Welcome to His Way Out Ministries

April 2005 Highlights

Sunlight Beyond the Clouds

Picking up the pieces of life after receiving disturbing news can be a very difficult task. When someone you love is homosexual, you become acutely aware that apart from the grace and provision of God, the ability to face the emotional tidal waves of life is virtually impossible.

Heaven knows, when homosexuality hits a marriage, an appropriate question to pose is..."God, where do I go from here?" Indeed, you will need wisdom, patience, perseverance and God-given peace that only He is truly able to supply. And, maybe, just maybe, God will enable you to still see His hand woven threads of grace running through the myriad of emotions.

Sunlight Beyond the Clouds A Testimony by Ginny Mitchell

I had a surprising experience recently while taking a flight out of Bakersfield. On my way to the airport, I was observing the cloud covered sky. There was not even one ray of sunlight up there and it was so cold, it felt like there was snow in the air!

As my plane ascended that day, we quickly broke through that blanket of gray and entered bright sunlight and blue skies. My physical being and spirit were immediately energized by this traumatic change. I was already excited about being on vacation and this beautiful transformation in the sky only added to my joy.

It wasn't but a week later after my vacation had come to an end and I was back home getting into the daily routine, that God decided to give me opportunity to apply the spiritual application to what I had experienced in the physical as I was on the plane.

It was New Year's Eve day and I awakened to a severe pain in my neck. What a damper on my day. Before going off to an appointment with a massage therapist, I sat before the Lord and as I was looking out the window from my study, I noticed the blue sky and the bright sunlight that morning. I was reminded of the uplifting feeling I felt when the plane went above the cloud cover. It was as if the Lord was reminding me that I did not have to let this pain ruin my day. So, I asked the Lord to allow me to rise above my cloud cover.

I went on to have an amazing day and I pursued help for my pain. I was still in pain, but God's grace was abundant. As I leaned into Him, He allowed me to do many things and to do them with enjoyment. While God didn't take the pain away, He did make a way for me to bear it. As I put my eyes on Him, He allowed me to rise above my difficult situation.

I can see how that same spiritual application has been in effect in my life, especially in the past five years, as I have had to deal with the issue of homosexuality touching my life. Homosexuality, like many other issues, when experienced on a personal level can be like waking up everyday to a dreary gray sky. The sunlight may be intense in Bakersfield, but in the heart...

My former husband is homosexual, and it has been five years being on my own, but what I have discovered is that I'm not really on my own. In the process of recovery, the Lord allows me to experience the pain (the cloudy days). As I spend time with Him, He allows me to rise above the sadness of the situation and experience His "Son light." Again, much like what I experienced in the physical on the plane, but in my spirit. What a gracious God we serve! It was so loving of God to reveal Himself to me on the plane that day. However, here on the ground the challenge remains. Daily, with life situations, whether they are positive or negative, I must choose: Will I let the situation(s) consume me or will I focus on Him? The Light is above!

Ginny Mitchell

Closing Words From Pastor Phillip Lee....

It's amazing! With the Supreme Court legalizing homosexuality throughout America, numerous television shows promoting homosexuality as an acceptable, alternate lifestyle, and with all of the flurry over same-sex marriage, His Way Out Ministries is seeing more individuals saying good-bye to homosexuality than ever before in the ten years of our ministry. As well, we have seen a huge increase in the number of parents, spouses, siblings, churches and friends of those involved in homosexuality come our way for encouragement, support and education regarding the complexities of homosexuality.

Your financial support enables us to fight the good fight. Without a doubt, we at His Way Out Ministries need to be stronger than ever, ready to face the challenge of this generation with truth and integrity. A key to our success is the need for additional staff to handle our present demands for ministry and to prepare for the future. Would you please renew your commitment to His Way Out Ministries or consider supporting us on a monthly basis? We are more committed than ever to proclaiming the Lord's transforming power through our lives, and equipping the Church to authenticate that healing. Your support helps us to make known the relevance of Jesus and His Church to broken lives. Please give today. Information on how to donate to His Way Out is located at the bottom of this page.

Prayerfully Yours,

Pastor Phillip Lee

Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries

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Reaching Gay Youth by Darren Thompson

Don't overreact to what is shared with you. How you respond to the youth in the earliest stages of sharing will either establish an ongoing discussion or push him/her away. Always remember that the crisis going on within the individual is great and we ought to show compassion. Many times the individual was molested or raped or grossly neglected early in life which has contributed to their feeling different. There is a lot for the young person to come to grips with now. Your interest in the person should speak volumes to them though. We need to stay connected with them. They will probably expect rejection from you as you become better acquainted with the extent of their brokenness. Word to the wise: Expect to hear something unexpected. Don't even flinch when they tell you of their struggle with pornography or sexual temptations or other faults that may come up. For most youth you may meet, their feelings and strong emotions were kept secret in the dark for years. It is freeing to even speak about them. With that said, however, graphic details are never appropriate or helpful to you or the youth. The youth can be honest and informative without burdening you with specifics. If the conversation gets centered on sexual encounters it is your responsibility to refocus the talk or change the subject.

Caution. Dr. H. Norman Wright has written about some ministering styles to avoid. He suggested that teens don't identify well when adults withhold information about themselves, appear too emotional, too wordy or too inquisitive. Certainly striking the right balance will require your extending yourself grace. Who does anything perfect the first time they try? Also be careful not to emotionally fall apart when someone is sharing something intimate or overwhelm a young person by your questioning. Be gentle and give the teen time to think and reflect on what you asked.

Darren Thompson

Associate Director
His Way Out Ministries

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It Was An Awesome Time At...

First Assembly of God, Bakersfield, CA.
HWOM had the opportunity to provide an update on all that God is doing through His ministry called His Way Out at the First Assembly of God Missions Fair and the Assemblies of God Ministers Council Meeting. All of us at HWOM remain truly grateful for the numerous participating individuals and churches with the Assemblies of God. Together, we have and continue to make a difference in reaching those struggling with same-gender attraction.

Community Christian Fellowship Church, Taft, CA.
Sharing a Sunday morning message titled "A Christian Response to Homosexuality," Pastor Phillip offered an overview of the Church's response to homosexuality and the areas in which we can improve our capacity to speak the truth in love. The congregation of Community Christian Fellowship could not have been more receptive and encouraging. The response from church leaders and members was overwhelming in affirming that the Church is the answer to homosexuality and the numerous related issues.

Christian Ministry Convention - "Loving the City Together"- Bakersfield, CA.
Once again, HWOM was invited to participate in the Annual Christian Ministry Convention held in Bakersfield, CA. The two workshops: Homosexuality and the Reality of Change and There's Something I Need To Tell You! were extremely well attended and received. Convention participants expressed their sincere appreciation for each workshop and their thanks for equipping the saints to be more effective in ministry to those struggling with homosexuality.

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Check-Out What's Happening at Grace Chapel in Lancaster!

HWOM is very pleased to share with you that our ministry partnership with Grace Chapel in Lancaster, CA offers our Time Out Discipleship Support Group Series for men struggling with same-gender attraction. Meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month from 9am to 11am at Grace Chapel, 44648 15th Street West, Lancaster, CA. For further information and details regarding Time Out/Lancaster...please contact Pastor Pat Tanner, Associate Pastor of Grace Chapel, or Louis Steers, a HWOM Advisory Board Member, at (661) 948-0855. The only requirement for attendance is a desire to be free, live free, and remain free from same-gender attraction. A primary goal of the series is to help men discover the loving, powerful presence of God who is there on behalf of their struggle.

Also, at Grace Chapel, join us on Saturday, May 21st, for a one-day conference dedicated to resolving issues of sexual and relational brokenness (heterosexual and homosexual). Pastor Phillip will be presenting a keynote address as well as facilitating two workshops emphasizing that healing and restoration is available through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and the healing power of the Holy Spirit.

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Guyana, South America Missions Fund-Raiser

As many of you are aware, since 1999, HWOM has made numerous trips to Guyana, South America spreading the Good News that freedom from homosexuality is indeed possible when Jesus Christ is Lord of your life. This coming August, Pastor Phillip will be spending the entire month in Guyana for the purpose of training support group leaders, facilitating support groups by example, securing a place of operation for HWOM to become permanently based in Guyana, and training our Guyanese Representative in ministry to the sexually and relationally broken. Obviously, for Pastor Phillip to be in Guyana for an entire month, additional finances will be needed to complete our vision. Therefore, on Saturday, June 18th, from 7am to Noon, HWOM will be having a Missions Yard Sale. In order to make this event and our missions outreach to Guyana a success, we are asking for any and all donations. So, clean out those cupboards, closets and garages! It's not too early to start donating. By the way, if you would like to know more about our ministry and view pictures of Guyana...please visit our Guyanese Ministry page.

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Coming Up In April!

April 2nd - L.I.F.E. (Living in Fellowship...Even in Tough Times). On April 2nd, we will turn our attention to the many contributing factors (roots) of homosexuality with particular emphasis on: early childhood development, family dynamics, sexual abuse, etc. If you have chosen to leave homosexuality, or you are a spouse, family member or friend of someone struggling with homosexuality, or you just want to learn about the complexities of homosexuality...this group is for you! L.I.F.E. meets faithfully on the first Saturday of each month from 9am to 11am.

April 9th - "Time Out" in Bakersfield and Lancaster - A discipleship support group which meets from 9am to 11am is available to men struggling with same-gender attraction. In Bakersfield "Time Out" meets at the HWOM Office and in Lancaster at Grace Chapel Church.

April 12th - Once again, HWOM will be teaching and sharing testimony to both students and faculty at Azusa Pacific University.

April 16th - His Way Out Ministries "Advisory Board" Meeting.

April 20th - HWOM will be sharing teaching and testimony on freedom from homosexuality at the Inter-Varsity Club at Bakersfield College.

April 23rd - "Time Out" in Bakersfield and Lancaster - Discipleship support groups which meet from 9am to 11am are available to men struggling with same-gender attraction. In Bakersfield "Time Out" meets at the HWOM Office and in Lancaster at Grace Chapel.

April 24th - Riverlakes Community Church, Bakersfield, CA - During the morning worship service, HWOM will be sharing teaching and testimony to the high school group. That same evening, HWOM will be speaking to the youth group at First Presbyterian Church in Bakersfield.

April 27th - Laurelglen Bible Church, Bakersfield, CA - During the evening service, HWOM will have opportunity to share testimony and teaching to junior and senior high students as well as parents.

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How You Can Help His Way Out Ministries
  • Ask your pastor to check out this website.

  • Encourage your pastor to consider hosting a seminar or inviting His Way Out Ministries to speak at your church.

  • Ask your church to consider adding His Way Out Ministries to its missions budget.

  • Add His Way Out Ministries to your prayer list.

  • Tell your friends about His Way Out Ministries and encourage them to visit this web site.

  • Give to His Way Out Ministries, either a special one-time gift or on a monthly basis.

  • Show our teaching DVD or Video: "Homosexuality and the Reality of Change" to your Sunday School class.

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Video: "Homosexuality and the Reality of Change"
Homosexuality and the Reality of Change presents a biblical perspective on the homosexual behavior with honesty and compassion. The 50 minute video contains information on: Can Homosexuals Really Change?, Will the Person Become Heterosexual?, How Long Does Change Take?, Exposing the Roots of Homosexuality, HIV and AIDS, Biblical and Scientific Evidence for Change, and much, much more.

This video is an excellent resource for teachers, churches, pastors, support group leaders, or anyone desiring a clear, comprehensive understanding of homosexuality.

The Good News of Jesus Christ and His love, acceptance, and forgiveness, His power to heal and restore has brought hope to many struggling with homosexuality. If you know someone struggling with same-gender attractions Homosexuality and the Reality of Change can help.

Videos are available on VHS or DVD at a cost of $20.00. To order your video...give us a call today.

We recently received, and watched, the video you sent us. It was excellent. We will be sharing it with other people at our church. One part that especially ministered to us was when Pastor Lee said from Philippians 1:6 that God is never going to give up His job of working in our life to conform us to the image of Christ. It helps makes sense of life's trials. Thank you for your ministry...Tom & Catherine

Preview "Homosexuality and the Reality of Change"
2min 38sec, 1.3MB, QT.mov

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IT'S ABOUT LIFE:
Food Ministry to Those Impacted by AIDS
AIDS profoundly impacts one's life whether that person has been infected by it or they are a family member or a friend of someone who has. The social stigmas, fears and especially the "aloneness" associated with AIDS makes it oppressive to live with. "IT'S ABOUT LIFE" is a crucial part of His Way Out Ministries. Because His Way Out Ministries is committed to compassionately communicating God's heart through a caring Christian community, His Way Out Ministries will be a receiving house for non-perishable food items. This will assist those with AIDS to maintain a balanced diet and good nutrition. Two major considerations in food donations for folks with AIDS are speed and ease of preparation. An appetite sometimes doesn't last long and the item has to be readily accessible and speedily prepared for the patient to be able to enjoy it.

We invite churches, companies, ministries, corporations, individuals, and the entire City of Bakersfield to join with us in caring. Offer your support by donating the below listed items.

Canned tuna Canned soups
Canned ravioli Canned pasta products, e.g.Spaghettio's
Hamburger Helper Peanut butter
Hamburger Helper Peanut butter
Jams and jellies Breakfast cereals
Breakfast bars Fruit cocktail
Canned peaches Top Ramen
Cup o' Noodle soups Canned potatoes
Canned corn Macaroni and cheese mixes
Rice 'o Roni type mixes Chili beans
Tomato paste, Tomato sauce Spaghetti sauce
Potted meats Canned stews
Instant potato mixes, e.g., scalloped Instant oatmeal variety packs
Kleenex Paper towels
Toilet paper Popsicles (not frozen)
Instant breakfast drinks Spaghetti

His Way Out Ministries is located at Brimhall Road Assembly of God. Items will be distributed in cooperation with other outreaches in our community. This is a continuous, on-going ministry. For further information, please call 661-589-4262. God Bless You for your giving.

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His Way Out Ministries Services

  • Consultations
  • Family Support Group
  • Individual Prayer Ministry
  • "Time Out" Discipleship Series
  • Ministry Support Network
  • Speakers available to address Christian groups
  • "Moving On" Advanced/Closed Support Groups
  • "It's About Life" Ministry to Those Impacted by AIDS

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Send a Donation to His Way Out

In your own church, and throughout this entire world, people are in need of God's clarity about their relationships and their sexuality. Participating in the work of H.W.O.M. is one way to acknowledge Christ's healing power for the sexually broken.

Through your financial support or volunteer involvement, you can add your voice to those who are speaking the truth of God with integrity.

His Way Out Ministries is a nonprofit, tax exempt Christian ministry associated with Exodus International.

You can donate using PayPal...

Or send a contribution to:
His Way Out Ministries, 10700 Brimhall Road, Bakersfield, CA 93312
(Checks should be made payable to His Way Out Ministries)

Copyright © His Way Out Ministries

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