8 January 2006

We are so thankful for all the phone calls and emails we have received in support of our stand against spiritual abuse and our desire for proactive action to educate, inform and seek healing for the abusers and those they abuse. We wish we were able to print every email and the text of the many phonecalls. Somebody just reminded us " they say that one letter represents 100 who could write a similar perspective - scary, isn't it?" We are so thankful for the one in a hundred who do take the effort to write often under painful circumstances. We hope eventually to hear from pastors/ministers who have gone through a process of being an admitted abuser to being healed of their pain and deep insecurity.

Please let us know if you are willing to have your names/details shown with incoming messages - at least please give us a location. We are hoping to allow all sides to express their views on church abuse issues. Including the plight of church leaders who suffer abuse at the hands of controlling elders and members. Bleatinglambs.org takes no responsibility for the views expressed unless expressly noted.

Dear Bleating Lambs.

Read about your plight in the Western Standard. Good to see this issue is getting some media exposure because only light brings healing into darkness.

I just wanted to write and give you encouragement that it does get better. Over time, i.e. years, it does get better. However all us victims of spiritual abuse are scarred for life. For me, it changed permanently who I am as a Christian. I'm happy to say I think it made me a stronger believer. However, some things are still difficult for me, ten years after I got out of the abuse; things which are normal to most believers such as a daily quiet time with God, prayer, worship etc. I still believe and live the gospel, but it's changed me and my personal walk is different now. I just thank God that before the abuse I had a strong background in apologetics, so I knew the gospel was true despite how perverted my abusers were making it feel. I knew that God did not approve of their actions and that they were acting without His spirit or authority.

I won't belabour you with details of my abuse. Suffice to say it started in a major Christian missions organization, Youth With A Mission. All that happened there lined up directly with what has been written in books like Churches That Abuse and The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse. I confronted it in a letter on behalf of myself and many others there who attested to the problem. Long story short, it was covered up at almost every level of the organization, and the ones who wanted to affect change were silenced. Once I knew they were not going to do anything internally about it, I put up a web site for about four years to expose the problem and try to affect change from the outside. Unfortunately, that was not effective either. My home church, New Life Church in Kelowna BC, supported the missions organization, mainly because one of the pastors has worked with them in the past. Despite the documented evidence on my web site, footnotes and all to everything, the church sided with them and ordered me to take down my web site. I refused of course, recognizing more abuse about to happen. At that point they blocked me from every ministry opportunity there, even though I had been recommended twice in the past to lead home groups. I think it hurt the most coming from my church. It's where I had really matured in the Lord throughout my mid 20's to mid 30's. I had invested twelve years of my life with them, my cousin was the lead pastor, and now there were ignoring my factual evidence and jerking me around. I'm actually thankful now in reflection that I'm not with them anymore because they continue venturing into questionable theology and seem to have no foundation other than emotion. They have also had several splits since my time with them. (Revenge is His!)

I took my web site down in late 1999 for a number of reasons, one of which being that I realized that it was not affecting change in Youth With A Mission. They simply got their backs up, labelled me a "spiritual terrorist" and ignored me from that point. Another reason was that I wasn't getting much support from the public. People don't like to believe this happens, and if they do, they don't fully understand it unless they've personally been affected. People were always questioning my motivation for such a web site, always asking what I did to bring on the problem etc. I did get some support of course, but I was trying to build a lengthy list of testimonies from others who had been hurt in Youth With A Mission, and in four years of having the site up, only one person volunteered to have his story posted as well. I was trying to show through others' testimony how widespread the problem was. In short, the support I got was fairly weak; no one wanted to speak up. No one supported the site financially either. The last reason is probably why I have never relaunched my site (I still have all the files): I realized that I was not interested in getting into counselling ministry dealing with spiritual abuse victims. It's an important need in the Body right now, but it wasn't for me. Like I've said, my interest was, and always will be, in apologetics - showing evidence for our Christian faith. In typical fashion BTW, your former church has posted no reply to the WS article on its web site. All abusers ignore problems and pretend they don't exist, and then label the accusers as the problem. So typical, yet so obvious. And juvenile.

Anyhow, God bless you in this. It is a worthy cause and you've got my 100% support. I hope your conference goes well. Don't let the abusers get you down. Remember, they are in the wrong, and you are in the right. God is proud of what you've done! Yes, you may add this email to your web site if you want. Cheers!

Calvin Arnt.
St. Catharines, ON
http://www.lincolnmilitia.ca/

(Editors note: others have raised concerns about YWAM : http://www.rickross.com/groups/youth.html)

-

From Van Robison <vrobison@hyperaction.net> 
Sent Saturday, December 31, 2005 7:32 am
To bleatinglambs@shaw.ca 
Subject Website

Dear Bleating Lambs,

I learned about your website from the Battered Sheep website, and would like to make some comments.  Like many others my wife and I were also in a spiritually abusive church organization many years ago, ending in 1974.  While there is much to be said about the Worldwide Church of
God/Ambassador College/Herbert W. Armstrong organization, there is a great deal about the former empire of Herbert W. Armstrong (now
deceased) on the internet.

Many years later my wife and I attended various churches in the charismatic church world, and eventually took a permanent exit from all
institutional churches.  In recent years there has been a vast worldwide move called the "House Church Movement", and there is no doubt that
multitudes of "unchurched" Christians are having fellowship in pastorless private homes in many countries around the world.  The very
famous George Barna, in his recent book "Revolution" (Copyright 2005) states that millions of Christians have stopped going to church on
Sunday mornings.  He even predicts that in the next twenty years, only 30% of American Christians will be attending an institutional church,
while 70% will be expressing their faith in Jesus Christ outside of the walls of the institutional churches. Many books have come on the market
about the "House Church Reformation" in recent years, including "Megashift" (Copyright 2005), by James Rutz.

It is my personal view that the heart and core of the problem with spiritual abuse has to do with the false and unbiblical concept of the
"clergy/laity" system of churchianity.  In the fantastic and highly educational research work entitled "The Great Ecclesiastical
Conspiracy", George Davis, Michael Clark, and Kirk Pearson prove that many scriptures in the King James Bible are very mistranslated, because
they lead Christians to believe that they are to "obey those who have the authority over you".  These types of scriptures are looked at very
closely, along with many others dealing with "office" and various "titles".   The whole world is so accustomed to the idea of "authority",
that it is difficult for people to be set free from this mentality. When the disciples of Jesus Christ were arguing among themselves who
would be the "greatest", the answer Jesus gave about having "authority over" is "IT SHALL NOT BE SO AMONG YOU".  Therefore any scriptures in the New Testament that appear to contradict Jesus Christ, have to be misconstrued, mistranslated, or misinterpreted.  This internet book can be read and studied at: http://insearchofacity.org/files/ecc.html. Christians will forever be in bondage as long they believe that there is
a special "priestly" class of "professional pastors" who are sanctioned by God to have "authority" over their spiritual lives.  Unfortunately
this is a very widespread belief.

One other major flaw in the world of churchianity, and one that forever fuels the man-made institutional church system is the very false teaching about "tithing".  In his wonderful book "Tithing: Low-Realm, Obsolete & Defunct" (Copyright 2004), Matthew E. Narramore proves from
New Testament scriptures that tithing, in the context of the New Covenant in Jesus Christ, is no more valid than physical circumcision or
animal sacrifices.  It is beyond dispute that the apostle (meaning "envoy" or "one sent" and not an "office of authority" over others) Paul
never taught or demanded tithes of any of the groups of people he was a missionary to.  In fact the envoy Paul was a tentmaker, worked with his
own hands, earned his own income, paid his own expenses, and coveted no man's gold or silver (Acts 20: 29-34).  This worthwhile book is
available to read FREE on the internet, or to purchase in book form at: www.tekoapublishing.com/books/intro.html.  It can also be ordered
through www.seedsowers.com, Amazon, Barnes & Nobles, and other book outlets.  The subject of freewill giving is an entirely different issue,
and the principle that Jesus Christ taught, is that when you give alms, do so in secret, and don't blow a trumpet.  It is obvious that Jesus
stated that giving alms is between God and the individual, and is not the business of anyone else.  Along with the false tithing doctrine, is
the very false "prosperity gospel" of television preachers, which is nothing short of spiritual abuse.

When Christians begin to believe the truth about Jesus Christ, they will be set free from all sorts of bondages, because Jesus came to set the
captives free.  And that includes freedom from authoritarianism, false religious traditions of men, and false doctrines that make the followers
of Jesus Christ feel guilty for not falling into line with those who love to have power over others.  The real answer to the problem of
spiritual abuse is to destroy the ROOT.  A good tree produces good fruit, but a bad tree produces ROTTEN FRUIT, and the solution is not to
trim the branches, but cut the rotten tree out by the roots.  Therefore, it is imperative that Christians come to know the truth about the
"clergy" concept of churchianity, and the truth about "tithing".  When Christians exit the institutional churches, and move into private homes
for fellowship, there will be no more clergy dominated sheep to control.

Jesus Christ is the true Pastor/Shepherd/Counselor/Highpriest and ONLY HEAD of the Body.

Cordially,

Van Robison
Kentucky
Saturday, December 31, 2005
vrobison@hyperaction.net

From: Gary McDowel  
 To: info@bleatinglambs.org
 Subject: Lets rethink our definition of "CHURCH"
 Date: 22/12/05 18:37

Dear Barry & Jennifer
            When I received my Western Standard and seen your story it immediately attracted my attention. As I began to read it I began to smile, not because it was a funny story, but because it was so much my story.  My story does not involve legal action but it looks and sounds the same as far as dealing with the Baptist community church that I was involved with. The one that I was involved with belongs to the Baptist Union in Souris Manitoba.
            I am not going to deal with the abusive situation that Iwent through because I would basically be repeating most of your story with a few different scenarios.
            What I want to share with you is were it has led me. It has been an interesting journey and I only want to at this time highlight. If you want to know more of how God has given me victory and a new found insight into what we are dealing with in the organized church you may contact me for more detail as it will be difficult to cover it all.
            It is difficult to know were to start. Let me start by dealing with what I believe is the foundational part of the problem because without recognizing the problem it will be difficult to deal with any solutions.
            I have come to understand that the basic problem is with our understanding of what is the “church”? If we take a look at the term in greek it is defined as: a calling out, that is, (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (Jewish synagogue, or Christian community of members on earth or saints in heaven or both): - assembly, church.
            We the believers are the church. The church is not an organization it is an organism. We have been called out to be part of the body of Christ on this earth. If we are the church then we cannot go to church. The sanctuary in the New Testament is us as believers. We are the sanctuary of the Holy Spirit. The sanctuary is not inside some building in Calgary or Souris. We are the body “the church” if we are putting our faith in Christ. Do not let the clergy try to tell you that that applies to the universal church but somehow the local church is different. The local church in any location consists of all believers in that geographical location irregardless of denomination. Paul did not address his letters to the Baptist in Galatia but to the churches of Galatia. I fully understand that there may be more true believers in one denomination over another, but we are members of the body of Christ when we put our faith in him alone for salvation. The instant we acknowledge that without him we are sinners deserving of eternal judgment and in him alone we can find forgiveness and salvation we become members of HIS church. Your membership in South Calgary Community Church did not make you members of Christ’s church, it made you a member of an earthly organization that is masquerading as Christ’s church. You also should by now know that Christ is not the head of that organization or what happened to you would not have happened.
If you are outside the organized construct I am sure by now someone will have reminded you that you are not supposed to “forsake the assembling of your selves together”. I think we better take a long hard look at that verse within the context of who it was being written to, what was the environment at the time, and what does the surrounding context tell us about how we should define this admonition from the writer of Hebrews. Without dissecting it here let me say that what it does show us in its context is that compared to the old testament system we have everything in Christ. We have need of nothing but Christ. The reason the writer says that we should not forsake assembling together is because when you have it all in Christ you are free and need nothing else or no one else except for one think that we need from each other.
We need to be constantly reminded and encouraged by one another of what we have in Christ, we are to encourage on another to good works and that is more true today than it has ever been.
            How many need to be assembled together to represent the church? I think the number was defined by Jesus. Mat 18:20  For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. That sure sounds like a church to me!
            There is so much more that I could write about but I just wanted to begin by encouraging you that what you have experiences could be to greatest catalyst for leading you into an exciting walk away from the accepted idea of church to a liberating walk with Christ and those that are really interested in having him as lord of their life and learning to humbly walk with him and trust him to help you experience real fellowship within a smaller group of people that truly represents the organism that Christ calls his bride.
            Let me just make an observation in closing. It is usually acknowledged that the fastest growth of Christianity on earth is in China were Christianity is outlawed. How is this happening without the government sanctioned organization that calls itself the church?
There are some interesting books and articles out there on this subject and I am going to give you some links and some titles if anyone is interested in pursuing this subject further.
 
www.ptmin.org Present testimony ministries Many good books on the real church
http://www.meatindueseason.org/newbold/or/harlot/harlottoc.html an E by a past minister on the condition of the present church and the clergy.
Renegotiating the Church Contract: The Death and Life of the 21st Century Church  
James Thwaites
 The Church Beyond the Congregation: The Strategic Role of the Church in the Postmodern Era  
James Thwaites
Church That Works  
James Thwaites, David Oliver
 
Your Brother in Christ
Bought with an immeasurable price
 
Gary McDowell
 

Greetings:

In setting forth the Canadian Charter of Rights, a seemingly positive and harmless document, then Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau was questioned by an MP about the wisdom of placing in the hands of the Court, the power to decide what our rights would be.

Mr Trudeau, in his typical style, brushed off the concern, scoffing at the idea. He observed to the MP that "well, the judges are probably more conservative than you are - so what are you worrying about?"

Still, the MP was not satisfied. He told Mr Trudeau that "if we give the judges this power, they are going to use it." I do not need to tell you what the last 25 years of history tells us about whether or not judges are conservative and whether or not they are prepared to use their power, and whether or not the MP's concerns were justified, or whether or not Mr. Trudeau was right or disastrously wrong. We have 25 years of hindsight in this in Canada and we can applyit to the church as well.

The fact is that if we give pastors/elders power above a level accorded them by Scripture, they will use it. Some will, commendably, by spiritual resources resist the temptation to abuse it. Others will not. But we are at the mercy of all of them in most churches.

In Jeremiah 5:30 - 31 we read, "An astonishing and horrible thing has been committed in the land: The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule by their own power, And my people love to have it so. But what will you do in the end?"

To a great extent, this describes the condition of many churches today. Scipture does not place one pastor (shepherd) over the elders. Elders, shepherds and overseers are of equal status in the Scripture. A pastor over these equals an archbishop and is unscriptural.

We have schools to produce pastors, requiring they exercise gifts that they may not possess. I recall one pastor who was a very humble man. He admitted that he was not a shepherd. But as long as he occupied the position, no one else felt free to exercise gifts that he was "hired" to use. Those members who had preaching gifts were not allowed to use them. To a great extent, we recruit pastors today much as companies
hire managers or people elect politicians.

The Pendergasts' story is not unique. We ran into the same thing also in a Baptist Church where the pastor's wife wanted to take over a work that someone else was doing. I will spare you the details, but it is largely politics and power. As with the judges on the Supreme Court, so in our churches; if we give them the power, they will use it.

One thing I noted throughout this story and the former youth pastor's story was the predominance of women in power. Scripture explicitly forbids a woman to teach or have authority over a man, also that they should speak in church. Women elders is unscriptural period.
An elder must be husband of one wife, not wife of one husband. Again, if we give them power beyond what God allows, they will surely use it.

Having spent most of our lives in churches that allow these unscriptural practices, we have left the denomination entirely and fellowship with a group of believers that follow a more Scriptural understanding of shepherds, elders, and also the role of women. We do not look down on women, not at all; they have gifts which men do not. But they are not the same as men. But the women's liberation movement is well entrenched
in most of our churches as well. Essentially, it is an all-out rebellion against the order of God.

If we disregard the scriptural teaching on limits of power, plurality of elders, the fact that no single elder may function as an archbishop, that women have no place in areas of ministry and worship which the Scripture explicitly withholds from them, then we create conditions that tend to favour the proliferation of a host of evils within the church - all because we think such things were merely cultural and therefore obsolete. But we are not wiser than God.

The sinful nature loves to dominate and lord it over others as Jesus said in Luke 22:25-26. But if we so order our churches as to provide easy opportunity for the flesh to do so, then we will reap a host of troubles.

In the former Soviet Union, it was always permitted for citizen Ivan Doe, so to speak, to criticize the performance of any public official in the doing of his job. But it was forbidden to point out that communism was set up in such a way as to foster the twin evils of 1) discouraging citizens from putting forth their best efforts and 2) bringing out the worst case scenarios in civil governance. You could never touch the system.

To some extent, we may do the same. Change of church policy and governance in and of themselves do not produce a caring and healthy church, but they work much more in its favour. We still need the Spirit. But the Spirit is also the one who inspired the Bible which lays down some basic principles about the structure and function of a church. So we cannot say that we want freedom of the Spirit to follow practices which the Spirit has warned against.

Forgive the analogy, but it is a bit like drinking and driving. There are some people who seem to have an uncanny knack to drive after drinking and yet never get into an accident. They slow down and somehow, despite all odds, make it there safely. I have known people like that. But for the most part, we know that it is a significant contributing factor to causing accidents.

Some could point to the fact that sober people have accidents too. True enough, but alcohol overall increases them. So it is with abusive churches. There will be some healthy churches even in a very authoritarian type setting. And even in ones where they ostensibly follow a more balanced power structure there will be abusers. But on the overall, like the alcohol, supporting a system that concentrates power in few hands in a manner that is not scriptural - is a predictor of abuse.

Like the Russians, we need to look beyond the abusers to the system that provides fertile soil for them to thrive and flourish. Just a few thoughts to think about. I welcome any comments or questions you may have.

Save our Parish!  
 To:info@bleatinglambs.org
 Subject:Spititual Abuse
 Date:21/12/05 10:17

I was recently referred to your website.
 
It is interesting, and very troubling, to see the pattern of spiritual abuse in many religious denominations. Whereas we claim to be "one in the Spirit", we nevertheless find grounds to fault our brothers in Christ with whom we have theological differences. Yet, the one thing we DO have in common is sin, and in this reference, the abuse of faithful followers of Christ by our "shepherds" and "pastors". One may argue that most shepherds are good, and only a minority of them are faulty: and even then, they only treat some people badly leaving the majority unscathed. But it is not a numbers game. Abuse is wrong; it is harmful; it is sinful  -  even just one case of abuse. The "good" people who do not act to prevent abuse, and the "good" people who cover their eyes to it; and the "good" people who obediently accept it as a "cross", are the people who give legitimacy to the abuse and the abusers.  And that is why it goes unresolved in most cases.  
 
Those who have the courage to expose and correct this sin are usually cruelly ostracised from their community. I would hope that we, the marginalised Christians, will continue to be at one with Our Lord (after all he devoted a lot of himself to the marginalised of his time) in living the Gospel message. And in this, let us too be at one with each other.
 
Lucy Sparks
www.saveourparish.com

from: Sally
To: info@bleatinglambs.org
Subject:Church apathy
Date:15/12/05 16:30

I read your article on abuse, and there is another issue that tends to go unnoticed. I am a born-again Christian, but I am no longer attending church. Our church was a very spirit-filled, evangelical Vineyard. We strove to reach out to the hurt and wounded street people...prostitutes, addicts, all those relegated to the outside of mainstream society.
I discovered the hard way that if one wasn't in that group, they were not cared for, and their needs not met. My husband and I were having serious problems, and I went to the leadership and asked for help. I asked numerous times, and no help was forthcoming. I was offered prayer, which I readily accepted, but nothing more.
One day it came to a head, and I told my husband I was leaving. I called my pastor, and told him also. He asked me over and over again to reconsider, but things had gone so long, it was much too late. We are now divorced, and do you know, after having been members of that assembly for more than 6 years, not one person bothered to call either one of us and ask us how we were?
I am sickened in my spirit by those who go by the name of Christian, and yet do not reach out to their bretheren in need. Must I be a prostitute or an addict to receive love and help from the leadership?
At times I find I miss the fellowship terribly..but then I remember the hurt and loneliness, and I know I will not set foot in a church again.

I wish you all the best in your new ministry. I pray it reaches people like myself before its too late. You may absolutely use my story. I prefer if you do not use my last name.
Thanks, and God be with you. Please keep in touch. You may be my only link to Him.

Sally

Winnipeg Mb.

From: L. Hanlon, CD  
To:'info@bleatinglambs.org'
Subject:Read your article in Western Standard
Date:10/12/05 18:40

I've experienced similar. A few years ago I was involved in prison ministry and the ministry leader requested that I do a sermon, but wanted to control the content of my message. Also one of the other ministry members had accused me of lying when I shared a picture that I was in. The
picture was of a group of military personal that participated in replacing a bridge that was built in the early 20's. A similar photo was taken of the original builders. In the photo I was in, I pointed out where I was in the photo and the member accused me of lying. That was the last
time I attended that service with that group.

In another incident at a church I formerly attended, because a number of members didn't like me they questioned my faith. I was also excluded from after church get together's on a number of occasion's. One person had invited me to attend, yet the person next to them gave a very nasty
look. Also, during a prayer service a member of the congregation complained when I laid hands on them. When I first heard the complaint I assumed it was a female member, it turned out to be a male member. And in another incident during a prayer service, I had shared with a female member a message I strongly God prompted me to share with her. She stated that she experiences anger.
and my message to her was that anger was just another mask for fear. The other members involved in the prayer service told me that that was inappropriate for me to share that. Needless to say I stepped out of that ministry. Very discouraging.

On a number of occasion's I've experienced major rejection while attending a number of churches. Needless to say I no longer attend those churches. The church I currently attend is very small, but I am no longer involved in any church ministries.

God has directed me down a different path. Law. I help those that cannot afford the fees of an attorney. Currently I am a paralegal (since August 2000) and I am pursuing a degree in criminal justice, then onto a law degree.

Lee Hanlon

Subject:  Spiritul Abuse Workshop
From:   Barry Pendergast
Date:   16th November , 2005
To:   info@bleatinglambs.org

Just received a great document from Corey Don, a local consultant, coach and facilitator: Dealing with Psychological Abuse: A Heart-Centered Approach. He makes some very good and positive suggestions on how to deal with issues of bullying and abuse. He bases these on personal experience and observations taken in the course of his work for major companies down to non-profit groups. Hope his practical suggestions will be of help to others. Some the advice parallels that given by Tom Knight at the recent Beyond Spiritual Abuse Workshop at Alberta Bible College. To read Corey's contribution click here. We hope more people will make contributions like this to turn this site into a major repository of practical ways to counter abusive situations inside the church and out. Thanks Corey!

Subject:  Spiritul Abuse Workshop
From:   Barry Pendergast
Date:   Wed, October 25, 2005
To:   info@bleatinglambs.org

Here are my notes of the wonderful event at Alberta Bible College last weekend - hope they stimulate some comment:

The subject of spiritual abuse is out of the closet and into the light in Calgary, Alberta Canada. On Saturday, October 22, 2005, 47 Christians attended the first "Beyond Spiritual Abuse" workshop at Alberta Bible College.

Featured speakers Tom King, a local Christian and counselor, Wayne Lewry, Associate Pastor at Calgary's Central United Church and Dr. Evelyn Jain, a doctor involved in emotional counseling, shared many insights on the topics of spiritual abuse, religious addictions and the terrible spiritual and emotional harm done to it's victims.

One message that stood out throughout the conference was that the attendees who had experienced abuse were not crazy to question how the simplicity of God's love and Christ's message of hope could be so badly distorted. More importantly Wayne, Tom and Evelyn provided practical tools and approaches to help those who have witnessed, experienced or are currently undergoing the trauma of spiritual abuse within the church. Nobody should feel shame about being caught in an abusive church experience and neither should one assume there is any quick Dr. Phil fix. Care is needed to find appropriate help to avoid the downward spiral of self defeating guilt that prevents recovery and entry back into a healthy church.

Almost every attendee had their own personal story of abuse by authoritarian church leaders who had misused their privileged position to manipulate and distort God's Word to suit their own need to control others. In many cases the abuse was supported by onlookers who blindly acted as enablers to help hide the truth. It is believed that those
present represented just the tip of the iceberg of hidden abuse.

Most of the attendees indicated that they will be sharing their new found insights with fellow Christians in a spirit of love. Will they be believed? Will their leaders be open to an honest debate on the topic? These are questions for which only God knows the answers. But at least 47 Christians now know that they are not alone.

In the coming days there is need for much prayer to discern God's will for the path ahead. The organizers of the conference are committed to stimulating more courageous and open debate on the topic so that all may be healed - be they a victim or an abuser. Perhaps the basic test of whether a church is safe is if you can you ask your church leaders questions on this topic and get honest caring answers. Must be remembered Jesus said very little on most social issues except the searching questions he posed to the religious leaders of his day. Hopefully we can have the courage to follow His example.

Bravo to Alberta Bible College for taking this first courageous step. Their proactive approach to a problem that many have either ignored or been too timid to open up should become a model that others will soon follow. At the very least they have given hope that the issue of Spiritual Abuse is no longer a secret. All attendees look forward to the next event.

For us what is the next stage in our reconciliation with all those at South Calgary Community Church and at North American Baptist Conference. Listening to Charles Stanley yesterday as I drove to Edmonton he gave a strong message on the obligation of seeking reconciliation even under the toughest circumstances. He likened it to a flat tire that will never get pumped up again with some effort and perhaps help. Also that the longer you leave the attempt at reconciliation the tougher it will be. Perhaps there is an independent peacemaker out there who might help us all make the first step. We pray there might be.

Barry

..

Subject:  Spiritul Abuse Workshop
From:   Name supplied but withheld by request
Date:   Wed, October 19, 2005
To:   info@bleatinglambs.org

Counseling sessions at South Calgary Communit Church should be a considered a "primer" for the upcoming abuse seminar.    This seminar will pickup from where SCCC left off.     Given the large number of people from SCCC that can benefit perhaps a discount group rate should be a applied to all SCCC attandees past and present!

.

Subject:   hi wow this sucks
From:   "becky" <becky_babe79@hotmail.com>
Date:   Wed, September 28, 2005 12:22 am
To:   info@bleatinglambs.org
Options:   View Full Header |  View Printable Version

Hi barry and Jenny

This is rebecca Chaulk and wow this sucks I was just sirfing the net and came upon
an artical that call my mother a back sabing control freak who wanted all the power
not in these words mind you but that sucks big time. I have lived with my mother my
whole life and I really have to say that she is not that person and you and I know
that. Look I think that abuse in the chruch is something that needs to get addressed
but really come one people a web site devoted to the "truth" about SCCC? You have
known' me and my family for years so really not understanding why you get this crazy
perseption of my mum in your head, what do you think about my dad or me? Really this
is just crappy trust me in no way am i picking sides except for the side of my
family by saying the statments made are not true about my mother!!! I have been
hurt to by churchs but instead of devoting a web site where I can share with the
world how much churchs suck i went to bible college to try to change things. Why
can't this be done whay not do something that makes a real difference instad of
banding with bitter church hating people.
I feel like I'm in high school again and I have found some gossip site that bash's
all my firends except this is much much worse cause it's my mum the one who gave me
a life I would have never been able to have. Hey honestly Jesus got killed by the
church(people that followed him) do we see him conplaining in bitterness about it?
NO thanks god for that other wise there would be a web site saying "hey Your all
sinners and screw you cause I don't like that I got hurt" put out by jesus. PJ
(pastor Jim grady) my fond nickname for you how can you let this go on? your kids
must have hated that people slandured your name well i can tell you I can sure see
eye to eye with that! Hey and don't think my parents put me up to this cuas i was
just googlin there names at 12 at night. I feel mayjor dissapointment... people who
i thought loved me and cared have gone around bashing my mum. Ouch! But isn't this
church abuse too? you all were apart of my church- church being a body of
christians that are there for one another and helped raise me...yet i am getting
draged into something I never asked for like you. I hope that this will be over and
the bitterness that seems to still be with you goes away cause this is childish and
really is becoming more like soap opera in my mind then anything else. I would love
to here a respons from you. I am not trying to pick sides again but this is not
right what you said about my mom and I really think I would know unless 20 years of
my life is nothing when it comes to judging character. Please retract the things
you said about my mother I hate it. It's cool if you still want to be mad hopefully
it won't last long cuase I would really like you guys around again for my wedding
one day.

Dear mr jim grady as well this is for you to i missed you ever day for a long time
Your were fabulious in my mind and I know it was unfair what happened and please
know i did try to get to the bottom of it all, i meet some similar yelling tackticks
by some pastors, but you could have said goodbye.I will never forgete going to visit
you one day and not seeing your office sign there just a ripped off glue. I think
that you owed it to us youth to say hey things went down and it sucks but good bye
hey an e-mail or a call a letter anything!! I know your hurt trust me though I am
young I know about churchs getting ripped apart and people getting hurt, but come on
take the high road please... I wanted to be like you and I won't forgete the way you
cared about all of us in the youth but why this why thsi after all this time?? Your
so much bigger then that at least the way I remeber you. Whatever hate me if you
want this just sucks and I am really disappointed in how you dealt with it. I think
that I would have been amazingly influenced by you if things had have been
different but hey i still care about you and you made a difference in my life.
Please make a difference and stop the slandering of these people it's over happened
a hundred, years ago having a web site for church abuse is good but not like this be
freakin proactive in teaching the up and coming pastors how to avoid it or anything
excepte this

thanks Rebecca Chaulk

Note from the Pendergasts:

30th September 2005

Should be pointed out that Rebecca is the daughter of Wayne and Denise Chaulk. Denise Chaulk served as an elder and chairman of the elders at South Calgary Community Church.The Pendergast's welcome Rebecca's questions and thoughts. They remember fondly their times with Rebecca especially when she stayed over at their home while her parents were out of town. They remember her as a vibrant, gutsy, talented and attractive young lady. In a previous emails shown on this site the Pendergast's own daughter made several attempts to register concern with Rev Ron Berg, Director of North American Baptist Conference about the distressing and abusive conditions the Pendergasts faced at SCCC. Many other family members have also been impacted by the abusive acts of some elders and ministry leaders on other individuals. The Pendergasts hope more at SCCC will question how these abusive conditions arose and pray that the final outcome will be a full reconciliation with all those that left the church under these worrying conditions. Worrying in that so many in authority, leadership and in the congregation turned a blind eye to abuse that was happening in front of them. The Pendergasts continue to welcome any serious attempts for reconcilation between themselves and South Calgary Community Church. They further hope to see some of their old long time colleauges from SCCC at the upcoming workshop "Beyond Spiritual Abuse" at Alberta Bible College on 22nd October.

Sun, July 24, 2005 10:24 pm
To:   info@bleatinglambs.org
Subject:   Of bleeding shepherds

There is one group you forgot to mention and this is the perhaps
worst off group of all.

While those who have been abused can move to another church and
hopefully recover... there are many former pastors, myself included,
who have been abused by 'elders,' 'deacons,' and 'good people church
members.'

Many of us will not pastor again... the hurt is so great and tears at
our spirit and our families. I was so abused as a pastor, a person
who only wanted to help and serve God, that I would much rather never
go back to church ever again. Please understand, I love God, I hate
the whore the church has become.

It is even worse for us, we have seen the inside of the dragon. Those
who have been abused by bad pastors may not see the inner workings of
a congregation and can make some kind of an excuse. I have seen the
hate, the betrayal, the flat out lies, the abuse, the tearing down,
the horror of a 'good' church. Which oddly enough has had every
pastor since 1971 resign or force out in some way (wish I knew that
one). The hard part for me is I see the same things in differing
churches I have visited since leaving over two years ago.

I see the hierarchy, the formality, the cheap grace, the dumbing
down, the required things to do. I see the New Testament, the way
the Church was, I read (and know) church history and read the awesome
accounts of those who wanted simplicity. Those who were equal, those
who worked together for the common good, of God's Kingdom. Point me
to a church like that and I will gladly go with joy.

Is there any surprise that there is a pastor shortage?

(Name supplied but witheld at request of sender)

email received 14th July 2005

You are certainly tackling an issue the church has neatly sidestepped.

My sister and family are involved in a highly controlling church. Gives me the willies and has for years, but they'll never leave. At one point, about ten years ago, they opened up enough once to confess a disturbing situation: My brother-in-law cracked a joke in good fun at one of the senior elder's expense. He went from being in the inner-circle of up-and-comers and being actively mentored by leadership to being placed in the ushering ministry where's he's tried to prove he's a good follower since (for over a decade now.)

We counseled them to get out, but by then the church was their entire life. They had no friends outside of church, had alienated our family, and they couldn't do it. Then a few years later a local newspaper ran an expose of financial manipulation and social control in that church, with interviews with former church members. Of course, my sister and brother-in-law discounted it as more of the world hating the church and especially leaders who will take a stand, like their pastor.

The problem is, for many people, the leader and the church aren't completely evil, or even overtly controlling. Members are close knit and they derive a huge social benefit from belonging. And the dissenters leave in trickles, not in waves, so it is easy to maintain the willing suspension of disbelief that there is nothing dysfunctional going on.
But it is a horror story for those, like you, who run afoul of the leadership.

I wish you well with your bleatinglambs ministry.



(The web site will provide details of the newspaper article on an individual request
basis. The articles in the referenced newspaper are verifiable and do add
credibility to the assertions elsewhere on this web site about unaccountable leadership.)

emails sent to Rev Bob Walthers, North American Baptist Conference Representative for Southern Alberta Canada and as yet unanswered:

-From: Barry Pendergast <barrypendergast@shaw.ca>
Date: Wed Jun 8, 2005 3:38:23 PM Canada/Mountain
To: Bob Walther <bwalther@nab.ca>
Cc: mail@brentviewbaptist.com, mwilks@gbccalgary.com, sschuster@hawkwood.ca, scarleton@hawkwood.ca, norm@mtchurch.ab.ca, cmbc@telusplanet.net, terry.fossen@centralbaptist.ab.ca, Parker Shafer <pastorshafer@svbc.ab.ca>, Pat Nixon <PatNixon@theseed.ca>, Tim Callaway <twcallaway@shaw.ca>
Subject: Fwd: Getting Together

Rev Walther
I am looking forward to hearing from you regarding my request to meet. Please let me know what is convenient for you.
Barry Pendergast

Begin forwarded message:

From: Barry Pendergast <barrypendergast@shaw.ca>
Date: Mon May 9, 2005 11:27:50 AM Canada/Mountain
To: ABA@nab.ca
Subject: Getting Together

Rev. Walthers
I think the time has come for you and I to sit down and have a face to face and heart to heart talk. An increasing number of rumours are surfacing about your involvement in our unfair demise at South Calgary Community Church. Its is alleged you have made defamatory statements in order to defend decisions made by yourself, the leadership at South Calgary and their support by Rev Ron Berg and NABC.

I'll look forward to meeting you at a mutually convenient time on your next visit to Calgary.
Barry Pendergast

From: Jan Fletcher
Date: Tue May 24, 2005 1:14:43 PM Canada/Mountain
To: Bleatinglambs.org
Subject: Re: Your New Book


I fully sympathize with the pain and suffering this situation has caused you, and I also understand your desire to create a "repository of good
information on how to recognise and deal with abusive leaders who act in secrecy." I fully agree with the need to recognize false teachings on
authority.

However, I have come to realize that spiritual abuse was, is, and will be an ever-present reality until the Lord returns and separates the two spiritual bodies comprising the professing church: Blood-bought believers and the Harlot of Babylon. As I say in my column, "One Church or Hundreds," <http://www.undergroundbride.com/kadesh/columns/100703.htm>:

"The enemy secretly seeds the newly sprouting field with weeds. God allows the wheat seed and the weed seed to grow together so as not to disturb the wheat. (Matt. 13) We can’t 'weed' the church, because God himself has ordained that the weeds will remain until he harvests the earth. The majority of humanity will always be deceived. (Matt. 7:14) But those who
seek Him will find Him. These are His true Church."

Does that mean you shouldn't testify as to what happened? No. But, you must also keep the biblical perspective. We cannot reform the Church with anything on our own. Only God's Spirit and the faithful preaching of His Word can revive during times of apostasy. We cannot create a system that prevents spiritual abuse. The "natural" son will always persecute the one
supernaturally born. Gal. 4:29: "At that time the son born in the ordinary way persecuted the son born by the power of the Spirit. It is the same now." (NIV)

A true brother who has injured another believer will repent, when confronted by fellow believers. God's Spirit will give his true child no rest until reconciliation happens. A "natural" son will persist in persecuting sons born by the power of the Spirit just as Cain persecuted Abel, Ishmael persecuted Isaac, and the Pharisees persecuted Jesus, no matter how many meetings are organized, or how much human pressure is brought to bear. You're dealing with the blind, and the blind just cannot see the spiritual reality unless God opens their eyes.

The hallmark of meekness -- a gift of grace -- is evident throughout scripture as the quality possessed by those spiritual sons persecuted by
natural sons. Such meekness in the face of harsh treatment will do more to witness God's love and power to those still in the grip of the flesh than all the work we can do. Instead of organizing, picketing, protesting, or similar actions, we should simply preach the true gospel, because the natural sons, sooner or later, will preach an adulterated gospel. It is the true gospel that offers the only cure for both abusers and those abused.

I have seen, in my past participation in a spiritual abuse forum, people quickly reverting to using the means of the world to correct God's Church. May God forbid we appeal to Caesar to clean up the church with laws. If an individual member of the professing church has committed a crime such as murder, or assault, by all means, the right thing to do would be to appeal to Caesar to restrain evil, as God's authority to do so. (1 Peter 2:13) However, any law that attempts to directly curtail the governing of the Church is wrong. It is a spiritual body. How can the rulers of this world understand that? As Paul says:

1Cor. 6:1 ¶ If any of you has a dispute with another, dare he take it before
the ungodly for judgment instead of before the saints?
1Cor. 6:2 Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if you
are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases?
1Cor. 6:3 Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the
things of this life!
1Cor. 6:4 Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, appoint as
judges even men of little account in the church!
1Cor. 6:5 I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among
you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers?
1Cor. 6:6 But instead, one brother goes to law against another — and this in
front of unbelievers!
1Cor. 6:7 ¶ The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have
been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather
be cheated? (NIV)

We do, however, have an important responsibility in exposing and refuting false teaching in the church. This is my purpose for the book I am planning to write. Mature believers, trained in the Word, who know the truth, will not fall under the deception of the false teachings on authority such wolves in sheep clothing propagate for the purpose of "peddling the word of God for profit." (2 Cor. 2:17) They will spot these false teachings for the chains of bondage that they truly are. If they suffer persecution, they are meek as lambs, but lambs they are, and lambs that also know the truth that sets them free and promises them a treasure in heaven no false shepherd can steal.

Dear Barry, I commend your desire to expose the truth. But, I caution you to remember that all of us can fall victim to our own flesh. This is all the more a real temptation when we are doing so for a good cause. The Old Man loves to put on the clothes of good deeds. Please don't fall under the deception that the government will help stop church abuse. God will protect his church, and many times, he allows the saints to be bruised so that others can smell the precious fragrance of Christ within us. Ultimately those who are kicked out of their churches, or lose their titles, have lost nothing of any true importance. We have Christ, and what a privilege it is to follow our Lord "outside the camp," and to share in his disgrace. ( Heb. 13:13 Let us, then, go to him outside the camp, bearing the disgrace he bore. - NIV ) This is how we truly know the pain he bore for us.

We cannot "lose" our ministry when ejected by a professing church, because the one we minister before and to is God. No one or thing or spirit or time can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus. The saints continue to minister whether in bonds or free; whether rich or poor; whether having all or having nothing; whether listened to by those hungry for the truth, or ignored by hard-hearted men; whether in the assembly or cast off and slandered as evil. No matter. Our ministry is forever. The focus of our ministry is our God and Savior. It is all to His glory that we work hard with our hands and our feet and tell of His mighty deeds to the nations.

I was reading today from the writings of George Cokayn, a London minister ejected from his pastorate in 1662. In 1688 he says, speaking of John Bunyan:

"For God -- who had much work for him [Bunyan] to do -- was still hewing and hammering him by his Word, and sometimes also by more than ordinary temptations and desertions. The design, and also the issue thereof, through God's goodness, was the humbling and keeping of him low in his own eyes. The truth is, as himself sometimes acknowledged, he always needed the thorn in the flesh, and God in mercy sent it him, lest, under his extraordinary circumstances, he should be exalted above measure; which perhaps was the evil that did more easily beset him than any other."

Our own exaltation is by far much more of a danger to us than spiritually abusive leaders. No law of man can restrain such a danger. Only God's Spirit can crucify the flesh that wars within us. (Roman's 7:14-25)

Many God richly bless you!
Jan


From: Jan Fletcher
Date: Thu May 26, 2005 11:48:39 AM Canada/Mountain
To: bleatinglambs.org
Subject: Re: Your New Book

Yes, you can publish it, and this one as well. Just link my name to
<http://www.lyingspirits.com>.

I live in Columbia, Kentucky.

While I don't have enough information on the individual cases you reference above to offer specific suggestions, I will answer your question in general terms.

In my earlier e-mail, I was expressing concern over the concept that some endorse of pursuing government involvement in legislating preventions against spiritual abuse. However, there is a separate area in terms of offering "counseling," which can involve the government, and, in America, is not a right protected under freedom of religion. I will mention this first, before commenting on the larger issue of dealing with individuals who experience the kind of severe effects of spiritual abuse you mention above.

If there is a fee-for-service arrangement, and the person offering counseling uses techniques and terminology that would lead a reasonable
person to believe they are "practicing" psychotherapy, then, sometimes, practice laws may come into play. If so, someone can appeal to these
regulations for redress against harm done while seeking “treatment,” as opposed to “discipleship,” if they choose to do so. Of course, they would have to seek legal counsel for a specific situation.

Now, to my general observations: People can and do suffer immensely based on what they choose to believe. God allows such suffering, I believe, for two reasons:

1) If the person is suffering persecution because they believe the true
gospel, which is an offense to men, then they are sharing in the afflictions
of Christ. God provides the means of grace needed to endure this suffering.
However, I do not think the situation you mention above necessarily falls
into that category.

2) On the other hand, if a person accepts a false gospel, or a false Jesus
(a false view of God’s character), through the free exercise of his or her
will, God may allow this person to suffer the intense pain that comes from
this false view of God. He allows this so that people will seek the actual
truth about God as He has revealed Himself in scripture.

Everyone I know who has come through this type of trial is grateful that God graciously brought them to a proper understanding of who He is. While someone is going through this intense suffering, we should combine compassion with persistent, gentle instruction of correct doctrine, and lots of prayer for them. This prayer should never involve methods or formulas that attempt to determine secret information, or to recover memories, as this is occultic. This compassionate instruction and prayer is done in the hope that their suffering will be as short-lived as possible, as well as fruitful.

Many underestimate the life-threatening effects of believing lies about God. Suicide cults are one extreme example of what can happen. Rarely are people forced into this. In the beginning, there is a willful acceptance of a lie that God's Holy Spirit will gently warn against. If that gentle heeding is ignored, God will allow the person, in His mercy and desire that the person ,embrace the truth -- truth that is offensive to the "natural" man -- to experience the sting of a growing enslavement to the teachers and followers of these lies.

If someone leans on the arm of flesh, and engages in a relationship with someone that has gone beyond simple biblical discipleship, he essentially places himself in bondage to another mediator between himself and God. In this case, then, the suffering will be greatly increased because the person has fallen into "confessional" bondage. Once someone learns this the hard way, they will practice much more discretion in the future, and will be very wary of placing a human mediator between themselves and Christ. So much of what is said in a counseling session would be much better said in the prayer closet.

Scripture does not support this type of confessional bondage. This is the same kind of bondage that allowed the Roman Catholic Church to hold millions hostage to the lie of paying one's way out of purgatory. Many in the Evangelical churches are falling for this old lie reborn anew under the guise of "pastor as helping professional" in a mediatory relationship that may be anything but professional. We are to confess our sins to each other. (James 5:16) What commonly happens, however, is women meet alone with false shepherds who encourage them to "let it all hang out," emotionally, as Americans would say, (some call it an “abreaction”), and then, these false shepherds have gained the power over these weak-willed women to extort money or adoration from those who have said some deeply embarrassing things abouttheir husbands, children, and friends. (2 Tim. 3:6)

There is the cultivation of an intimacy that is inappropriate between men and women not married to each other, and, sometimes, unfortunately, this intimacy leads into actual sexual immorality, or, more commonly, replaces emotional intimacy that should be in the marriage, and leads to the woman’sdivorce. This type of counseling should be avoided like the plague!

True elders are supposed to protect women from these predators. The best way to do that is to bring back an old, but much needed concept: discretion! How many have fallen for the lie that the only way they can feel better is to tell all to “ministers” they don't really know the true character of, who have no legal requirement, as a medical doctor would, for example, to keep the information private?

Of course, as a journalist, I agree that it is appropriate to publicly expose false teachers. The problem with trying to prevent spiritual abuse,
in general, is how do you prevent the willing engagement of the "victim" who buys into a belief system that enslaves one person to another? We all have the freedom to choose what to believe. However, it is part of our commission, as preachers of the gospel, to also expose what is a false
gospel. Part of sharing the good news is also exposing bad news that masquerades as good news. Nothing in my previous message should be construed to mean that one should refrain from telling the truth that may protect the sheep and is done with the hope of gaining repentance from both deceivers and those deceived.

A mature believer, in my opinion, will not seek recompense for their suffering. Instead, they will count it a blessing that they were allowed by
God to suffer dishonor. However, they will most certainly preach against a false gospel that enslaves others, even though that public stance might bring even more rejection and persecution. I am totally against justifying silence by hiding it under the name of Christian meekness as a way to renege on our biblical mandate to publicly rebuke false teachers. This is not scriptural. What I do advocate, on the other hand, is seeking the blessing that comes to an individual who suffers being wronged and seeks no compensation, but instead, leaves vengeance to God. (Romans 12:19)

A perfect illustration of what I am talking about is Stephen’s example, in Acts 7:51-52:“You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit! Was there ever a prophet your fathers did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him." (NIV)

He most certainly publicly rebuked false belief! But, at the same time, he willingly placed his life in God's hands while he did so. We must speak the truth, even while they stone us, as we look up to the author and perfecter of our faith (Heb. 12:2), the rock from which we were cut. (Isa. 51:1) Then, we will not "fear the reproach of men or be terrified by their insults."
(Isa. 51:7) (NIV)

Furthermore, we are commanded to expose false teachers. 2 Cor. 11:4 says, "For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough." (NIV) Later, Paul says people who preach a different Jesus, or gospel, are "deceitful workmen." (2 Cor. 11:13 NIV). These workmen wear a disguise of light, but are workers of darkness masquerading as the light.
Then, Paul, in Eph. 5:11 says: "Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them." (NIV) Therefore, we are commanded to publicly expose deceitful workmen, who work deeds of darkness. We do this through our words.

In summation, what I am saying, in answer to your question -- "do you just stand back and let the brutality continue?" -- is no. We don't just stand back. We witness the truth, and, at the same time, expose the darkness. That really is our commission. (Matthew 28:18-20). Do we use the world's ways in doing this? No. Our weapons are spiritual. We demolish arguments. (2 Cor.
10:4-5).

Blessings in Christ Jesus,

Jan Fletcher

Date:23 May 2005

From: David L. Rattigan

To: info@bleatinglambs.org
Subject: www.bleatinglambs.org


Exposing spiritual abuse is not about getting even, releasing pent-up anger or wallowing in personal bitterness. It is about making the church a safe place for the vulnerable, and about protecting victims, both actual and potential, from manipulators who use religion as a way to control and enslave others. What the Pendergasts have done through www.bleatinglambs.org is to save and protect others from the destructiveness of abusive religion, and as one who has both experienced and written extensively on the subject of spiritual abuse, I can only congratulate them.
 
Dave Rattigan

Subject:   bleatinglambs
From:   "Ann Blough" <annblough@shaw.ca>
Date:   Sun, May 22, 2005 9:03 pm
To:   info@bleatinglambs.org


Dear Barry and Jennifer,

The last 2 years + have been a journey in a dry and thirsty land for both of you. As
a Jennifer's prayer and accountability partner I have observed first hand the
spiritual battle that was thrust upon you by believers that lost their first love,
sense of purpose and Christian discernment in a struggle to prove something that
that Christ will never honor.

Until we all recognize Jesus is LORD OF ALL we will be left with emptiness and vain
ambition and with man in all of his weakness on a man made throne.

The website you have have a established is a work of dedication and deep inner soul
searching. One, until walking through the the deep valley with you this last while,
none of us would have ever thought necessary.

Spiritual abuse is subtle, destructive and from the very pit of Hell. It takes
courage, commitment and perseverance to stand against it.

My prayer still remains that one day their could be complete restoration but it
seems only in heaven will we ever this happen. The door has been closed on you by an
earthly church, but I assure the Door of His Church will never be closed.

You both have so much to give to the people who are still seeking Him.

Thank-you for keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus.

Yes, there were times in anger and frustration you reacted, but each time you
recognized hitting back was not the answer and you worked through the anger to turn
it into something positve.

It is my prayer that the people this website will reach, the seminars and workshops
that will be conducted in the future on this topic will be used for the glory of
God.

Bruce and Ann Blough

Message from the Web site - we need your comments - treat this like a blog for the time being - any thought that you can add to the discussion of abuse in the church and how to heal those hurt and those that inflict it. Names will be withheld if requested.TO EMAIL US CLICK HERE