The Genesis Of Church Related Abuse

Reflecting on the statements of Bishop Talbert Swan in THIS POST as he addressed a particular Elder that had a sharp critique of his message, brought my mind back 180 to the issue of church related abuse and advocacy for survivors of such abuse.

The Anatomy Of Abuse 

Abuse has a plot, or pathway that must be undertaken. That plot exists regardless of the type of abuse. Both sexual or nonsexual abuse follow similar paths...The perpetrator  seeks to exalt themselves, while simultaneously demeaning his victim and others that could be positioned to assist. Abuse is often interpreted initially as bullying, and certainly may have elements of bullying, but goes a step further into consistent derision of character and downgrading the character, intellect and personal ability of the subject. 

Then...there is the theme of abuse which is delivered on the basis of multiple lies...the lie is that the perpetrator has great power, insight and authority, and that authority is inescapable and is the final word on the issue. The lie that, as the Borg say, "resistance is futile"..."no one will believe you"...then the lie of lack of self sufficiency, that the victim can not make it on their own and their efforts are not enough to create self sustainability.

Then, within the structure of abuse, the abuser must capture and diminish the psychological strength of the victim. The abuser wishes to live rent free in the mind of their victim. The goal is to create a false sense of connection that the abuser then uses to deprive the victim of any sense of value or self sustainability. Most individuals that have suffered abuse and abusive behavior struggle with feelings of adequacy(self esteem), anxiety and trust. This is by design of the abuser, because the abuser wants his victims to "trust" him above everyone else and feel as if they can't make it on their own or at the very least without the approval of the victimizer.   

Church Related Abuse?

Yes, this type of abuse is solidly within the church. The problem is that most individuals abused can't discern their abuse, nor decipher the actions of their abuser in many cases. Many tend to write abusive behavior off to "personal preference". What makes this even more pervasive, is that many abusers within the church are persons of otherwise good behavior and personability, but have learned abusive behaviors from others and have come to emulate the abusive behavior to which they were exposed. They implement the abusive behavior that they were taught, which in most cases was affirmed to them as the "right way" to do things.

According to current studies, 95% of all abusers use psychological tactics to perpetrate their abuse and their victims are 3.5 times more likely to abuse others in a similar manner. ~ NIH 2019

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"Alleged" Pastoral Sexual Abusers. Who Will HEAL The Victims?

Yes, the truth is stranger than fiction. As we have stated for a number of years, when all institutions break down in society, there is usually the church to support the people. But when the church itself fails, where do the people go?

As we look at this story of 3 "alleged perverted pastoral" leaders who used and abused not only the young people or persons that they sexually assaulted, but they also used the church in general. However, we must also ask,

Where was ANY system of accountability? 

• Where were the parents, who allowed a 14 year old girl to come home with hundreds of dollars after being with grown men, for hours at a time?  

• Where were the deacons, assistants and other church leaders who knew that overwhelming amounts of time were being spent between children and adults in a private setting?

• Where were the "wives" (if any of these men had any) in seeking to know where their husbands were and who they were with, and why money was "missing"?

This was a total breakdown of any system of accountability throughout this church, now, who heals the victims? In fact in many cases, because of the psychological twisting and manipulation of the abusers, the victim not only feels guilt for the perpetrators being caught, but often don't want the abuse to stop. Then, later, as things return to some sense of normal, they become overwhelmed with rage and anger....Even the members of the church, both young and old, feel abandoned.

Aside from Jesus himself...WHO WILL HEAL THAT???

This is why we NEED Victim's Advocacy!

Lord Help Us All!!!!

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IMBKCAC Restoring The Lost & Healing The Broken

Clergy and church related sexual abuse is a devastating plague that according to one insurance company effects over 160 youth per year for over 2 decades. That is over 3,200 youth that have been used, molested or otherwise inappropriately engaged in the context of the church. Where do we go when the institution charged to heal us, becomes defiled and shirks its responsibility and command to love, protect and restore?

I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council exists to bring dignity back to the fight for restoration, justice and the walk of faith. We announce, we're not finished...we've only just begun to fight!  

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COGIC 110th Annual Holy Convocation: Still Asking For Victims Advocacy

With a 2017 theme: "In This Changing World Let Us Hold On To Our Unchanging Faith" The Church Of God In Christ (aka: COGIC), one of the nations largest Pentecostal/Holiness denominations, prepares for it's 110th Annual Holy Convocation Nov. 6 - 14th 2017. The Convocation is the pinnacle meeting and gathering of the Saints of COGIC from all over the world to celebrate the glory, power and majesty of Christ through the year and in every place.

Though the gathering is a celebration of God's goodness, there is a business element particularly at the end of the successive days of worship in which the General Assembly, the church's ONLY rule and law making body, consisting of certain member delegates and leaders, gather to discuss certain matters of church business and operations. What we can be assured of is that "Victim's Advocacy" is NOT on the General Assembly agenda for 2017 which is somewhat discouraging to I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council (IMBKCAC) founder Supt. Harvey Burnett New Bethel COGIC of IL. 3rd Jurisdiction. Supt. Burnett has advocated for victim's advocacy with an element of independent oversight for a number of years in light of past and present allegations of clergy and church related sexual abuse and sins. In a recent letter to Presiding Bishop Charles E Blake Supt. Burnett stated the following: 

"Quite frankly, I find it hard to believe that as a church we are taking the welfare of victims seriously when nearly every measure that has been taken to "prevent" sexual misconduct provide, if not instruct, the alleged perpetrators of the crimes on their due process rights and basically how to secure themselves and their ministerial futures."

Supt. Burnett goes on to say:

"One would think that in light of the serious fallout and devastating effects of sexual perversion that have been displayed on the news, that our organization would take the lead in dealing skillfully with survivors and seek to assure the public that our churches are a safe place for all worshipers, and for those recovering from all forms of abuse. However, to simply say such means little if we are not carefully, thoroughly and honestly evaluated." 

Without a doubt the mission of COGIC to the community is at its zenith. However, the mission is preformed at a time when allegations of sexual abuse are rocking Hollywood, institutions of higher education, politics, the business community and nearly every facet of American life. It would certainly seem that the issues pertaining to abuse are not going away anytime soon. 

To suggest that the church is not reflective of the community that it serves is more a sign of wishful thinking than reality. The unfortunate fact is that some churches feel that they can self-administer their own brand of healing when sexual abuse occurs and many feel that they do not have to be accountable to the larger community and group to which they are a part. Therefore, many issues pertaining to the healing process of those victimized are often reduced to methods similar to trying to close a gaping wound with band-aids. 

What Can We Do?

What we will do is set forth a solid agenda in General Assembly in 2018. I would say as a people and members that we should begin to call more loudly for healing for those who have been victimized and a better and member centered victim's rights and advocacy platform. 

If you are a survivor of sexual abuse, I would advise that you DO NOT take a settlement in which you waive your rights to speak on the incident or on your experience. Silence or confidentiality agreements are a further affliction of pain and exemplifies cultural abuse. When it is thought that money can be exchanged for personal freedoms, there is a problem on both sides of the issue. 

We will live blog some of the events next week so please stay tuned right here. 

Blessed!

Letter To Presiding Bishop Blake
      

Letter To Bishop Charles E. Blake from Pastor Harvey Burnett

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Questions On Sexual Abuse? COGIC Law Day At The 110 Annual Holy Convocation

Well, I am quite sure that when this forum was designed that sexual abuse and sexual harassment weren't primary topics that the planning committee was thinking that would be addressed, but with the history of unresolved allegations of sexual abuse, clergy sexual sins and the current secular climate of sexual abuse and harassment even in the workplace, it just may be the opportune time for COGIC members, and others, to shore up their knowledge and information on how to handle allegations of sexual abuse and criminal misconduct even within the scope and sphere of the church itself. 

I plan to be there to pose questions and hear the questions of others addressed as well as hear the response of the legal professionals involved. I encourage all of those who are like-minded to meet me there for what I think may be a very special, informative session and unique occasion. 

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"No culture of accountability"

What does sexual abuse and miscounduct by athletes of Baylor University have to do with sexual abuse and clergy sexual miscounduct in a church? Read on, I'll tell ya:

In an interview with ESPN Sports News, former Baylor University football coach Art Briles explains the legacy that will forever mark his tenure as Baylor head coach because of failure to deal with sexual assault and abuse in a manner that was intense and unyielding. 

To be clear Coach Briles could not possibly stop every choice and action of his players. However, the coach and others in the Baylor system could have done a much better job of responding to sexual abuse allegations and handling the issues that forever shape and change lives of real individuals.

COGIC Election

2016 is the election year in COGIC. For years, I have asked this church to get real and deal with some serious cultural issues as it pertains to how it responds to allegations of sexual abuse and clergy sins. To date, we have done little to make sure that a solid system of accountability is in place and That current offenders are not only reported to legal professionals but are removed from office and positions of responsibility within the church.

While we have candidates that feel that they can lead a church, NONE have said a word about this vitally important issue and the church's standing within the community and the world.

Can COGIC create a "culture of accountability"? Or will it allow the culture to come calling on it and demand better of it? 

Once thing is for sure, similar to Coach Briles, who is an upstanding gentleman by all accounts...if we don't deal with it, it will deal with us...COGIC will not be able to escape based in its name...and you better believe that!!!!

Blessed!

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The Black Family, The Black Church & Yes, Adultery IS Wrong!

In the 64th Annual Women's Convention Of The Church Of God In Christ, Presiding Bishop Blake took the time to talk about something that very few expected him to talk about...adultery, sexual immorality, abortion and the condition of OUR church and the Black community. Sounds like a good start to me, but we have a long way to go....Bishop we may want to start with these pedophiles...Sounds like he's been reading some of these blogs on these issues...

Ooh, and could someone please tell President Barack Obama that it seems that "Lame Duck" has officially set in...I certainly hops so...how can we support someone who is against almost all things that we "say" that we are for? 

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Broken Daughters

Jeremiah 8:20-22 ~ 20-The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved. 21-For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me. 22-Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?

Jeremiah 9:1 ~ Oh that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night for the slain of the daughter of my people!

Just when you've thought you've seen it all, a new show called "Preacher's Exes" is getting ready to air "possibly" with the intent of looking at the lives of some of the daughters of Zion who have been hurt and shamed by their so called Ex preacher husbands. I offer no criticism of these ladies. I only offer my prayers and sincere hopes for their restoration and the restoration of others in the same or similar condition. 

“As the preacher’s wife, I felt isolated even in the marriage because no one seemed to care about my pain as the wife who was suffering silently. I did approach my leaders with my issues, but nothing was done. Everyone seemed to care more about us ministering than my home falling apart. This was very difficult for me because I was depressed, misunderstood, and even questioning the God I served and if he really loved me,” ~ Cheron K Griffin II (preacher's ex wife).

Jeremiah 9:17-20 ~ 17-Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Consider ye, and call for the mourning women, that they may come; and send for cunningwomen, that they may come: 18-And let them make haste, and take up a wailing for us, that our eyes may run down with tears, and our eyelids gush out with waters. 19-For a voice of wailing is heard out of Zion, How are we spoiled! we are greatly confounded, because we have forsaken the land, because our dwellings have cast us out. 20-Yet hear the word of the LORD, O ye women, and let your ear receive the word of his mouth, and teach your daughters wailing, and every one her neighbour lamentation

I am not worried about how this makes the "church" look. I see the modern church and it AIN'T pretty. My prayers are for the hurting and those tempted in the same or similar situations. If you are a hurting daughter, I would love to hear from you and pray for you. There is still victory in Jesus name!

Blessed!

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COGIC Sexual Abuse Victim's Advocacy National Conference Call

>>>NEW<<<

COGIC National Conference Call Victim's Advocacy Pt. 1

Conference Call Pt. 2

Conference Call Pt. 3

Conference Call Pt. 4
Conference Call Pt. 5

Supt. Harvey Burnett of the New Bethel COGIC and I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council (IMBKCAC.org) and Pastor D. L. Foster of Report COGIC Abuse (Reportcogicabuse.com) will conduct our first national joint conference call designed to address the current state of clergy sexual abuse and victim's advocacy within the nation's largest Pentecostal denomination, the Church Of God In Christ. This live call is scheduled to take place Saturday April 5th, 2014 at 12:00PM CST.

The call is open to all, but especially to those COGIC members who are concerned regarding clergy sexual abuse, leadership abuse, and its relationship to the mission of the church and what the church is doing if anything to address the fallout of such abuses by ministering to the needs of them affected by such atrocities by way of victim's advocacy. 

There will be a commentary session for the general public that will be moderated and questions will be addressed and an action plan introduced. 

Please pass this on to a friend, we want to saturate the Kingdom of Christ with the seriousness of this issue and what must be done to help the hurting. 

Blessed!

Please see THIS STORY for additional information.  

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Does Reconciliation Exist For Jamal H. Bryant?

One of the first things to do is define the term in the title of this post:

Reconciliation: Reconciliation comes from the Greek family of words that has its roots in allasso [ajllavssw]. The meaning common to this word group is "change" or "exchange." Reconciliation involves a change in the relationship between God and man or man and man. It assumes there has been a breakdown in the relationship, but now there has been a change from a state of enmity and fragmentation to one of harmony and fellowship. In Romans 5:6-11, Paul says that before reconciliation we were powerless, ungodly, sinners, and enemies; we were under God's wrath (v. 9). Because of change or reconciliation we become new creatures. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" ( 2 Cor 5:17 )...Reconciliation is also subjective in that the sinner is spoken of as being reconciled. It is a relationship that comes between man and wife as well as Jew and Gentile. If a person is about to offer a gift at the altar and remembers that he has something against his brother he should leave his gift and be reconciled first to his brother and then come and offer his gift. Reconciliation is something done by the one who offers it; it is not just something that happens to the estranged people. ~ Baker's Online Evangelical Theological Dictionary

Many in ministry today view it as an "inconvenience" when they fail. It is merely a disruption in things that must be "managed". There are PR firms and image management consultants that are hired and go to work to manage and minimize "damage" that has occurred due to sinful behavior.

When all is said and done there is a difference between restoration and reconciliation. There there is a difference between changing because one was "caught" and changing because one is truly sorry. Some instances of reconciliation may take a lifetime. Although we may never know the difference from God's perspective, one thing is for sure, God knows. Certainly we've all made our share of mistakes and committed our share of personal sins, but when one never knows what one is really giving up and what it will take to actually reconcile or be reconciled to God as a result of sins and personal behavior.

Although I will deal with the issue in greater detail in a future post, I wanted to take the time to listen to what Jamal Bryant is actually saying in this video. Is he real? Has he really changed? Did he truly repent or did he repent at all? Please speak on this in the comments section if you can, I am interested to hear commentary on this.    

Remember Jamal's missive to Ebony Magazine regarding their March 2013 "scandal issue" in which he and this incident was named:

"For 67 years, Ebony Magazine has been the drum beat for culture in the African American community. John Johnson its beloved founder dedicated his life to safe guarding our image with great integrity. 

The March 2013 edition has left a hole in my heart. On page 124 they published that it’s alleged I impregnated a 17-year-old member of my church. This accusation is categorically and completely untrue. To publish this with absolutely no source lends itself to reckless endangerment to my children, my congregation and my community.

Ebony is not the National Enquirer. A higher standard is required and the statement jeopardizes my ministry to the youth in my church and community. So it is on moral grounds that a retraction is necessary. 

In 2007 I participated in an extramarital affair that resulted ultimately in the termination of my marriage to my incredible wife Gizelle. NO minors were involved but my minor children have been affected. I don’t want them to have to live through any further unnecessary pain. 

Matthew 18:15 say’s if your brother has sinned against you go and tell him his fault. I solicit your continued prayers for my family, forgiveness for myself and accountability from Ebony magazine. 

Flawed but faithful. I remain, 

Jamal- Harrison Bryant
(A Father and Pastor)

Check Out my post from 2008 that also includes what we know know was accurate information regarding Jamal:  Parlor Tricks & Magic 

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May 2011 John Jay Report On Catholic Clergy Sexual Abuse Still Being Examined

Recently, in performing some additional research for I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council, I came across a 2011 report from the John Jay College Research Team, which did one of the most comprehensive studies in recent times into the nature of clergy sexual abuse and misconduct within the Catholic Church. 

The results of the study were amazing and the information and suggestions that arose from it will be examined for years. There were some interesting notions, which I thought are apropos to our time and efforts in both understanding the mindset which has facilitated abuse within the church and understanding the urgency of delivering restoration of those who have been victimized and are hurting. one thing is for sure, if we look at this as simply a "Catholic issue", then we have missed the boat. This is a Christian faith issue and no matter what church one may attend, there are problems, whether one is aware of them or not. 

Examination

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Open "Confessions", Ebony Style

Well this is a scandalous day to say the least. it seems that every week something new is being revealed or coming to the surface regarding certain persons and those who you thought were your "greatest" ministry personality. There are numerous reasons for this. first, God ALONE is the only one due worship and allegiance. God is certainly reminding us that all "flesh is as grass" (Isa. 40:6, 1 Pet. 1:24), no one is to be worshiped or exalted but HIM. 

With that said, and speaking of "scandal", in a story carried by none other more rigorously than Mr. Obnoxious himself, William G. McCray, it seems that the often worshiped founder of Empowerment Temple, Jamal Bryant, has made an open confession in response to a March 2013 editorial of Ebony Magazine. In the article Ebony set forth an examination of modern day scandals referring to the event which allegedly dissolved Jamal's marriage. Reportedly, Jamal not only committed adultery with a younger member of  his church, he also fathered a child with her. She was later reportedly escorted out of the sanctuary when confronting Jamal about the issue in front of the church.

In a statement (below) the "Alpha Pimp" confesses to "participating" in an affair (what does that mean???) and doing most of the damage, but also claims that Ebony and others are doing even more damage. Well, yes, he did it, and nearly everything else. EXCEPT that, according to him, there were ever any other "minors" involved other than his own children. So that whole incident can be put to rest. (OK...yea, right...)

The Confession

Here's his statement and confession:  

For 67 years, Ebony Magazine has been the drum beat for culture in the African American community. John Johnson its beloved founder dedicated his life to safe guarding our image with great integrity.
The March 2013 edition has left a hole in my heart. On page 124 they published that it’s alleged I impregnated a 17-year-old member of my church. This accusation is categorically and completely untrue. To publish this with absolutely no source lends itself to reckless endangerment to my children, my congregation and my community.
Ebony is not the National Enquirer. A higher standard is required and the statement jeopardizes my ministry to the youth in my church and community. So it is on moral grounds that a retraction is necessary.
In 2007 I participated in an extramarital affair that resulted ultimately in the termination of my marriage to my incredible wife Gizelle. NO minors were involved but my minor children have been affected. I don’t want them to have to live through any further unnecessary pain.
Matthew 18:15 say’s if your brother has sinned against you go and tell him his fault. I solicit your continued prayers for my family, forgiveness for myself and accountability from Ebony magazine.
Flawed but faithful. I remain,
Jamal- Harrison Bryant
(A Father and Pastor)

So what Jamal is saying (or not saying) is that all the reports were accurate except for the report of him impregnating a 17 year old member. he also suggests that anyone making inaccurate statements are lending to the hurt and stability of his family and all involved. 

Now Isn't That A True Pimp Move?

To try to convince YOU that YOU are the cause of the problem for having and formulating your own opinions based on what he did? 

Now, don't get me wrong, there is a whole host of internet conversation on what happened and all of that. I am not in that and never been to Empowerment Temple, am not nor have ever been "blessed" by Bryant's ministry and have not and do not care to meet him personally except that he is willing confess, pray and repent. No one who was there, has ever called or emailed me to share their personal story, and I am not looking for such verification, but I (and we) can look at what he said for himself. 

The Real Issue

The problem is NOT forgiveness or the ability to forgive. Neither is the church to blame nor is anyone else looking on as "Mr. Alpha" seems to suggest. The problem is the attitude that anyone else can do more damage to him and his family than he has already done, and the utter lack of accountability, correction and redirection. 

Yes, this is tough. It's not easy when sins are dragged out before the world. It's even more tough to realize that you have failed and disgraced God, family, the church and community...but it is down right arrogance that blames those who see and know it for making you feel "uncomfortable" or for telling what they know.

This leads to what the modern minister feels is "good enough" so far as repentance is concerned. For them, anyone "talking" (at least those not saying what they want to hear) is "negative" and is not being godly. The onlookers and the ones who have paid their tithe, and faithfully and diligently served, are at fault when they demand a full accounting and a better standard. These are tricks of the "alpha pimp" trade. under the theme that the "mission" is greater than any sin that one can commit, those seems to expect to simply go on, bypass an accounting for self and sin and blame those that are disturbed by the sins claiming that they are somehow at fault. This type of response is almost as big of, if not even more, of a lie than the original sinful and dastardly acts that led to the incidence.

Now, Jamal claims that those talking are making it difficult for his family, when the truth is that he didn't care about any of that at the time he looked over his congregation and chose an illicit lover. There is absolutely no one that will have a greater concern and care for his children than he does. evidently he didn't care, why and how does he expect Ebony, McCray or anyone else to care?

The problem is not failure. Certainly we have all sinned in one form or another. The problem is the arrogance in dealing with it and blaming others for our sins. It seems that if others don;t tell the story, we will tell it ourselves, because the TRUTH simply must be told. One thing is for sure, the word of God is right:

Luke 12:2-3 ~ 2-For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. 3-Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.

May the LORD have mercy on us all as we kneel down, bowing our soul and seeking HIS face!!!!!

Blessed!      


photo: Courtesy The Jasmine Brand

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COGIC Issues Pt. 4..."A Man's Church And A Man's World"

I hope and trust that all the Saints of God and readers of this blog had a happy and joyous Thanksgiving and are having a happy and joyous Holiday season.Yes, we all have so much to be thankful for and I am thankful for the service you render to God and your continued prayers!

Sometimes our plans for ministry are altered or changed from the very beginning. There are many things that we don't start off wanting or desiring to do. (step up Jonah and testify) It is always much more easy to comply with the will of men, some of whom are convinced that they hold the key to the personal and spiritual success of others. From a biblical standpoint, we should be reminded that only God grants favor and only he promotes, sets down and raises up, and that is ONLY according to HIS purpose and will as HE deems fit.  

With those things noted, still at times, we are thrust into situations according to God given and God directed convictions on issues. Many of us recognize this constraint toward truth and the fulfillment of purpose as the "calling of God". 

The Call Within The Call

1 Cor. 7: 20-24 ~ 20-Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called. 21-Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather. 22-For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant. 23-Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. 24-Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.

Desiring for individuals to be healed from the dreadful pain and disease of clergy and church related sexual abuse is no less than a calling of God for me. Focusing on the healing of those who have suffered and been victimized as a result of church related and clergy sexual abuse is nothing that I set out to do or accomplish when I acknowledged the call of God in my life some almost 27 years ago. 

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Is COGIC A "Safe Place" & The 2012 Press Conference

(If YOU or someone you know has been victimized, call I Am My Brother's Keeper (IMBKCAC) or email us at Imbkcac@gmail.com. All  inquiries are CONFIDENTIAL)

Many of our readers know that I conducted a Press Conference on Clergy sexual abuse and victims advocacy at the 2012 Holy Convocation. At least I scheduled a press conference and did manage to do an interview which I will post shortly. In a minute I'll tell you the results of that press conference and what transpired. Until then enjoy this snippet of a message from our Presiding Bishop's address on Official Day.

Now, that certainly sounded like a great message. "I believe that children are the future" sounds so familiar...In fact this is the part of that snippet that especially caught my attention:

"The church has got to be a safety zone for our children. If you are a pedophile, if you are a child molester  if you are a child abuser, if you are determined to pursue sexual misconduct, then either get right or get out!"

Didn't that sound good???

If What He Said Is True, Then Please Tell Me Why...

As I stated in a Press Release regarding COGIC's absentee victims advocacy policy, that I made shortly before the Presidential election, I was on my way to STL to ask church leaders, and the candidates (over 23 of them for the General Board) to undertake the issues of victims advocacy, which is an area that this Grand Ole Church has yet to touch...In other words, the children and adults that suffer from sexual abuse and church or clergy misconduct have NO ONE inside the church or associated with it in any way to help readjust their lives whether spiritually or emotionally and the church does NOTHING to help a victim heal from the atrocity that they have suffered. In many cases they are stepping in to clear themselves of liability or paying settlement funds, but there is nothing in place resembling a victims advocacy plan and neither is there anything considered in spite of my efforts to bring the focus to the issue.

Victim's Advocacy IS NOT A Zero Tolerance Policy. OK, do I have to say once again that a a zero tolerance policy against clergy sexual misconduct and screening of pastors and leaders IS NOT a victims advocacy policy???? It seems like I have to consistently say this especially to people who should know the difference. A "zero tolerance policy" is certainly a step in the right direction, but it is NOT a victims advocacy policy. Do we really not understand the difference between the two? I only ask because most every one I speak to in leadership, either doesn't know the difference or wants me to believe that they don't know the difference. As I tell my kids, "I can't call it", but what I do know is that is the case....That is a sad case, but it is true.

Contacting The Presiding Bishop

Well, out of honor and respect, even though my 2009 proposal faxed to Bishop Blake and the then General Board went unacknowledged, I tried once again to engage our Presiding Bishop by contacting him through his personal assistant by email in STL the night before the conference was to take place seeking to establish a partnership with him seeking to work together in addressing this very important and serious issue. My tone was positive reserving the right to speak truth.

Here is the part that should be of special interest to every person who is a member of COGIC and otherwise, that has received misinformation and LIES regarding my efforts; this is what I said to the Bishop in a letter to him:

"So that you will know, unlike some of my friends and associates, I am not willing to bash our church. However, I am willing to tell the truth in effort that we can come to greater and higher accountability and implement programs in favor of those who have suffered the greatest among our ranks."

One can read the full email letter that I sent to Bishop Blake and  that he received, by clicking HERE.

What Happened?

Well, the Press conference was delayed due to my late arrival. (about 30 minutes ) Clearly this was not a COGIC press session...COGIC did not call it at all. I,  through I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council,  called the conference and media inquiry, complete with our phone number and email for clarification, questions or concerns.

Unfortunately, some media asked COGIC about the Press Conference. When that happened, COGIC press core evidently had been instructed to inform the media that the press conference, which they had nothing to do with, had been cancelled....WHAAAAAT???? CANCELLED????

This is the interview with Erin Williams of STL. Public Radio regarding the issue. 

Who instructed COGIC Press Core and staff to tell the media that a press conference that I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council had called regarding clergy sexual abuse and the lack of a victims advocacy policy within the Church Of God In Christ, had been cancelled??? Better yet, why would COGIC officials evidently  INSTRUCT the press core officials to tell the media that a press conference,  which implicitly and explicitly deals with the safety of CHILDREN and adults that suffer from church related abuse, had been cancelled???

Is the church really a "safety zone"? Then why are the voices calling for the safety of individuals through advocacy  SILENCED?Why is there obfuscation on the issue???

Now, before one begins to shout and say that "the Lord confused the enemy", which is invariably a certain statement of ignorance and scriptural illiteracy as it pertains to this issue, one should ask, who is the enemy???...Is the enemy the one stifling the victims that have been abused and suffering life changing atrocities, or is the enemy those who speak up for the victims trying to find a way to make their lives better???

The Rest Of The Story

The reason I am taking time to explain this is because many people, and I say many people were praying for this event and praying for some acknowledgement from COGIC over the plight of victims of this type of ungodly abuse at the hand of COGIC personnel. I certainly appreciate all the prayers and support I received for this, but we're not through yet...

Once I saw where this was going I did two things in response. First, I held the Press Conference anyway. 

The full text of what I said in a prepared statement can be found by clicking HERE.

Of course, this was to the dismay of some reporters who contacted my office, complaining that there was no press conference after the fact. When I explained the situation, they (members of the press) finally understood that they should have read and followed the instructions in the release, because none of the press realized that they were entering into the COGIC landmine of obfuscation and excuses for poor service and misdirection...and Yes, I did endorse this message....

The Search

Secondly, along with my my personal assistant who witnessed the entire series of events, I went to the administrative offices to speak with Bishop Blake and Bishop Enoch Perry. After finding their section of St. Louis, I made it known clearly who I was and that I would await for them to meet me, as I desired to speak with them, and had heard that at least Bishop Enoch desired the same. After a brief wait, we were told that they were unavailable due to meetings and that they couldn't speak...Not even their assistants were available to speak with us. 

I thought that funny because only two weeks prior Enoch Perry himself had spoken to my Bishop, Bishop Robert Sanders of Illinois Third, asking him all kinds of questions about me, even having my report payment history in front of him. Go for the MONEY....It seemed that now that I was in his presence, neither he nor any of our Presiding Bishop's assistants could meet with me or discuss any issues of exactly why I was doing what I was doing or even ask any questions pertaining to it at all. 

For The Critic: 

Invariably, there are corporate lovers, and cronies that will see the corporation of COGIC right no matter what is done. That's OK, I am not trying to prove it wrong as a corporation. What I am saying is that there is far too much lip service given to the issues and no impetus placed on those who have lost and had their world turned upside down due to the sins of some, deemed charlatans. 

2012 COGIC Presiding Bishop
& General Board

Why am I talking about the church and officials like this? First, because it is 100% TRUE. Secondly, because it is horrific for our leaders to chase financial improprieties as they do, making those situations high priority looking to find dollars that they think are lost,  while at the same time making very little time for anyone that solely wants to address the value of human life and assist in addressing the plight of victims who have been hurt due to these type of clergy sins and abusive situations...

The question is how can anyone contend that serving victims as we do with utter silence and distribution of checks under the right circumstance is Godly service or according to a biblical mandate? How can the church continue to roll on without a victims advocacy simply because the impression is that this would mean admission of guilt and potentially cost the church more money....

OK, if it costs the church $800,000 per claim of sexual impropriety according to the statements of our Presiding Bishop in the COGIC General Assembly record, and we can trace the loss of jurisdictions, property, not to mention the disheartening of countless souls, how can we simply get by....Let me ask this:

If Penn State University COULD NOT get by, because, in essence, it did not handle victims properly, how can the Church Of God In Christ feel that it will get by if it continues to fall derelict in serving the spiritual needs of those among us who have been damaged by clergy and church abuse? How can we escape if we don;t provide a tangible and real way to help them? Are the new and reappointed General Board members of this church ready to deal with this issue? One thing is for sure...the issue is NOT going away!!!!!

Blessed!

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105th Annual COGIC Holy Convocation & Victims Advocacy Press Release

As you can see, "Seeking God's Way...Through Prayer, Obedience, And the Word"  is the theme for the 105th annual COGIC Holy Convocation which begins Monday Nov. 5th - 13th 2012.

With a church General Board election in which over 23 candidates are vieing for 12 seats of position of what has been otherwise deemed to be "power", and a National Presidential election, all on the heels of one of the worst hurricanes that the Eastern United States has seen in almost 2 decades, makes it a sure bet that this week promises to be an historic and event filled week one way or another.

Is There HOPE?

Yes, there is hope, and the good news is that the theme points us in the right direction.

IF we are seeking "God's way"...he has promised that we will find it

IF we are going to God in prayer for HIS intervention...he has promised to answer.

IF we are looking to make sure that we are obedient unto HIM...he has promised that IT (the act of obedience) is better than any sacrifice that could be made.

and

IF we are seeking HIS WORD...HE will not hide himself and will make it abundantly known as it is HIS WORD that has established the order of all that we see and are aware of and all that is unseen and unknown to us.

We Need Clarity Because There Are Issues?

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Fear To VICTORY, Overcoming COGIC Clergy Sexual Abuse & Silence

Go To: I Am My Brother's Keeper Christian Advocacy Council
Links Have Been Updated!
Fear To Victory, Overcoming COGIC Clergy Sexual Abuse Pt. 1 

Fear To Victory, Overcoming COGIC Clergy Sexual Abuse Pt. 2 

Fear To Victory, Overcoming COGIC Clergy Sexual Abuse Pt. 3
For The First Time Hear SURVIVORS of COGIC Clergy Sexual Abuse Tell Their Own Story 

Since 2007 this ministry has worked hard to fight for and give voice to the victims of sexual abuse and clergy sexual sins within the Church Of God In Christ.  In 2011 Elder D.L. Foster of ReportCOGICAbuse.com and myself conducted a 2 part interview ( COGIC Issues Pt. 1, COGIC Issues Pt. 2) regarding the level and depth of victimization that had taken place within our church. One of the areas that was addressed was the church's failure to acknowledge those who have been victimized by the ungodly actions of certain individuals who simply lived contrary to their faith by  failing to understand the standard of responsibility that they were supposed to have maintained by shepherding the flock of God and protecting those members of it at all times. 

1 Pet. 5:2-3 ~ "2-Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3-Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock."

Although we are are glad that the church has taken steps to assure that leaders are properly screened and vetted before becoming COGIC pastors and representative leaders, and for what is called a "zero-tolerance policy" against sexual harassment and abuse, we are yet saddened because of the continued culture of silence that exists as it pertains to how the abused are treated, and the overall official church response to such issues of vital importance. Plainly speaking, it seems that the church feels, that it is better to avoid the victims all together, saying nothing to them or their families in any official capacity and, on occasion, writing a check to make victims go away, rather than pouring the healing salve of Jesus.

Over 20 Years In The Making

Needless to say, being unresponsive to victims that have endured hardships and pains, much of which may never fully be told, is a second victimization of those that have been damaged by clergy sexual sins. This victimization is a deafening silence in response to accusations,  and failure to act swiftly in the removal of those who have engaged in criminal activity. 

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Image, Assets & Liability Pt. 3...The "COGIC Shuffle"

"We now live in a litigious society. People file lawsuits for every conceivable grievance, whether real or imagined. To protect the name, image, and assets of the Church of God in Christ, we must take positive steps to seriously investigate very case of alleged sexual abuse by the clergy. We must stand behind and support those who are falsely accused of sexual improprieties and found innocent by the courts. We must also insure that the Church act quickly to take firm and positive action against those who violate the sanctity of their positions and are found guilty of sexual abuse and other sexual improprieties.” Bishop Charles Blake, Presiding Bishop Church Of God in Christ Inc. Oct 29, 2007

In PART 1 and PART 2 of this mini-series, I have looked at both secular and church sexual abuse and the fallout associated with it. By now, I hope that we can see that there is a devastating affect upon the complete and entire community when trust is betrayed in this manner. However, what happens when the church looks past sexual abuse and misuse, even when it is discovered years later, only to focus on image, assets and the way we "do things"?

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