3 of 3

A few weeks later, my pastor began a series on biblical prosperity—the peace and contentment that comes from allowing God to heal our wounds and move us forward spiritually in him. All through the service, I thought about Ennis and my determination not to end up like him. During lunch that afternoon, I told several of my Christian friends for the first time about my homosexual past and my desire to move forward spiritually, as well as my desire to continue working on a book about worship I had previously been too ashamed to write. Each pledged their love and support. I've also told my pastor, and I look forward to the support and accountability he and the church leaders will provide.

Do I promote Brokeback Mountain as a must see? Absolutely not! But God specializes in working all things together for good for those who love him and are called according to his purposes. That's what he's doing in my life with this controversial movie.

Dennis Belkofer lives in Chicago and is an active member of the Chicago Tabernacle, a plant of the Brooklyn Tabernacle.

Copyright © 2006 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

Christianity Today Movies' review of Brokeback is on our site, along with another article of the many reader responses to the review.

Dennis Belkofer also wrote of his experience to the Leadership Journal blog, Out of Ur, to which many people responded.

Other first-person stories from people who deal with same-sex attraction include:

Cheated by the Affirming Church | Contrary to what some churches teach, it is homosexuality—and not its suppression—that enslaves people like me. (Feb. 17, 2005)

My Path to Lesbianism | It was hatred of women that drove me there, and Christ in community that led me out. (Feb. 17, 2005)

No Easy Victory | A plea from a Christian husband and father who, day by day, resists his homosexual desires. (March 08, 2002)

Building a Bridge | A gay journalist and evangelical pastor correct their mutual misperceptions. (July 13, 2000)

first page |  3 of 3

share this page

April 2006, Vol. 50, No. 4