Homosexuality and Religion: People Behind the Debate

By Times staff writer

© St. Petersburg Times,
published July 22, 2001

A battle for blessing Many churches open their doors to gays and lesbians, but a St. Petersburg man has learned the limits of that acceptance. Gay Pentecostals find a place to worship Adapting the traditions of one of Christianity's most conservative sects, a Tampa church offers services where charismatic beliefs and homosexuality can co-exist. 'Jesus loves gays' ...But they need to change That's the message two Tampa women have been bringing to patrons of gay nightclubs for 16 years -- though not everyone wants to hear it. Praying for change New Hearts, a Christian group, offers prayer and support to gays and lesbians who want to become heterosexual. But studies show such change is unlikely.

In recent years, many major Christian denominations -- Presbyterians and Baptists, Methodists and Episcopalians -- have debated the role of gays and lesbians in church.

But what happens when the theoretical discussions are over and people go back to their real lives? In stories today and Tuesday, we look at the varying and sometimes uncomfortable ways in which homosexuals and religious groups interact in the Tampa Bay area.

TODAY:

David Graves was a leader in his Baptist church -- until he let it be known that he was in a gay relationship.

Potter's House Fellowship Church in Tampa has its roots in the conservative Pentecostal tradition yet welcomes gays and lesbians..

TUESDAY:

Two Christian women in Tampa stand outside gay bars trying to lure people away from the "gay lifestyle." For one, it's a deeply personal mission.

A Christian group promises to "heal" homosexuals and help them return to straight life through the Lord.

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