Exodus International, the world's largest Christian ministry that reaches out to homosexuals, is moving away from controversial treatment meant to end same-sex attraction.

Critics say the reparative "conversion" therapy is ineffective at stopping homosexual desires and that it's harmful to try and turn a gay person into a heterosexual.

Exodus International leaders say the group will now focus on discipleship, along with counseling.

"We've never promoted a cure for homosexuality. What we've done in the last year is distance ourselves from reparative therapy and the over-focus on change regarding sexual orientation," Exodus International President Alan Chambers said in a statement to CBN News.

"Life in Christ is so much bigger," he added. "Anyone with sin in their lives can live differently. That's why we're moving forward toward a discipleship model."

Chambers said his group's upcoming "Freedom Conference" will highlight new efforts that move away from conversion therapy.