Sons of Patriarchy Rachael Denhollander on the LIES Churches Believe About Abuse
Nov 29, 2025
Rachael Denhollander, an attorney and abuse survivor, shares her expertise on how churches handle abuse allegations. She discusses the importance of trauma-informed responses and the misuse of biblical standards like the 'two or three witnesses' argument. Rachael emphasizes the need for independent investigations and outlines the limits of pastoral confidentiality. With a focus on empowering survivors, she debunks misconceptions about reporting and highlights the significance of ethical media representation.
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Use Independent, Trauma-Informed Investigators
- Report allegations promptly and use trained, independent assessors to intake and weigh evidence.
- Retain trauma-informed investigators to protect survivors and preserve the chain of evidence.
Micro‑Corroboration From Church Witnesses
- Rachael describes a case where micro‑corroboration came from a congregant who saw the accused in a bathroom with a girl.
- A third person later reported a friend had seen the same encounter, strengthening the victim's claim.
Limits Of Mandatory Reporting
- Mandatory reporting requires reasonable suspicion, not a definitive conclusion of abuse.
- Criminal convictions are rare, so churches must act pastorally and practically even when law enforcement is slow.