Debate Over Converting Gays

Christopher Calhoun (“The Latest Anti-Gay Propaganda Is the Myth of ‘Conversion,’ ” Commentary, July 29) is probably correct in his assertion that the recent ads run by the religious right are intended to target the GOP.

But it is interesting to watch those on the religious right in their own process of “coming out” of the bigotry closet. Increasingly, they stand ever more revealed for what they are, intolerant of nature’s own variation as regards human sexual orientation. The message of nature, presumably a reflection of God’s will, is variety. Just as there are lots of ways to be a tree, a planet, a star or a primate, so too are there lots of ways to be man, a woman or to be sexual.

Fortunately, there are also lots of ways to be an American, a soldier, a Republican or a Christian. To those on the religious right who would have us all be the same, I would simply say: Let my people go!

GUY BALDWIN

Ladera Heights

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Intolerance strikes again. Outspoken members of the religious community, who feel the homosexual lifestyle is immoral and sinful, are once again being attacked as bigots and hate-mongers by the homosexual lobby. As a response, full-page ads presenting a “new national discussion of homosexuality” were placed in The Times (July 27) and other leading papers by 15 organizations seeking to dispel any misconceptions.

Those with deeply held religious beliefs about the immorality of all sexual relationships outside of marriage between a husband and wife denounce the sin--not the sinner. The homosexual lifestyle is not only condemned in the Bible as sin, but as a lifestyle destructive to individuals, families and society. As Christians we offer hope and love to those trapped in a destructive behavior. Whatever past influence led to the behavior, there is hope for deliverance from the homosexual lifestyle. The Bible says, “What is impossible with men is possible with God.”

SARA HARDMAN, Chairman

Christian Coalition of California

Tarzana