Sons of Patriarchy Silenced No More: Abuse in the OPC, Part 5
Jan 16, 2025
Rachel Curtiss, a former member of Cities Church, shares her harrowing tale of spiritual abuse after being excommunicated for confronting her husband’s misconduct. Cait West, author of the memoir Rift, reflects on her upbringing in a patriarchal environment, exposing the damaging beliefs surrounding women's roles. Both women emphasize the trauma of their experiences, urging others to seek help and accountability. They bring to light the hidden perils of authoritarian church cultures that stifle individual agency and perpetuate harm.
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Excommunication After Pastoral Betrayal
- Rachel Curtiss recounted six years at Cities Church that ended in public excommunication after pastors sided with her husband.
- She described repeated pastoral minimization of his pornography, lies, and pressure to reconcile without repentance.
Facade Versus Practice
- Rachel observed a sharp disconnect between leaders' words and their treatment of women.
- She concluded the culture elevated men above women to an unhealthy, controlling degree.
Seeking Pastoral Help That Failed
- Rachel described years of seeking help from Joe Rigney while her husband continued in secret sin.
- She said she repeatedly reached out but pastors largely deferred to her husband and minimized her concerns.
