Welcome to His Way Out Ministries

June 2006 Highlights

The Journey Back By Paul

January 2005. Another failed relationship and I am miserable. I thought that being 'myself' and living as a gay man was supposed to mean the end of my being miserable. Instead, in totally giving myself over to this new life, I have found even more misery. Depression, mind numbing medications, suicidal thoughts, harming myself have all become a part of me. I have no hope. I am resigned to thinking of myself as a cursed "freak of nature." But I hear God saying, "I am opening up a window for you to exit this way of living." I know what He means. If this particular relationship had continued, I would have become imbedded in the homosexual community and I would probably never leave it. However, God has another plan. It requires me to choose quickly - stay where I am or go through the 'window.' With no second thoughts and no looking back, I choose the window - I drive through it and the journey back to God and healing begins.

The next step is already clear. Bury my pride, admit my mistakes (sins) and get help. I call Pastor Lee. I had met with him years ago right after I had decided to "be me." I didn't like him as he had been quite direct in telling me what the consequences would be for the life I had chosen. And I didn't like His Way Out Ministries either as I thought it was just another source of condemnation. But without an "I told you so!" he welcomes me, and he and HWOM become a foundation for encouragement and support. At Pastor Lee's urging, I begin attending the Time Out discipleship meetings at HWOM and I find a church home.

During 2005. God has been quite merciful in that I have had no "pull" from the gay community to return to it nor have I "acted out." However, God was far from finished with me because I had yet to deal with many of the underlying issues that were at work in my going so far astray.

December 2005. Another stay at a mental hospital and I am miserable. I have (again) physically harmed myself. God, what is going on here? I have been faithful in getting the help and support I need. I have drawn closer to you. I have begun to give back to others in service to you. I'm not angry with you or have less faith - I just don't understand!

March 2006. I am beginning to understand. While the life changes I have made are good and right, I am still holding back from God. I have not achieved that 'critical mass' of trust and faith in Him that will allow Him to break the hurts, habits and hang-ups in my life. I am still doing 'it' my way. For instance, I rely on a lot of medications for my mental well being, myself worth comes from what other people think of me, I am afraid of men and avoid them, I am constantly trying to dull any pain I feel. But, I won't settle for this any longer.

Okay, God, now what do you want me to do? He gives me two very simple commands to follow to begin to build a relationship with Him. "Read my Word each day and come to me in prayer each day." These commands seem rather elementary (it can't be that simple!), and I've heard sermons and testimonies saying the same thing so many times before. Yet this time it 'hits' me as if it were a new revelation. I never really had the desire to read the Word and pray daily before - it seemed like a chore and unnecessary. I realize that I am so weak that I have to depend on God even for that desire.

It has also become apparent that all of the medications I take (anti-depressants, mood stabilizers, tranquilizers, etc.) are getting in the way of relying on Him. My doctor takes me off of ALL of them.

April 2006. It has been a month since I began the disciplines of daily prayer and Bible reading and have stopped taking any medications. I feel like I have walked out of a fog. I feel God's presence. He is stretching me - it hurts sometimes but I don't want Him to stop. I feel like a new man...

So, what started out as a journey out of homosexuality has become a journey in to a close relationship with our God. It is good.

Paul

From All of Us at His Way Out Ministries...

To each of you who continually bless us by your encouragement, ministry participation, monthly financial support, offerings, and prayers...we remain truly grateful. His Way Out Ministries is proclaiming to, educating, and impacting the world with the biblical truth that freedom from homosexuality is possible when Jesus Christ is Lord of your life.

Prayerfully Yours,

Pastor Phillip Lee

Executive Director
His Way Out Ministries

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Guyana, South America Bound!

On June 29th, Ginny Mitchell, Donna Castello, Louis Steers (HWOM Advisory Board Members), and Pastor Phillip Lee will be departing for Guyana, South America. Ultimately, returning to the States on July 10th, this particular journey to Guyana will be largely dedicated to equipping and educating the saints on how to minister to those struggling with homosexuality.

A two-day conference titled Homosexuality and the Reality of Change will be offered and available to all that would like to attend in Georgetown, the capital of Guyana. By invitation of Pastor Marlon Hestick, President of the Wesleyan Bible University, the His Way Out Ministries team will be sharing testimony and teaching to students and faculty during the week of July 3rd to July 7th.

This is truly an amazing opportunity in that fifteen denominations refer students and those currently serving in various areas of ministry to the Wesleyan Bible University for training and education. Also, time will be spent at the Alpha Children's Homes in Berbice, Guyana. Just last January, His Way Out Ministries had the wonderful privilege of opening and dedicating the first children's home in Guyana for children impacted by HIV/AIDS.

His Way Out Ministries is extremely grateful and fortunate to partner in ministry with Operation Restoration (a local Guyanese ministry) in reaching those bound by homosexuality in Guyana. Together, Operation Restoration and His Way Out Ministries offer the only Christian ministry in the entire nation of Guyana ministering to men and women struggling with same-gender attraction.

If you would like to contribute a designated offering to our trip and ongoing ministry in Guyana...please make your check payable to HWOM and write "Guyana" in the memo section of your check. You can also contribute via PayPal using the link here.

A full report of our journey will be offered in an upcoming newsletter. Your prayers for our trip would be greatly appreciated.

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Summit Bible College Bakersfield Christian Leadership Conference

June 17, 2006 Through the Eyes of Jesus

On Saturday, June 17th at the Holiday Inn Select in Bakersfield, CA, Summit Bible College will be offering a one-day conference designed to educate and equip men and women for ministry. Once again, His Way Out Ministries has been invited to participate and present A Christian Response to Homosexuality. For more information about the conference, speakers, topics and to register, please visit Summit Bible College.com Hope to see you there!

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A United Front? By Pastor Phillip Lee

Is it true the gay community and pro-gay apologists have an agenda? Yes, indeed. However, contrary to what those in the gay community and those that promote homosexuality as a gift from God and an ok, alternate lifestyle would have you and I embrace, the pro-gay camp is not as unified as they would have us believe.

While there are many view points and opinions on to what extent Christians should engage in the political arena, I remain convinced that, as a Christian, I am obligated to affect the world around me. Admittedly, whatever you and I do as a Christian, our motivation must be one of love rather than to destroy. For those ministering in the area of ex-gay ministry, there is delicate balance, if not a problem of trying to reach homosexuals while not sending a message of fighting the very same you are attempting to reach. However, a solid, good rule of thumb is that all people, regardless of their sin, brokenness, habit, addiction, disobedience, etc. should have access to hearing the Gospel Message of redemption.

I am amazed, if not down right intrigued, that almost on a weekly basis, I talk with men and women deeply entrenched and habitually practicing homosexuality and lesbianism, that shares with me just how much the gay community has been and remains divided regarding the whole subject matter of homosexuality. While some incorrectly believe that they were born homosexual, many believe that it is a choice, and yet others remain completely undecided. While some men and women in the "so called" gay community" purpose to attend every gay pride parade available to them, others find the events despicable and offer anything but a message of "proud that I am gay." Many, while still in a battle of embracing the Bible in its entirety (especially the parts about living within the holy boundary lines of sexual expression), continue to hope for at least one Scripture that will somehow validate homosexual practice, others freely admit the Scriptures are our final authority and encourage "Christian, hold your ground and pray for me!" The illusion of a unified gay community is just that. An illusion and not based in fact or truth.

Today, homosexuality is one of the most crucial issues we all must consider. On a personal level, most of us, if not everyone of us have at least one friend, colleague, or family member that is either practicing homosexuality or combating same-gender attraction. Certainly, the impact of homosexuality on politics is obvious. Pro-gay activists, working closely with mental health professionals such as the APA (American Psychiatric Association), have tragically but successfully shaped and encouraged a new attitude and thinking on homosexuality that is a potent political force to be reckoned with. However, even within certain organizations such as the APA there is great disagreement as to the origins and causes of homosexuality and whether or not a person should be encouraged to address their issue with same-gender attraction.

Admittedly, questions of right and wrong can always be found where politics intersect with personal beliefs. Thankfully, for most Americans, right and wrong still works its way out in the context of their relationship to and with God. That is exactly why the entire issue of homosexuality and related issues has been and shall remain an issue of morals and not civil rights. Therefore, how the Church responds to the issues of homosexuality will continue to powerfully affect the future of American society and the world.

The denial in the American Church over homosexuality is staggering. How can we, His Church, possibly combat the increasing acceptance of homosexuality without an honest facing up to the realities of the situation? Over and over again, I continue to hear "We don't have that problem in my church." Frankly, and there simply is no delicate way to say this. What about "The Church?"

It has been over twenty years now since I left homosexuality. I have been extraordinarily fortunate to have met and developed friendships with both men and women who have emerged from the snare of homosexuality. When I reflect on the personal difficulties they have had to combat and squarely face, the undeniable courage they have displayed not only in facing many difficulties but also in confronting a culture that seems to be purposed to deny the validity of their experiences, I remain amazed. It is in the lives of both men and women, former homosexuals, who stand for me and numerous others, as a model of everything good, healthy, and possible that takes God seriously. Homosexuality goes far beyond the surface matter of gay rights. For the Church, the more important aspect of the battle regarding homosexuality and gay rights is not the political one; it is the one for the human soul.

A unified front? Yes! The numerous men and women that have made the journey out of homosexuality and stand to proclaim they did so through Jesus Christ. Those that define themselves as ex-gay, represent a unified front. In spite of personal ridicule and criticism, we, the ex-gay, will continue to testify, teach and proclaim the uncompromised Word of God. To not do so, would be to deny Christ Himself.

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Coming Up This Month!

June 3rd - L.I.F.E. (Living in Fellowship...Even in Tough Times). 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.

June 10th - "Time Out" A discipleship support group which meets from 9am to 11am is available to men struggling with same-gender attraction.

June 17th - HWOM Advisory Board Meeting

June 24th - "Time Out" A discipleship support group which meets from 9am to 11am is available to men struggling with same-gender attraction.

June 24th - Guyana, South America "Missionary Team" Meeting.

June 29th - HWOM Guyana, South America Missionary Team departs for Guyana.

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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)

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