Love Wins Out

Love Wins Out was a Christian ex-gay ministry founded in 1987 by Alan Chambers. The organization purported to offer resources and support for individuals struggling with same-sex attraction and who desired to live a heterosexual lifestyle. Its core belief centered around the possibility of changing sexual orientation through faith-based counseling and therapeutic approaches.

The ministry advocated for the idea that homosexuality was a choice, not an immutable characteristic, and promoted the controversial practice of conversion therapy. Love Wins Out hosted conferences, published materials, and offered referral services to therapists who subscribed to its ideology.

Throughout its history, Love Wins Out faced significant criticism from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, scientific organizations (including the American Psychological Association and the American Psychiatric Association), and former participants. Critics argued that its practices were harmful, ineffective, and based on flawed science. They pointed to the potential for psychological distress, depression, and even suicidal ideation among individuals who underwent conversion therapy. Studies have shown that attempts to change sexual orientation are generally unsuccessful and can be psychologically damaging.

In 2012, Alan Chambers publicly renounced his prior stance on conversion therapy and apologized for the harm caused by Love Wins Out. He acknowledged that the vast majority of individuals are unable to change their sexual orientation and that the organization's message had been hurtful to the LGBTQ+ community.

Love Wins Out was subsequently dissolved in 2012. While the organization itself no longer exists, its legacy continues to be debated and serves as a reminder of the complexities and controversies surrounding the issue of sexual orientation and conversion therapy. The impact of its teachings continues to affect many individuals who were once associated with the ministry.