A man claiming to be an ‘ex-gay’ was the special invited guest at Calvary Memorial Church in Oak Park Sunday. The appearance of Stephen Bennett of Stephen Bennett ministries sparked a series of protests.
In the morning, about 100 Oak Park Area Gay and Lesbian Association members attended services at the church in silent protest of the anti-gay sermon being delivered by Rev. Ray Pritchard. One man was escorted out after yelling against the pastor.
When it came time for the evening event featuring Bennett, with an estimated 1,500 inside the church, there were angry protesters outside choosing not to remain silent, including members of the Chicago Anti-Bashing Network, Equal Marriage NOW!, and the New Spirit Metropolitan Community Church.
Bennett teaches that gays and lesbians can overcome their sexuality.