Exodus Expands

From the Exodus Press Office:

Exodus International Sees Rapid Ministry Growth Amid Culture Clash Over Homosexuality
Leader Says Growth is Part of a Countercultural Revolution

Orlando, FL- As the issue of homosexuality continues to be hotly debated in public settings across the country - Exodus International, the largest worldwide support organization to those affected by unwanted same-sex attraction, is seeing rapid growth within its organization.

In the last five years, Exodus International has seen a 59% increase in its member agencies growing from 117 in 2003 to over 200 in 2008. This compared to more spotty growth in years past. Requests for resources and speaking engagements are also up.

As Exodus adapts to the demand, there has also been a dramatic shift in the types of individuals interested in the Exodus message. Attendance statistics from the ministry’s 2007 annual conference show that more than half were first-time conference attendees - a stark comparison to years past where the majority were longtime conference attendees. That number was even higher at Exodus’ Regional Freedom Conference in Nashville, Tennessee this year as over 60% had never attended an Exodus event before. Due to the demand, Exodus is making plans to host additional conferences in the coming months.

Exodus has also seen tremendous growth in newer initiatives as well. In 2006, the ministry created the Exodus Church Network, an interdenominational coalition of churches that provides local support to those seeking freedom from homosexuality. In the two years since its formation, it has grown to more than 70 churches including Chicago megachurch Willow Creek Church. Exodus also launched Exodus Books last year - now a leading provider of Christian resources addressing the issue of homosexuality that has seen exceptional success in its first year of operation.

Another new development for the organization is the addition of nationally recognized board members who bring effective expertise and leadership. New board members include Bob Stith, Director of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Ministry to Homosexuals Task Force, Christian recording artist Dennis Jernigan and Pastor & Mrs. Clark Whitten, founders of Grace Church and prominent members of the Orlando community.

Alan Chambers, President of Exodus International, says, “We believe that the escalating growth we are seeing as well as the progress within our movement is part of a countercultural revolution. People are hungry for a hopeful message about homosexuality that encompasses God’s truth as well as His compassionate heart. We are thrilled to be a small part of what God is doing to reach a new generation with His liberating truth.”
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