2016-07-27
Lynchburg Va. (AP) - A gay couple is renting a home across the street from the Rev. Jerry Falwell's church to correct what they see as misinformation spread by the pastor and show that homosexuals can lead Christian lives.

"We just want Lynchburg to see us - an old gay couple - and realize that we're as boring as they are," said the Rev. Mel White, 62, who moved into the cottage Tuesday with Gary Nixon, 52.

White, a minister with Metropolitan Community Church in Los Angeles, ghost-wrote Falwell's autobiography and has known Falwell for more than 15 years - before White announced his homosexuality.

White said he started planning a trip to Lynchburg after Falwell blamed the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks in part on gays. "It broke our hearts to see what he was doing," White said. Falwell later apologized for the comments.

Falwell called the couple's move a publicity stunt but said they are welcome at his Thomas Road Baptist Church in Lynchburg, about 60 miles east of Roanoke. "I can't think of anyone who needs it more," Falwell said.

White's activist group Soulforce plans several local events to support homosexuals and gay rights. He said he hopes his presence will soften Falwell's stance. "We believe he'll be one of the first to say gays are God's children too," White said. "We just need to give him enough time to do it."

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