Orlando, FL – Exodus International – the global Christian outreach whose mission is mobilizing the Church to minister grace and truth to a world impacted by homosexuality - will celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Exodus International Freedom Conference on June 23rd – 26th in Irvine, CA.   The first gathering took place in nearby Anaheim, CA in September 1976.  Amidst controversy, 63 formerly gay-identified men and women gathered together for encouragement and support and ended up birthing a movement. 35 years later controversy remains, as does the original passion, vision and purpose.  One thing that has changed is the breadth of the ever-growing ministry that now encompasses outreaches on 6 continents boasting more than 300 ministries, a vibrant church association and an outreach to youth.

Alan Chambers, President of Exodus International, says, “35 years later, we’re still here and we are moving forward. Thousands of individuals, including myself, continue to boldly proclaim the freedom we have found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.” While Exodus exists in an increasingly hostile environment, they remain committed to providing a biblical perspective for those who feel conflicted by their same-sex attractions and their faith as well as offering understanding, encouragement, counseling and support to friends and family members impacted by homosexuality.  

Ron Dennis, one of the 63 who gathered in 1976 and a current board member will attend the event along with Frank Worthen, who embodied the heart of Exodus at the first gathering. Kent Paris, who attended his first conference in 1977, will share his story at the conference – recounting the early days of the ex-gay movement.    

The Exodus International Freedom Conference is for those who desire to live in congruence with biblical teaching on sexuality as well as for families and leaders concerned about this issue. The four-day conference features 50 workshops on a variety of issues related to homosexuality, general sessions and special events for youth and married couples.   

To receive media credentials to cover this event or to arrange for an interview, please call the Exodus Press Office at (407) 599-6872 or (321) 279-8965.  For a schedule of events or more information of this conference, please go to: www.exodusfreedom.org