Patriarchy and Abusive Churches.
Rachel Held Evans writes again on the topic of patriarchalism and its role in abuse on women in churches.
Here are a few quotes:
Survivors have spoken out about pervasive abuse or sexual misconduct situations with Sovereign Grace Ministries, Vision Forum, Jesus People USA, the Bill Gothard Ministry, Bob Jones University, Patrick Henry College, Pensacola Christian College, and several missions organizations.
My evangelical brothers and sisters, we have an abuse problem and we need to talk about it. Talking about it does far less damage to Christ’s reputation in the world than covering it up.
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In conclusion…
If you or your children are being abused, get help. If your church or school discourages you from reporting abuse to the police, do it anyway. There is nothing to be ashamed of. (For much, much more on abuse in a church setting, as well as multiple resources for getting help and counseling, see our “Into the Light” series on this topic.)
If you recognize some of your own experience in the stories of abuse above, or if the culture of your church is highly authoritarian and patriarchal, get out. Find a faith community that respects the dignity and voice of women.
Persona 