TW: VIewer discretion advised. Discussion of abuse in a religious environment.
Welcome, friends! We're excited to discuss this compelling podcast where host @loriadams-brown interviews clergy sexual abuse survivor Christa Brown. Christa shares vulnerably to help protect others, offering insight into spiritual betrayal's impacts. Christa recounts clergy abuse and institutional coverups within America's largest Protestant denomination. Her story illustrates how predators manipulate trust, truth, and power dynamics, leaving trauma and self-blame in their wake. Christa helps us understand survivors' realities – that healing revelation often comes decades later. Yet when the veil lifts, fierce advocacy can emerge from personal ashes. Christa models determined, thoughtful reform efforts on behalf of the vulnerable. In her newly released book, Baptistland, we read a stark account, and we're called to confront hard spiritual and social justice issues. Doing so brings possibility for greater safety, accountability, and care. I welcome your perspectives on these timely, sensitive topics. What stood out from Christa's experience? How might we make a positive difference? Please share your reactions.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Hear powerful clergy sexual abuse survivor stories that inspire resilience and healing.
Discover the long-term effects of spiritual abuse in adulthood and how to navigate its impact.
Uncover the role of the Southern Baptist Convention in abuse cover-ups and the importance of holding institutions accountable.
Learn about effective advocacy strategies for child abuse survivors and how to make a meaningful difference.
Explore the impact of living abroad on worldview and personal growth.
Our special guest is Christa Brown.
Christa Brown, a retired attorney, is an influential figure in advocating for child abuse survivors. Her latest book, "Baptistland," provides a compelling firsthand account of abuse, betrayal, and transformation within the context of clergy sexual abuse in the Southern Baptist Convention. Recognized as one of the top ten religion newsmakers of 2022, Brown's extensive work over two decades has been pivotal in uncovering clergy sex abuse and cover-ups within the denomination. Through her unwavering dedication, she has been a driving force in demanding reforms to safeguard future generations. Her expertise and personal experiences make her a highly credible voice in shedding light on the impact of spiritual abuse and the urgent need for collective action in addressing such critical issues.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:03:36 - Living Abroad and Changing Worldview
00:07:07 - Family Dynamics and Abuse
00:16:43 - Delay in Reckoning with Abuse
00:17:54 - The Power of Sharing Stories
00:19:25 - Southern Baptist Convention's Amicus Brief
00:21:44 - Lack of Accountability
00:24:48 - Words vs. Actions
00:33:26 - Call to Action
00:34:57 - Importance of Checks and Balances
00:35:37 - Continuing the Call to Action
00:36:05 - Sitting in Darkness
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Visit www.betterhelp.com/difference to get 10% off your first month of therapy with Betterhelp. This is a great resource for anyone who has experienced trauma or is looking for support in navigating difficult situations.
If you know someone who is a part of the Southern Baptist Convention or will be a delegate at the upcoming convention, consider bringing up the need for institutional denouncement of the amicus brief filed by the SBC. This is an important step in holding leaders accountable and ensuring checks and balances within the organization.
Reach out to Lori Adams-Brown on social media or join the Difference Maker community at www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference to engage in deeper conversations about the topics discussed in the podcast. This is a great way to connect with others and continue the dialogue around important issues.
Consider sharing the podcast episode with friends, family, or colleagues who may benefit from hearing Christa Brown's story and the important discussions around abuse, advocacy, and institutional accountability. Spreading awareness can lead to meaningful conversations and
Connect with us here:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/aworldofdifference/
https://www.twitter.com/@awodpod
https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com
https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/
