My Nonprofit Reviews

Even though I knew in my heart that other woman where involved with my pastor, I didn't realize fully the extent and number of pastors that lead woman into illicit relationships. The Hope of Survivors web site information educated me. For whatever reason, I found it difficult to see the evilness in my pastor's attentions. I wanted to believe the best of him. The Hope of Survivors counsel via Samantha allowed me to see that what happened was Pastoral Sexual Misconduct. I'd thought of it as an emotional affair. Now I realize that not only did my pastor neglect to set professional boundaries, he also carefully and secretly crafted, at the church no less, opportunities to seduce me into a sexual relationship with him. His colleagues and wife covered for his sometimes blatant come-ons toward me.
When I complained to the conference officials my report did nothing. The pastor was believed and I was not, because I hadn't collected enough evidence to substantiate my complaint. THOS has provided support to me when no one else would. After dealing with the one pastor who manipulated me, I've met other church leaders that behave in a similar controlling manner. Most recently at a church school where I worked, I endured sexual harassment and discrimination. My only place to turn has been THOS. Anywhere else I was sure to be seen as unstable. Needless to say, my health has been negatively affected by these experiences. The on going ministry of THOS encourages me. I believe the Holy Spirit is using the ministry of THOS to not only help victims, but also to bring change in the church by their presence at General Conference meetings, television appearances, and their dedication to help and educate about this problem. A problem that has been in the church far to long.

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