The Denver gay man whose accusations of sexual relations with influential evangelist Ted Haggard caused him to be fired by the church he founded says he never meant to harm his family.

In a telephone interview today, Mike Jones said, his words now, "I am sad for him and his family. I know this is a tough day for him also. I wish him well. I wish his family well. My intent was never to destroy his family. My intent was to expose a hypocrite.

He also said: "I hope the healing process can start. I welcome his request for forgiveness for me."

Jones claimed to have had drug-fueled trysts with Haggard.

Haggard was forced out as pastor after a board of overseers found he had committed "sexually immoral conduct."

Jones, who is gay, has said he came forward because he was upset when he found out who Haggard was and that the New Life Church had publicly opposed same-sex marriage.