01/27/2025
Producer Replies: Is It the Restored Hope Network or the Deferred Hope Network?
YSM Media - January 26, 2025
As someone who has walked the road of transformation and continues to advocate for transparency within the ex-gay community, I find myself questioning whether the Restored Hope Network (RHN) truly lives up to its name—or if it more accurately represents deferred hope for the individuals it claims to serve. RHN, along with its closely tied counterpart Living Waters Ministries, has long presented itself as a beacon for those seeking healing through faith. But how much of that hope is grounded in action, accountability, and truth? This article seeks to uncover whether RHN is restoring hope or simply deflecting responsibility.
The Roots of Controversy
RHN was formed in 2012 by former Exodus International affiliates, including Andrew Comiskey of Desert Stream Ministries, following Exodus’s public renouncement of conversion therapy. While Exodus’s president Alan Chambers acknowledged the harm caused by such practices, RHN doubled down on "transformational ministry," promoting the idea that individuals experiencing same-s*x attraction or gender dysphoria can align their lives with Christian doctrine.
Living Waters and RHN Connection
Living Waters, founded by Andrew Comiskey, operates under Desert Stream Ministries and is closely tied to RHN through shared leadership and theological approaches. Living Waters has faced significant accusations of perpetuating harmful practices aimed at changing s*xual orientation or gender identity. Globally, its credibility took a hit when Living Waters Australia closed in 2014 amid intense public backlash. The closure highlighted growing opposition to conversion therapy and exposed deeper systemic failures within these ministries.
The ongoing collaboration between RHN and Living Waters reflects a shared mission but also a shared reluctance to address valid critiques. Their connections raise important questions: Are these ministries evolving in response to legitimate concerns, or are they deferring responsibility while continuing to operate under outdated frameworks?
Scandals and Ethical Concerns
The controversies surrounding RHN and Living Waters extend beyond their practices. Ron Brookman, a former leader of Living Waters Australia, was charged with child s*x offences, further tarnishing the reputation of these ministries. Although RHN was not directly implicated, the lack of oversight and accountability across these networks remains a glaring issue.
Adding to this, Anne Edward (formerly Anne Paulk), who is believed to oversee RHN’s communications, recently commented on a challenging video, stating, "This is a tough video to listen to." While her comment suggests empathy, Edward’s decision to block Exgay News, a leading platform for ex-gay reporting, sends a different message entirely. Blocking a platform dedicated to amplifying ex-gay voices contradicts RHN’s stated mission of fostering dialogue and support.
As I’ve personally stated, "While having an estimated 232 ministers in your network
; how many of them helped me recover or reached out to me during the last 5 years when I came out to talk about the death of thousands of orphans; corruption and conversion therapy stories at
, and filing police reports against
and making national news?" This question demands accountability from a network that claims to champion healing and restoration.
It stands to reason; if they are going to block a media producer like me because I ask questions, then whom else are they going to block? It should also be noted that Ms. Anne uses her own Facebook account and monitors this. Regardless of the former treatment towards ex-gay groups, I stand as an ex-gay content creator, help lead one of the top social media groups outside of my work here at YSM Media, and if she can so easily click block and not answer but deflect to a PR person rather than give an account, it is my personal opinion that people should not trust the integrity of a person who avoids accountability.
Voice of the Voiceless: Remaining Voiceless
For an organization that claims to give a platform to individuals who have left the LGBTQ+ lifestyle, Voice of the Voiceless has been conspicuously silent on some of the most critical issues affecting the ex-gay community. Despite their stated mission to advocate for ex-gay individuals and amplify their stories, their lack of response to controversies such as alleged conversion practices at IHOPKC, my own national advocacy efforts, or even broader systemic concerns, speaks volumes.
Additionally, VOV has not shared the extensive media, research, and data we’ve provided—nearly 400 articles—or taken clear steps to hold ex-gay organizations accountable. Engaging in anonymous, off-the-record conversations while offering no official action signals a lack of transparency and commitment to addressing serious issues. Furthermore, the communication we shared suggests an intent to be overly favorable and biased toward certain organizations while adopting a laissez-faire approach to public relations. This lack of objectivity undermines the credibility and impact of the platform.
True leadership requires action, transparency, and accountability. I urge you to refocus VOV’s efforts on its core mission and ensure that freedom of speech and advocacy for the ex-gay community remain priorities.
"Voice of the Voiceless President Daren Mehl speaks at the Christian Politics and Religion event about the global attack on the Christian faith via the LGBTQ agenda and how we can respond in love, truth, and speak of the power of Jesus Christ to save and transform." - From the Voice of the Voiceless website.
There is no direct evidence that "Voice of the Voiceless" has publicly criticized or spoken against the Restored Hope Network. Both organizations share the common goal of supporting individuals experiencing unwanted same-s*x attraction, with Voice of the Voiceless advocating for the rights of former homos*xuals and those seeking change, and Restored Hope Network focusing on life transformation from a traditional Biblical perspective.
Final Thoughts
I've been outspoken about my views, especially when it comes to confronting the Restored Hope Network. I've said before that "The LGBTQ are not to blame for all problems in society," directly challenging narratives perpetuated by figures like Jon Root, who once stated, "The LGBTQ are to blame for all society’s problems." Such sweeping statements do nothing to foster meaningful dialogue or understanding. Similarly, Alisa Childers' response to that comment, "Yeah, that's good," reflects a lack of discernment in addressing complex societal issues.
Even more concerning are statements like Darren Mehl’s claim that "Christ was a conversion therapist," or comparisons made by some leaders likening LGBTQ individuals to N***s. These remarks not only distort the message of Christ but also alienate the very individuals ministries like RHN claim to want to help. These kinds of narratives fail to reflect the love, grace, and truth central to the Christian faith.
This is precisely why I've openly challenged the Restored Hope Network, stating, "The moment that the Restored Hope Network blocked my ExgayNews press; they crossed a line that will be openly challenged. This is only the start, and I will not be silent."
My critique of their actions is clear: "Restored Hope Network Exposed: What happens when a ministry starts playing politics? Silenced voices, abused platforms, and broken trust. The ex-gay movement deserves better than gatekeeping and control. It’s time to speak up and reclaim transparency." I'm determined to challenge and reform the practices and policies of organizations like the Restored Hope Network.
Moving Forward
The ex-gay movement is at a crossroads. The scandals, ethical concerns, and public backlash surrounding RHN, Living Waters, and Voice of the Voiceless highlight the urgent need for reform. It’s time to stop deflecting responsibility and start listening to the voices of those who have been harmed. Only then can we build a movement that reflects the transformative power of truth, accountability, and faith.
Sh'non, Exc Producer of the YSM Media, The World's Largest Exgay Social Media
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