My child just "came out" to me. What Do I Do Now!!!!

First and foremost . Do not reject your child. Your child still needs your love and support. This does not mean you have to approve of their choices. Extend your love and concern just as before.

Find out if your child is happy about the situation. Many children are not. The media coverage and secular world says, "Too bad.learn to like it." Christ offers hope.

Find out more about same gender attractions. Become educated about the topic. Fully educated. There is more to know than the media is telling. Then tell your child the truth. The whole truth. Refer them to websites such as www.exodusnorthamerica.org where the questions they are asking are taken seriously and not given short, quick, inadequate answers.

Do not shame your child. Feelings are just that. They are emotional responses. Accept the feelings for what they are and rejoice that your child trusts you enough to make that announcement.

Encourage adherence to a Biblical lifestyle. Sex outside of marriage is not God's plan whether it is same gender or heterosexual. Modern studies show very fluid states in sexual responses in the early and mid-teen years. Puberty is hard enough without throwing active sexual expression into the mix.

Encourage, do not force, your child to explore the option of change. As a ministry we will not offer services to anyone unless they are committed to the process for themselves. It is not something someone else can want for you.

Get support for yourself. Read Barbara Johnson's Where Does a Mother Go to Resign? Find a trustworthy friend and share. Join a ministry support group.

Trust God to work all things for the good of those who are called by his name. With God all things are possible. ©2000 Crossroads Sexual Wholeness Ministries, PO Box 531, Milton PA 17847