“By now you’ve likely heard RNS News report that Dr. Russell Moore has supposedly “denounced reparative therapy” for same-sex attracted individuals who wish to change their sexual attractions and join the ex-gay community. But if you read all of Moore’s statements, you cannot find him downright rejecting sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE).”

Did you know that September is ex-gay awareness month? Honestly, I did not realize such a commemoration took place either until last year. I received an invitation to attend the first annual Ex-Gay Awareness Month Conference hosted by Voice of the Voiceless , Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays and Gays , and Equality And Justice For All. This  introduction coupled with stories shared by some of the most courageous men and women I’ve yet to encounter illumined me to the love and support the ex-gay community deserves as they face tremendous hostility from gay activists.

But it’s not just gay activists who belittle the ministry of ex-gay awareness advocates, therapists and support group leaders. By now you’ve likely heard RNS News report that Dr. Russell Moore has supposedly “denounced reparative therapy” for same-sex attracted individuals who wish to change their sexual attractions and join the ex-gay community. But if you read all of Moore’s statements, you cannot find him downright rejecting sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE). Instead, he’s putting therapy in its place on the hierarchy of healing, as I explained over at The Christian Post while rejecting that notion that the solution is ultimately change.

Unfortunately, the voices not heard in this sudden revival of debate are those within the ex-gay community, many of whom have used therapy for wise counsel, accountability and healing.

Perfectly named Voice of the Voiceless (VOV), this non-profit advocates for “the rights of former homosexuals and encourages faith-based communities to love and support individuals dealing with unwanted same-sex attraction.” VOV’s co-founder and President is Christopher Doyle, an identifying ex-gay now husband, psychotherapist, educator, author, and an advocate whose ministry I have grown to greatly respect over the past year.

Because of the deeply emotional attachments to discussions regarding sexual orientation change, it is vital we hear from those whose lives and work are affected by such efforts. Please read Doyle’s thoughtful, personal reflection in its entirety shared to me via email. Below is Doyle’s official response :

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