Dear Cornerstone Beloved Congregation: I write this letter with a heavy heart, not out of anger but out of deep concern for the well-being of this church and all who belong to it. I do so with the desire to protect the truth, honor the dignity of those affected, and, most importantly, safeguard the integrity of the Body of Christ. For some time now, I have witnessed troubling actions by our pastor and the elders of this church that have been harmful to individuals, families, and the very spirit of what we stand for. In an attempt to raise awareness and prevent further damage, I feel compelled to speak out. There is a pattern emerging of manipulation, control, and gaslighting that is steadily creeping into the very fabric of our community. Women within our congregation have been silenced, their voices dismissed, their stories invalidated, and their contributions undermined. When they have attempted to speak up-whether regarding concerns, suggestions, or even seeking assistance-they have faced harsh reproach, sometimes with public humiliation, leaving them in fear for their roles in the church and their place in God's family. Moreover, I must also bring to light the actions of our pastor who has created a toxic environment of fear. Those in leadership, including fellow pastors, have been asked, under the threat of termination or forced resignation, to stay silent on matters of accountability, honesty, and the need for genuine spiritual direction. This pressure to conform has led many to remain in the shadows, fearing the loss of their positions, their reputation, and their ministry. To those who may doubt the veracity of these claims or who feel that it cannot be true in the place where they have so long placed their trust: I urge you to consider this with grace, but also with conviction. The truth of what is happening cannot be ignored simply because it is uncomfortable to face. The mission of the church is not to uphold a figure, an institution, or a group of leaders, but to uphold the truth of God's Word and to honor each individual who walks through these doors as a cherished child of God. The church should be a place where every voice is heard, where leadership is accountable, and where decisions are made with a humble heart for God's Kingdom. But right now, there is a system that encourages silence and compliance. I speak out because I believe it is our collective duty to protect the vulnerable, to speak truth in love, and to challenge behavior that seeks to manipulate or control. We are called to love one another, to build each other up, and to pursue the truth in unity. This letter is not an attack on individuals, but a plea to consider the very real implications of what is happening within our leadership structure and the harm it is causing to the spirit of our congregation. We cannot remain silent and allow fear to dictate our actions. We must courageously uphold the truth, no matter the cost. I pray that the leadership of this church may be guided by the humility of Christ, and that we, as a community, may be filled with the courage to speak out, not out of bitterness but out of a desire to see God's truth and love reign in our midst. May this letter serve as a call to reflection, action, and ultimately, healing. May we always seek the will of God above all else, and may His truth set us free. With conviction and grace, A Concerned Member To the known silent victims of this spiritual abuse-MW, RW, NC, MC, SW, HW, your families and unknown: My heartfelt prayer is that the Lord gives you strength to forgive those who refuse to look inward. These leaders may not fully grasp the spiritual harm, pain and emotional damage they have inflicted. That He fills you with patience and grace to those who are torn, for the realization that some of their chosen spiritual leaders have misused/abused their power is a heavy burden to bear. The pain of such betrayal can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to confront that reality, your reality. Lastly, please forgive me if this action causes further pain and heartache in your healing. I wish to only advocate for you and those silenced and to know that you are not alone in navigating through this difficult time. I pray this in Jesus's name amen. TruthBeltof@gmail.com
