Mortified Haggard claims his faith is stronger

Colorado, January 10: It was in 2006 when Ted Haggard, the influential U.S. evangelist, was embroiled in gay sex scandal. Two years down the line, he has again drawn the attention of all by stating that his sexual character is multifaceted and intricate. He can thus not be categorized into 'stereotypical boxes.'

He declared that his rapport with his wife was sturdy but he desired that the public had been more sympathetic and tolerant with him.

Haggard said in a phone interview. "I am guilty. I am responsible. I got off track, and I am deeply sorry and I repent …I'm moving along in a positive direction."

Talking of his exile, he said, "It has strengthened my faith. I do wish others had been more forgiving toward me. But I think those who hate me and judge me had a reason. I deserved it."

Haggard was expelled from the 14,000-member New Life Church in Colorado Springs after his admittance to "sexual immorality." At that time he had confessed that he paid a male prostitute for sex, admitted that he bought methamphetamines but had denied using the drug. It was a startling admission by the president of the National Association of Evangelicals. The church elders asked him to leave Colorado.

Haggard said that he believes it's "God's perfect plan" for matrimony between a man and woman. He said, "I think sexuality is confusing and complex. I am totally completely satisfied with the relationship with my wife now, but I went through a wandering in the wilderness time, and I just thank God I'm on the other side of that."

On January 29, a HBO documentary about Haggard will air on the cable TV network. Haggard’s wife and two of his children came on a panel for U.S. television critics to endorse his documentary, "The Trials of Ted Haggard." Talking of the documentary, Haggard said, "I don't think it is a flattering piece. I think it is even-handed. It is embarrassing for me for people to see it, but it does answer their questions."

Haggard has told the documentary maker Alexandra Pelosi, the daughter of U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi that he had the urge for same-sex love every now and then. He has admitted that he is a sinner and is a weak man. He opined, "I now know more about hatred and judgment than ever before, and I know it doesn't help."