(From the October 2009 edition of HopeSpeak)

“Feeling isolated and unable to ask for help, I kept the secret he required me to keep. I was groomed, manipulated, and sexually exploited by our Senior Pastor. With no apology offered, refusing any responsibility, and with nobody willing to hold him accountable, he ran when I finally told on him. I was not the first woman to be compromised during a counseling session with this man. The Church swept it aside, lending our family little to no support or protection. My husband stood by me from day one. He is my dearest friend, and the love of my life. His support has been without end. A special verse to me is Psalm 62:5, “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him.”

“God used The Hope of Survivors in helping me find my feet on this rocky path. Their unconditional love and support held me through many painful months. Through the knowledge they shared about Clergy Sexual Abuse, and their willingness to be used by Him, I found the way to healing. Samantha, you were a lifeline for me, in the darkest hour of my life...I will always be grateful. Thank you Hope of Survivors!!!”

Jim and Alli, Washington