Matt and Frances Nevels talk after services at Red Bank Baptist Church. It was their first time visiting the church in almost 20 years.Below are letters emailed to the Times Free Press in response to reporter Joan Garrett’s June 24 story “Tempest in My Soul.” The story dealt with a Southern Baptist minister’s struggle with his faith when he found out his son was gay and dying of AIDS.
Usually, I just browse though the headlines during my second cup of coffee and go on about my day. Your story was an exception. I read it first to last word. I’m neither Baptist nor gay, but my takeaway from reading your article (outside of the circumstances of the family you followed) is we all have the right to formulate our own beliefs, but in the process, should respect the beliefs of others … While everyday “run of the mill news” still has a place, your type of story and the manner in which you present it stimulates thought and meaning, making it an exception to the “average” news story. Thank you for your journalism.
— Kingsport, Tenn., reader
I still have tears in my eyes after reading your incredible article. Truly written from the heart. It is time for change and for the hypocrisy to stop. God bless the Nevels family. Now is when I believe their true calling has come.
— Chattanooga reader