The Rebirth of Venus
Charlene Cothran, editor of a magazine for African-American gays and lesbians, on how she renounced homosexuality and came to Christ.
Interview by Amy Tracy | posted 3/23/2007 04:47PM
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I believe we're planting a seed at Venus Magazine. We're playing a small part in someone's salvation. They're not all ready to hear the Word, but God's love and kindness will draw them. I want them to know that they're still wonderful people. That God loves them. I love them.
How do you view your sexuality now?
I view myself as celibate. Every sinner is saved, but Satan will test you. I know in my spirit what God has done for me. Anything with two legs could not be more wonderful than God.
What do you believe God has planned for you in the future?
I believe he has a global ministry for me. I'm ready to stand through persecution. They can't shut me up. I won't lose my job. I'm unafraid and unashamed. I've been in the black church and the gay community. The same message is needed all around the world.
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Related Elsewhere:
An opinion piece in the New York Blade, a gay newspaper, says Cothran's decision was financial, a charge she denies in the publisher's note in the Venus Magazine letters to the editor section. Ex-Gay Watch blog commented on the accusations made in the Blade's article.
The Windy City Times
and The Washington Blade, two other gay newspapers, also posted articles on Venus Magazine's new mission.
LifeSite, Anglican Mainstream, and The Florida Baptist Witness reported on Cothran's conversion. Baptist Press and Get Religion questioned the mainstream media's surprising silence.
Christianity Today's special section on sexuality and gender includes:
My Dirty Little Former Secret | God used a movie about gay cowboys to release me from the burden of my past. (April 1, 2006)
Therapeutically Incorrect | Atheist psychiatrist argues that gays can change. (April 2005)
My Path to Lesbianism | It was hatred of women that drove me there, and Christ in community that led me out. February 2005)
Cheated by the Affirming Church | Contrary to what some churches teach, it is homosexuality—and not its suppression—that enslaves people like me. (December 1, 2004)
No Easy Victory | A plea from a Christian husband and father who, day by day, resists his homosexual desires. (March 11, 2002)
Ex-Gay Leader Disciplined for Gay Bar Visit | Exodus removes John Paulk as board chairman, places him on probationary status as member. (October 1, 2000)
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