http://headlines.agapepress.org/archive/6/afa/172005h.asp
(Commentary & News Briefs June 17, 2005 Compiled by Jody Brown)

...A Memphis-based ministry designed to provide treatment and recovery for sexual problems is being protested by homosexual activists. The group's executive director says he cannot understand why a message of love and hope is being met with such hate. Love In Action International is a Christ-centered recovery treatment center that helps individuals make informed decisions about sexuality choices. The program helps people who are willing to leave the homosexual lifestyle. The ministry's headquarters in Memphis have been picketed by a group of lesbians who do not like that message. LIA executive director John Smid says his group simply offers solutions -- and that includes helping parents with confused children. It is that stance which has sparked the lesbians' protests. "With our adult program, that is absolutely our philosophy: if a person wants to pursue counseling and therapeutic groups and support to live a sober and obedient life in Christ outside of inappropriate sexual behaviors, we offer that option to them," Smid explains. "For the youth, we believe very strongly that the parents hold the convictions about how they will raise their children." Smid says he is simply asking everyone to show a little tolerance and open-mindedness about his ministry -- something he notes homosexuals claim they care most about. [Rusty Pugh]