Posted on Apr 23, 2008 | by Staff

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)--Baptist Press today is launching the first part in a series of monthly columns about the issue of homosexuality, focusing particularly on the freedom that former homosexuals have found in Christ.

The SBC Task Force on Ministry to Homosexuals is coordinating the columns in a partnership with Baptist Press. Each month, a columnist will address an aspect about the issue of homosexuality. This month's columnist is Tim Wilkins, founder and director of CROSS Ministry, which reaches out to homosexuals and equips churches to do the same. Wilkins is a former homosexual.

"I believe these testimonies will help encourage our churches to reach out to those trapped in homosexual lifestyles," said Will Hall, executive editor of Baptist Press. "There are numerous Christians who formerly were homosexual and whose stories need to be heard. Their testimonies are eye-opening and uplifting, and, I believe, will serve to encourage Southern Baptists and other Christians to carry the Gospel to the homosexual community."

Bob Stith, the national strategist for gender issues for the Southern Baptist Convention, agreed.

"These columns will provide an opportunity for a wide audience to read these very real stories of heartache, hope and change, and to hear a comment on the culture from a unique perspective," Stith said. "It is my prayer that this column and the ones to follow will encourage our churches -- and the individuals in those churches -- to reach out in love and ministry to those among us who struggle with unwanted same-sex attraction.

"The SBC entities have been tremendously supportive of the work of the task force, and I am grateful for this new partnership with Baptist Press."
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Compiled by Michael Foust, assistant editor of Baptist Press.