April Avila is one of the featured interviewees in Let Us Prey: A Ministry of Scandals, a new four-part docuseries exposing the predatory and insidious behavior within the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) Churches, and the struggles of survivors to find justice. Featuring first-hand accounts from survivors, church defectors, and activists, Let Us Prey offers crucial insight into the troubling culture within the IFB and the stronghold the churches have on its members. All four parts of Let Us Prey: A Ministry of Scandals premiered across two nights Friday, November 24 and Saturday, November 25 starting at 9/8c on ID.

Since its inception in the 1950s, the IFB has evolved into one of the dominant religious forces in the United States today with an estimated 8 million believers spread out over 6,000 churches across the country. Let Us Prey uncovers the dark innerworkings behind the IFB’s cheery and virtuous exterior by exposing depraved secrets and violence that have existed within their churches for decades. Rituals oriented towards “breaking a child’s will,” mind control and torture are only the tip of the iceberg. Below the surface lurks accusations of rape and physical abuse of members, including minors, at the hands of IFB figure heads.

Anchored by the testimony of survivors who have come forward to tell their stories and seek justice, Let Us Prey explores the deep pain and lifelong trauma they experienced. Survivors and IFB defectors Ruthy Heiler, Kathy Durbin and Amanda Householder, among others, share their accounts of abuse at the hands of church leaders and the violence, manipulation and suspected cover-ups of other members. Also featuring key independent voices, including Fort Worth Star-Telegram reporter Sarah Smith – one of the first journalists to uncover IFB’s tangled web of abuse allegations and unregulated teen boarding schools – Let Us Prey offers a deeper understanding of how those within the IFB have continued to operate unchecked for years. Through powerful, emotional testimonies and archival footage, Let Us Prey reveals the sexual abuse of IFB members and the insidious efforts to cover up pastors’ abuse and silence survivors.

Let Us Prey: A Ministry of Scandals is produced for ID by ITV America’s Good Caper Content, with Emmy Award-winning Director Sharon Liese, who created the series, serves as the director. Liese is a critically acclaimed and award-winning filmmaker, whose recent Emmy Award-winning documentary short, The Flagmakers, was Oscar shortlisted and nominated for a Critic’s Choice Documentary Award.

Use #LetUsPrey to join the conversation and follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and YouTube for exclusive content.

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Ruthy Heiler is one of the featured interviewees in Let Us Prey: A Ministry of Scandals, a new four-part docuseries exposing the predatory and insidious behavior within the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) Churches, and the struggles of survivors to find justice. Featuring first-hand accounts from survivors, church defectors and activists, Let Us Prey offers crucial insight into the troubling culture within the IFB and the stronghold the churches have on its members. All four parts of Let Us Prey: A Ministry of Scandals premiere across two nights airing Friday, November 24 and Saturday, November 25 starting at 9/8c on ID.

Since its inception in the 1950s, the IFB has evolved into one of the dominant religious forces in the United States today with an estimated 8 million believers spread out over 6,000 churches across the country. Let Us Prey uncovers the dark innerworkings behind the IFB’s cheery and virtuous exterior by exposing depraved secrets and violence that have existed within their churches for decades. Rituals oriented towards “breaking a child’s will,” mind control and torture are only the tip of the iceberg. Below the surface lurks accusations of rape and physical abuse of members, including minors, at the hands of IFB figure heads.

Anchored by the testimony of survivors who have come forward to tell their stories and seek justice, Let Us Prey explores the deep pain and lifelong trauma they experienced. Survivors and IFB defectors Ruthy Heiler, Kathy Durbin and Amanda Householder, among others, share their accounts of abuse at the hands of church leaders and the violence, manipulation and suspected cover-ups of other members. Also featuring key independent voices, including Fort Worth Star-Telegram reporter Sarah Smith – one of the first journalists to uncover IFB’s tangled web of abuse allegations and unregulated teen boarding schools – Let Us Prey offers a deeper understanding of how those within the IFB have continued to operate unchecked for years. Through powerful, emotional testimonies and archival footage, Let Us Prey reveals the sexual abuse of IFB members and the insidious efforts to cover up pastors’ abuse and silence survivors.

Let Us Prey: A Ministry of Scandals is produced for ID by ITV America’s Good Caper Content, with Emmy Award-winning Director Sharon Liese, who created the series, serves as the director. Liese is a critically acclaimed and award-winning filmmaker, whose recent Emmy Award-winning documentary short, The Flagmakers, was Oscar shortlisted and nominated for a Critic’s Choice Documentary Award.

Use #LetUsPrey to join the conversation and follow on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and YouTube for exclusive content.

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Isami is a subject matter expert on anti-human trafficking and child safety.

She grew up in Japan and was raised by professional con artists under the guise of "missionaries." Her home was an unsafe place for children, as her mother became her sex trafficker at the age of 9. Once she left her abusive home as an adult, she redefined her faith and continued to serve at her local church.

Her mission is to be a voice for the exploited and abused within religious settings and educate leadership on anti-human trafficking and child safety.

Isami has a B.S. degree in interdisciplinary studies (Graphic Design/Communications+Psychology), has completed professional training in global and domestic anti-human trafficking, has an active ICF coaching certification, and has appeared on multiple shows/podcasts internationally and within the United States. 

​Her story of resilience has allowed her to connect with thousands of survivors across the globe.

https://www.isamidaehn.com/

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For three years, I've had to keep this under wraps, and I can honestly say it's been one of the hardest secrets I've ever had to keep! I'm honored to share the screen with so many brave, amazing people. I love everyone involved and am thankful for close friendships that have been formed over the past few years—some initially through the podcast and others as a result of this series.

I also want to especially thank our director, Sharon, our producer, Sam, and all of the talented crew that made this possible. Being a part of this project has been such a surreal experience, and I can't wait to share this series with you very soon. Please make sure to tune in!

“LET US PREY: A MINISTRY OF SCANDALS" premieres across two nights, airing Friday, November 24, and Saturday, November 25, starting at 9/8c on ID.

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Welcome back to the Preacher Boys podcast! In this episode, we dive into your questions and address some crucial topics. Host Eric Skwarczynski is joined by Michael McNeilly, also known as the Sheriff of the Preacher Boys Official Discussion Group. We've handpicked a selection of your queries from the YouTube comments, and if you have more on your mind, don't hesitate to drop them below.

We start by clarifying the relationship between Travis Chappell and Paul Chappell, a common source of confusion. While Eric has collaborated with Travis Chappell for several years, it's essential to note that they are not related, despite their associations with Lancaster Baptist Church.

The central focus of this episode revolves around addressing church abuse and how different churches respond to it. We discuss the importance of churches taking a stance against abuse, even when it's not occurring within their own walls. Michael McNeilly shares valuable insights, emphasizing the need for consistency and holding churches accountable. We explore the responsibility of pastors and church leaders when it comes to partnering with other institutions and the significance of not turning a blind eye.

Next, we tackle the topic of Crown College in Tennessee and whether it has faced issues of abuse. Eric shares his approach to covering stories related to abuse within religious institutions, highlighting the importance of credible information and personal experiences. We encourage anyone with information about Crown College to come forward and share their stories.

Moreover, we delve into conversations about the nature of church structures and whether they resemble business models. Michael McNeilly highlights the variations in church and college relationships and how they can affect the overall dynamics within a religious institution.

The discussion also touches upon the deflection of responsibility and the need for churches and individuals to take proactive steps to prevent abuse and ensure the safety of their community members.

This episode presents various perspectives on these vital topics and emphasizes the importance of addressing abuse and accountability within religious organizations. Join us for this insightful and thought-provoking discussion on the Preacher Boys podcast, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes!

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Read my Full Article: https://preacherboys.substack.com/p/jill-duggar-is-monetizing-her-trauma

As Jill Duggar says in her book, she had to keep her reality separate from the narrative presented on reality TV.

What people had seen in the past was essentially Jim Bob's twisted narrative.

Now, she's brave enough to share the truth about her experiences for the first time ever.

We should support that, just as we should support any survivors in telling their own stories how they see fit.

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Past Duggar Coverage: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3bVHY_fIafUy_064Kb55IaE3CSOtK9tC

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Subscribe to my free Preacher Boys newsletter: https://preacherboys.substack.com/

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Stephen Ayon – Music Director at Fishers Baptist Church in Fishers, Indiana – was arrested on September 29, 2023, on six felony charges after being confronted by self-proclaimed predator hunters. He was charged with…

1. Dissemination of matter or conducting performance harmful to minors: Knowingly/Intentionally disseminates to minor

2. Child Solicitation: solicits for intercourse/other sexual conduct AND uses comp AND travels to vic b/t 14 &16 AND def 21+ 3. Child Seduction: Def. has professional relationship w/ child and engages in sex or sexual conduct w/child 14-15

4. Sexual Misconduct with a Minor: Def. engages in other sexual conduct with child 14 or 15. Def. is 21+.

5. Human Trafficking: K/I recruit/entice/harbor/transports a child under 16 with intent to participate in sexual conduct

6. Vicarious Sexual Gratification AND Victim(s) under 16, but older than 13. Fishers Baptist Church operates a PreK-12th Grade school, but it is unclear whether Ayon had any direct involvement with that ministry.

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SOURCES:

https://www.wishtv.com/news/crime-watch-8/fishers-christian-academy-teacher-facing-charges-after-allegedly-dating-underage-student/

Footage from @predatorhuntersindiana  : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cslp4cyt-h0&t=1s

Additional Footage from @nycreepsspotlight2858 : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjQIWAdGu5g

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Join the 30 Days of Courage NOW, and you'll be part of a powerful FREE online event starting October 1st-30th inside the Courage 365 Facebook group.

This year, we're taking it to the next level! Prepare to be blown away and empowered as we bring you incredible survivor and advocate panelists who will share their courageous insights and stories that will leave you inspired.

But that's not all! Join our exclusive interactive online Facebook group, where you can connect and grow with others who truly understand the journey of healing and empowerment. Share your experiences, get support, and be a part of a community that champions your growth.

Are you up for a challenge? Participate in our weekly self-care challenges that will help you prioritize your well-being and unlock the best version of yourself. And the best part? You stand a chance to win absolutely amazing prizes along the way!

Wait, there's one more thing you can't miss! Mark your calendar for the highly anticipated event on October 30th, where we'll host our first ever LIVE and interactive game show. Get ready for an excitement-filled evening as we put our 3 contestants' knowledge to the test with trivia from the panelist discussions. It's going to be an unforgettable experience!

Get ready to embrace the bold new journey of empowerment and connection. Join us this year for an experience like no other. Trust us, you won't want to miss it!

JOIN NOW: https://www.courage365.org/thirty

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This episode is made possible by Audible. Claim a FREE 30-day trial of Audible Premium Plus here: https://amzn.to/4563R2W

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On today's episode, I'm breaking down a couple of headlines of abuse within the Independent Fundamental Baptist Movement, giving some expanded thoughts on Jill Duggar's book Counting the Cost, and sharing a really fascinating portion of my conversation with a Bob Jones University graduate I encountered on my other podcast, Film School'd.

SOURCES REFERENCED:

Nic Corl: https://jimspub.riversidesheriff.org/cgi-bin/iisinfo.acu?bkno=202337728G

Conner Coleman Arrest: https://www.leader-call.com/news/free_news/youth-minister-charged-with-molestation/article_fa9ac5a4-5402-11ee-b413-8ba0675540a3.html

Benjamin Garlick Arrest: https://www.wgnsradio.com/article/83231/evangelist-guest-pastor-at-a-variety-of-churches-arrested-on-multiple-rape-of-a-child-charges-in-murfreesboro

Timeline of David Hyles' alleged abuses: https://www.preacherboyspodcast.com/david-hyles-update-the-more-things-change-the-more-they-stay-the-same

FULL INTERVIEW WITH NICK MATTHEWS ON THE FILM SCHOOL'D PODCAST: https://youtu.be/AwFnWnSLbTo

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Prepare for an intimate and inspiring evening of storytelling, song, poetry, and art featuring a diverse line-up of thriving survivors…

The 1st Annual Story Jam is happening in St. Louis!

Be they cults, high-demand groups, organizations or companies, spiritually abusive churches or families, or high-control schools or programs, our stories can shed light on the dynamics that held us captive.

If you have been involved in a “power over” abusive environment and are willing to listen to cautionary tales and miraculous misadventures (miraculous because we got out and survived!), we hope you’ll join us for an intimate evening of creative performances by fellow cult survivors and advocates!

Get your tickets here:

https://www.igotout.org/story-jam

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Purchase a copy of Counting the Cost here: https://amzn.to/3LsOXNj

For the first time, discover the unedited truth about the Duggars, the traditional Christian family that captivated the nation on TLC’s hit show 19 Kids and Counting. Jill Duggar and her husband Derick are finally ready to share their story, revealing the secrets, manipulation, and intimidation behind the show that remained hidden from their fans.

Jill and Derick knew a normal life wasn’t possible for them. As a star on the popular TLC reality show 19 Kids and Counting, Jill grew up in front of viewers who were fascinated by her family’s way of life. She was the responsible, second daughter of Jim Bob and Michelle’s nineteen kids; always with a baby on her hip and happy to wear the modest ankle-length dresses with throat-high necklines. She didn’t protest the strict model of patriarchy that her family followed, which declares that men are superior, that women are expected to be wives and mothers and are discouraged from attaining higher education, and that parental authority over their children continues well into adulthood, even once they are married.

But as Jill got older, married Derick, and they embarked on their own lives, the red flags became too obvious to ignore.

For as long as they could, Jill and Derick tried to be obedient family members—they weren’t willing to rock the boat. But now they’re raising a family of their own, and they’re done with the secrets. Thanks to time, tears, therapy, and blessings from God, they have the strength to share their journey. Theirs is a remarkable story of the power of the truth and is a moving example of how to find healing through honesty.

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RESOURCES MENTIONED:

➡️ My appearance on the Surviving Bob Jones University Podcast: https://bit.ly/3LrOfQi

➡️ 30 Days of Courage (FREE Virtual Event for Survivors): https://www.courage365.org/thirty

➡️ Past coverage of Mountain Avenue Baptist Church: https://youtu.be/zCi_4byxIVA

➡️ Purchase Counting the Cost: https://amzn.to/3LsOXNj

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Erin Burchwell is a Columbus, Ohio-based florist, designer and illustrator. She grew up as a faculty kid on the campus of Bob Jones University, an extremely conservative Christian college known for its strict rules and controversial beliefs. In 2014, Erin interviewed with GRACE, an independent ombudsman who reviewed the University’s mishandling of sexual assault reports. She and others chose to break their anonymity in the report when the school fired the GRACE team.

Erin manages her own floral business specializing in events, décor and commissioned murals. Some of her work was recently featured online by Architectural Digest this year. She has illustrated three children’s picture books about Ohio and enjoys visiting schools and teaching students about publishing.

Erin’s commitments extend well beyond her business. She is a dedicated volunteer teacher and fundraiser for many organizations including nursing homes, women’s prisons, after-school programs, and children’s museums. She lives with her husband, Jason, her daughter Gracie, and two dogs, Fred and Mose.

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Find more stories regarding the IFB movement by visiting:

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Purchase a copy of Jessica Willis Fisher's memoir here: https://amzn.to/3qVyhXU

Growing up the eldest daughter in a large, highly controlled, fundamentalist Christian household, Jessica Willis was groomed to perform and conform to her father's disturbing and chaotic teachings. Cut off from anything unapproved by her father, Jessica was persistently curious about the outside world, always wondering what was normal or potentially dangerous about her upbringing.

When the Willis family rocketed into fame after their appearances on multiple televised talent competitions in 2014, Jessica and her family landed their own reality TV show and toured across the globe, singing and dancing for millions. The world loved this beautiful family of kids; young and vivacious, the Willis's presented themselves to be extraordinary and happy. But the older and wiser Jessica got, the more she had to face that what was going on behind closed doors would forever be escalating.

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North Love Baptist Church is embroiled in a scandal involving over thirty allegations of sexual abuse. The accusations span across various ministries, including North Love Christian School and Reformers Unanimous. Pastor and co-founder Paul Kingsbury, who led the ministry for decades, resigned amid public outcry in 2021.

While not directly named in the lawsuits, Kingsbury's role in the mishandling of these allegations is under scrutiny. 

In a surprising turn of events, Kingsbury has now partnered with David Hyles, a figure with a controversial past in the Baptist community.

Watch as we delve into the shocking details and explore the new ministry announced by Kingsbury and Hyles.

SOURCES:

Past Preacher Boys Coverage:

https://bit.ly/3KYDBR7

Rockford Register Star | November 19, 2021:

https://www.rrstar.com/story/news/2021/11/19/north-love-baptist-church-allegations-rockford-what-we-know/8574973002/

Paul Kingsbury + David Hyles Announcement:

https://bit.ly/3KZmUox

Harvest Baptist Church + Pastor Marvin Smith:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3bVHY_fIafXKWxdKUqi35Qv5z1bNlBv4

https://www.preacherboyspodcast.com/kingsburytexts

https://www.preacherboyspodcast.com/david-hyles-update-the-more-things-change-the-more-they-stay-the-same

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[This interview was recorded prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike.]

Jon Snow is an actor and writer, but he is first and foremost the survivor of both a cult and of sexual abuse.

Raised primarily in St. Louis, Missouri, Jon ran away from home and the cult when he was just 17 years old, between his junior and senior years of high school. The cult, the sexual assault, and the physical abuse endured by his mother left Jon feeling powerless. A young man without a voice.

Not long after running away, acting came calling in the form of a mostly paid-for tuition at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. But even that was no walk in the park. He promptly failed out of college during his freshman year, after which he sheepishly returned to St. Louis. 

Four years later, Jon returned to Dallas, and SMU, determined to pursue acting. Initially, he was rejected on the grounds that the theatre department did see enough evidence of growth. Not to be deterred, Jon fought for his spot and was readmitted to the acting program, graduating in 2002 with a BFA in Acting. Next came the move to Los Angeles and the pursuit of the Hollywood dream.

But 15 years later, without much to show for an acting career, Jon realized he'd only been running away from his past, and that if he ever wanted the future he dreamed of, then something had to change. 

Through hustle and hard work, Jon was able to find a coveted position as a reader for multiple casting offices around Los Angeles. And now, having been a participant in over 10,000 auditions to date, he has started teaching other actors the insights he has gleaned during his time as a reader.​

Today, Jon's larger mission is to continue to find ways to deepen the connection to his voice and to reach back out to those who feel powerless, voiceless, alone, and afraid. Having walked that path, Jon can think of no better way than to shine a light in the darkness for others to follow. Even if it's just a single person, he knows it's all well worth the effort. 

________________

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01:22:20 – On August 1st, Robert Lazzell, former principal of First Baptist School and a deacon at First Baptist Church, was sentenced to 12 years in prison after pleading guilty to Criminal Sexual Assault against former student Michael Young. It’s important to note that Lazzell is the third prominent former staff member to be charged with sexual crimes against minors since the late 90s.

Source: https://vermilioncountyfirst.com/2023/08/18/protesters-outside-first-baptist-church-call-for-accountability-in-aftermath-of-lazzell-sentencing/?fbclid=IwAR1fbriIQlW92_iFLCUJtaIWxkEIKYQ9WhMLsGftQpjIZX2uFWf1dJMae8U

02:35:20 – The Kenosha County Eye reports that in the early morning of August 10th at a Somers Walmart, an individual was reportedly observed fully naked, standing next to a black truck, masturbating. The Kenosha County Sheriff's Department made an arrest and the individual was later identified as 57-year-old Pastor Thomas Bartmer.

Thomas Bartmer, as per his website (which has now been largely wiped) has been a pastor at Lighthouse Church in Antioch, IL. His journey into the ministry began with a Lutheran upbringing, and his history is marked by his involvement in various churches, where he held leadership roles, including teaching, preaching, and working with community programs. He began Lighthouse Baptist Church on Sept 6th, 1997, and on March 27th, 1999, Lighthouse constituted as a self-sustaining church and was granted official membership in the Illinois Baptist State Association and the Southern Baptist Convention.

Source: https://kenoshacountyeye.com/2023/08/12/local-pastor-arrested-at-somers-walmart-for-masturbating-naked-in-parking-lot/

04:16:21 – News3 reports:

“Robert Stine, 60, faces two felony charges of first-degree child sex assault - sexual contact or sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 13, online court records show.

In July, Pastor Stine of Midvale Baptist Church had his license revoked for operating the church's Kid's Best child care facility in June. This action followed an inquiry by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families and the Madison Police Department.

A young girl reported that Stine assaulted her on three separate occasions.

Source: https://www.channel3000.com/news/madison-pastor-charged-with-child-sexual-assault/article_5d6fddde-3d49-11ee-a71b-f332c6de0680.html

07:14:21 – There is no shortage of unhelpful commentary and discourse surrounding clergy abuse.

This week I caught wind of two particularly terrible examples from higher-profile voices adjacent to the IFB.

One was from Shelly Hamilton – wife of the late Ron Hamilton, who created the popular Patch the Pirate children’s character.

The other was from Ken Schaap's Podcast: https://youtu.be/Pi5xIcOn4RQ

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We are back, and taking some time to reflect on almost three years of Preacher Boys - a journey that’s been equal parts rewarding and difficult.

Huge shout out to my friend and the PB Discussion Group mod, Michael McNeilly, for hopping on this one.

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Support SURVIVOR PROM: https://survivor-prom.causevox.com/

Survivor Prom is an unforgettable experience put together by Survivors of the Troubled Teen Industry.

Every year thousands of children are taken out of the safety and comfort of their homes and transported into congregate care facilities, often labeled "Troubled Teen" facilities. Survivors of these programs report horrific emotional, psychological, and physical abuse. And in addition to mourning what they experienced INSIDE the program, Survivors also mourn the experiences they were robbed of during the most formidable and impactful years of their lives.

Survivor Prom is Prom. It's a party. Thrown in honor of adults who have endured so much, that they may reclaim just one small part of their teenage dream.

Please consider a monetary gift today to the Survivors making Prom a reality.

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In this episode of the Preacher Boys podcast, host Eric talks to Lauren Eggers about her experiences growing up in the Independent Fundamental Baptist church.

While Lauren's early experiences in the IFB church were largely positive, she started to discover that the world around her was far from perfect.

In this episode, we talk about:

– attending Hyles Anderson College after the Schaap incident

– the failure of the "Jericho Program"

– the severe expectations on women in the IFB

– Lauren's traumatic experience with a man who disregarded her wishes and took advantage of her, and the difficulty of sharing that with others.

I appreciate Lauren bravely sharing her story and I know it will encourage all who listen!

________________

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Purchase a copy of She Deserves Better: https://amzn.to/40NMYZz

Armed with data from an all-new survey of over 7,000 women, the authors of The Great Sex Rescue reveal how experiences in church as teens affect women's self-esteem and relationships today. They expose common evangelical teachings that can backfire--the purity emphasis that can cause shame rather than good choices, the dating rules that can prime your daughter for abuse, and the one overarching belief that can keep her from setting healthy boundaries.

Instead, the authors advocate biblically grounded, freeing messages that are more about the dos and less about the don'ts. By reframing (and sometimes replacing) common evangelical messages to teen girls, this book will equip you to raise a daughter who can navigate the tumultuous teenage years while still clinging tightly to Jesus.

You can raise your daughter with the discernment to resist toxic teachings. Because she deserves better than a faith that keeps her small.

Sheila Wray Gregoire is the face behind BareMarriage.com, an award-winning author, and a sought-after speaker. Rebecca Gregoire Lindenbach is a psychology graduate, Sheila's daughter, and the author of Why I Didn't Rebel. Joanna Sawatsky has a master's degree in public health and is a trained microbiologist, epidemiologist, and biostatistician.

Together they are the coauthors of The Great Sex Rescue and She Deserves Better.

Purchase a copy of The Great Sex Rescue: https://amzn.to/414EmgW

________________

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