Challenging Times for Old Apostolic Lutheran Church Amid Child Sex Abuse Allegations

Allegations Against Old Apostolic Lutheran Church

In various congregations across the United States, the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church (OALC) faces serious allegations of child sex abuse. Reports indicate that some church leaders have not reported these allegations to the police. This longstanding issue affects multiple generations within families, highlighting the urgency for reform.

A Culture of Silence and Forgiveness

The OALC has a doctrine emphasizing forgiveness, teaching that once a perpetrator is forgiven, the topic must remain unspoken. This belief can place undue burden on victims, shifting focus from offenders to those not willing to forget the wrongdoing. As a result, many abuse survivors say they must suffer in silence or risk spiritual condemnation.

Instances of Abuse and Inaction

Examples from states like Wyoming, Minnesota, and Washington reveal disturbing patterns. In Wyoming, a man was accused of sexually abusing minors during church services. Despite the preacher knowing, the case was never reported to authorities. Instead, the preacher advised the man to seek therapy.

In Minnesota, a father admitted to abusing his children. Although he belonged to the church, pastors encouraged victims to confront him for forgiveness. In Washington, abuse was reportedly known but not taken to the police, leaving members to continue harmful actions without consequence.

Cross-Generational Impact

Family victims speak to enduring cycles of abuse, implicating parents, children, and grandchildren. In one example, an abuse victim found that similar harm had befallen her daughter and later her granddaughter. This chain of events underscores the damaging legacy within families, exacerbated by the church’s teachings.

Legal Actions and Church Responses

Authorities like Crook County Attorney DaNece Day argue that stopping these cycles is challenging because church members often move between dispersed congregations. In some cases, legal action has been initiated against individuals like Clint Massie, highlighting a growing number of criminal cases and legal scrutiny. Church representatives maintain that these incidents are isolated and not reflective of a broader pattern, asserting their doctrine aims for forgiveness without hindering legal repercussions.

Efforts Toward Change

Victims and their advocates are pushing for change, especially as church elders from Sweden plan to visit the U.S. congregations. These elders hold no formal authority, yet their influence might inspire scrutiny and reform. Church representatives in the U.S. acknowledge the necessity of correctly applying the doctrine and engaging external resources for guidance. However, those affected argue that church officials should prioritize contacting authorities first and maintaining transparency about abuse concerns.

Looking Forward

During coming visits by Swedish elders, some aim to address the church’s response to preventing authorities’ involvement. Members hoping for doctrinal change stress the importance of immediate action to protect vulnerable individuals.