Sometimes it happens

[Hope 98]

Hi I wanted to bring this new post out from an old thread.

Hmm. Vindication... the only vindication I've seen in the past 6 months since leaving the cult is that others I know and love have also either left, or are about to leave too. Eventually, we hope and pray that attendence there will become nonexistent and that they will no longer pastor in this area. I use that term all too loosely.

I'm sure it will take years before full vindication comes, if ever.
~Outcast

It took at least a couple of years, but I had the opportunity to watch the church I left collapse. It's good that it did, but it was so sad for the people as they had to leave.

It was in some way...I don't know...satisfying...I suppose. I think everyone hoped for something better. I think it would have been helpful to see the leadership of this church recognize their responsibility for its destruction. I don't think they have seen that yet.

[outcast]

I know what you mean, Hope, about it being somewhat satisfying. It has been so far as we've seen people other than us leave. Also, as my closest friend has had her eyes open to who/what these people who claim to be her pastors really are inside. She knew firsthand of my loyalty/dedication to them as the man and woman of God. She saw firsthand the way I was treated, just b/c I wanted to resign my position as music minister. She too has experienced the same types of verbal sexual innuendo from the pastor.

I do not take satisfaction in her pain whatsoever. Rather, that I know she knows the truth and that she will leave soon enough. I am glad you had the opportunity to see your old church collapse. It is sad in a way, but a relief at the same time. As my husband says, it is not a real church anyway b/c it's focus is definitely not on Christ and propagating His kingdom. I know my old church only has 20-30 people left in it. It used to be 300-500 strong years ago. I cannot get my hopes up just yet, though b/c I have seen it get as small as 10-15 and still stay in operation. I hope everyone's eyes open. And soon.