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World National |
Gay Couple Moves by Falwell ChurchLYNCHBURG, Va. (AP) – A gay couple is renting a home across the street from the Rev. Jerry Falwell’s church to correct what they see as misinformation spread by the pastor and show that homosexuals can lead Christian lives.
« We just want Lynchburg to see us — an old gay couple — and realize that we’re as boring as they are, » said the Rev. Mel White, 62, who moved into the cottage Tuesday with Gary Nixon, 52. White, a minister with Metropolitan Community Church in Los Angeles, ghost-wrote Falwell’s autobiography and has known Falwell for more than 15 years — before White announced his homosexuality. White said he started planning a trip to Lynchburg after Falwell blamed the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks in part on gays. « It broke our hearts to see what he was doing, » White said. Falwell later apologized for the comments. Falwell called the couple’s move a publicity stunt but said they are welcome at his Thomas Road Baptist Church in Lynchburg, about 60 miles east of Roanoke. « I can’t think of anyone who needs it more, » Falwell said. White’s activist group Soulforce plans several local events to support homosexuals and gay rights. He said he hopes his presence will soften Falwell’s stance. « We believe he’ll be one of the first to say gays are God’s children too, » White said. « We just need to give him enough time to do it. » |