gay people sporting rainbow flags and curious tourists

Justice MH Final Thoughts: It's great to see religious groups showing pride. The mayor, and other New York public Officals was great to see there! Religious groups see that everyone is God's creation, and are celebrating who they are!