Ex-Gay Watch first discovered an interesting tidbit on the Exodus International blog. The organization’s President, Alan Chambers, wrote a rosy piece announcing that he had eliminated Randy Thomas’ position as Vice President.
Thomas will now assume his reduced role as part-time blogger — which is being euphemistically called “Director of Digital Media and Development.” Whaterver.
According to Chambers:
This new role will also enable Randy to continue to support our ministry, which I know means a great deal to him, while allowing him ample time to pursue his calling and passion in the arts and pastoral care…. I am excited about this new season for Randy and would encourage you to pray for him as he trusts the Lord and steps out in faith to pursue God’s will.
How gutsy of Thomas to try his hand at “the arts” during a time of high unemployment. Does Thomas’ “artistic” side include photographing homoerotic smut? If so, former Exodus staffer Mike Ensley could help him get back on his feet.
It will be interesting to see if Thomas’ old position is filled in the near future. If not, his downsizing may actually signal that Exodus is going through a season of tough economic times.
few years ago it was Focus on the Family downsizing…now Exodus International and who next the Vatican?
What’s the broader context? Was he the worst person there or something?
He was Alan Chambers right hand man. This is like Obama downsizing Joe Biden’s role from VP to part-time press secretary.
You know, based on what I know of the exgay movement, my first thought was that they demoted him because of some “error” or “sin” that he might have been caught in. I’m not saying that is the case, just that it could be based on what I know. If he were caught “falling” into the “old life” again, but “repented” and promises to keep trying harder, they might not wish to entirely fire him, just move him to a less important position.
[...] Exodus International VP Randy Thomas demoted. [...]
I think I can read the writing on the wall.
I certainly don’t agree with Exodus perspective, but I know Randy (yes, personally from his gay days and we are still friends, although I am not a Christian or anti-gay in ANY way) has been looking at his options to move out of full time employment with Exodus for almost 2 years now. I also own a peice of his artwork which is an original pen and ink drawing that is fabulous. Whether you agree or disagree with the message Exodus embraces, why are you all trying so hard to personally bash him? Last week he became an ordained minister but he isn’t interested in full-time Exodus work any longer, but still wanted to blog for them. It was his choice. He wasn’t demoted. Geeesh…
Amira, it’s great that you’re friends with this person. But he has, in the past, damaged many gay and lesbian people. If you are really not anti-gay why don’t you ask him how he can justify the evil he has done against young GLBT peole. It’s sad that he continues to do it and that you, somehow, think the people on this site–who do know what the ex-gay industry is doing–shouldn’t call him on it. Geesh indeed.
Amira, parden me if I don’t take your word that you’re not Christian or anti gay in ANY way. That you would defend this man’s work speaks for itself.