‘Conversion therapy’ victim underwent church “exorcism” to rid “the demons of homosexuality”
A gay man says he was the victim of a church persuading him to take part in an “exorcism” to rid “the demons of homosexuality”.
Matthew Drapper explained that a day of prayer at the St Thomas Philadelphia church in Sheffield was used as a means to ‘convert’ him. ‘Conversion therapy’ is typically defined as any attempt at changing a person’s sexuality or gender identity, often involving techniques such as electroshock therapy or prayer.
It has been widely condemned by health experts all over the world, with some comparing it to torture. Among these are the National Health Service, World Health Organisation, World Psychiatric Association and the United Nations.
The 33-year-old said he has been suffering ongoing trauma since experiencing the “exorcism” in 2014. “I had thought about whether it is even worth living if I’m going to be gay.
