Exodus International, a controversial Christian group that promoted reparative therapy to change the sexual orientation of gays, has announced it is closing and launching a new ministry instead to help churches host “thoughtful and safe” conversations about sexuality. Exodus president Alan Chambers issued an open apology to gays and lesbians for “years of undue suffering and judgment at the hands” of Exodus. He acknowledged that had turned many people against faith. However, Chambers said he would not apologize for his continued beliefs about what he called the scriptural boundaries surrounding sex.