Sons of Patriarchy When VICE Broke the Dam: Abuse in the CREC, Part 1
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Oct 2, 2025 In this episode, Sarah Stankorb, a religion reporter and author of 'Disobedient Women,' discusses her groundbreaking investigation into abuse within the CREC. She reveals how purity culture and rigid gender roles create environments ripe for abuse. Sarah sheds light on the experiences of survivors, the reasons they fear coming forward, and the unsettling dynamics of pastoral authority. As she delves into the broader implications of her reporting, she warns about the replication of these harmful patterns across similar communities.
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Theology That Normalizes Control
- Doug Wilson's theology normalizes extreme gender roles that can enable abuse and coercive control in homes and churches.
- Church teachings that demand submission can make victims less likely to recognize or report abuse.
Emily's Grooming And Delayed Report
- Emily's case shows how school staff and church leaders mishandled alleged grooming and delayed reporting to police for years.
- She described ongoing abuse and emotional harm while leaders treated the situation as minor or disputable.
When Pastors Play Therapist
- Pastors acting as informal therapists and counselors create dangerous power dynamics without proper training or boundaries.
- Handling abuse in-house often leads to cover-ups and denies victims professional care and justice.
