Exodus International, a Christian group that believes gays can become straight through prayer and counseling, announced a merger Wednesday with two like-minded denominational groups.

OnebyOne, an outreach to Presbyterian Church (USA) congregations, and Transforming Congregations, which links with United Methodist congregations, will form a new division under the leadership of the Orlando, Fla.-based Exodus.

“Together, we hope to advance a new era in the global Christian church that is defined by God’s truth as well as his heart for hurting individuals experiencing confusion and conflict about their sexuality,” said Alan Chambers, president of Exodus, during his organization’s annual conference at Wheaton College in Illinois.