Mary DeMuth, advocate for the sexually abused, has written a clarion call to the church. You can’t ignore her purpose or passion in alerting the Christian community that it’s time to WAKE UP. She means it. This book is a cumulative work with lots of citations. The girl did her homework. But it’s also personal. DeMuth’s own heart-breaking story chronicles the trauma and devastation of being sexual abused. Past abuse follows the survivor wherever they go. Sexual abuse is monstrous. DeMuth skillfully peels back the layers to expose the truth about assault, predators, victims, PTSD, sexual abuse in the church–historically and institutionally. She painstakingly covers all the bases so we aren’t left in the dark, nor are we uncertain as to where this is heading. The church is taken to task by DeMuth, and rightly so. She challenges the system that has long protected the abuser (perpetrator) rather than the abused (victim). You don’t believe this? Google it. Many examples exist of institutional abuse on the Evangelical watch, which includes missionary settings, Christian schools and universities, youth groups, and churches. I used to be in denial–I didn’t want to believe this could be true–but it is true, and it is epidemic. DeMuth verifies how the survivors of abuse are often further traumatized by those who simply do not believe them or fail to address the issue head-on. This allows the perpetrator to move on to their next victim, as they often do. There are also the coverups–which reek of dishonesty, deceit, and greed (or fear). For those who think this only happens in other places and not in their neighborhood, think again. They are sadly mistaken. We as Christian people cannot live in denial any longer. The truth is at our doorstep. It is of greatest urgency that we call a spade, a spade. With grave intention, we must believe and protect the hurting, vulnerable, and wounded among us. We’re not in Kansas anymore. One caution is in order. This book may trigger you if you have sexual abuse in your present or past. You might want to have someone who has spiritual depth of insight walk through this journey with you.

WHAT A STORY! One of the most interesting books I’ve read, particularly because of the subject matter. This is a hot topic that doesn’t get much press or validation. Butterfield’s journey to faith is compelling. A sincere pastor, without judgment or condemnation, speaks life to this woman on the opposite side of the spectrum who has little use for Christianity. He becomes salt and light by authentically engaging in dialogue with this educated, active, professor, Women’s Studies Program Chair, and feminist social activist. Butterfield’s story, a unique one at that, unfolds her remarkable spiritual awakening. Her life goes from that of a feminist community leader and proactive lesbian to Christian convert to Christian marriage to new role as pastor’s wife, college youth leader, and motherhood. Her internal strength and clarity of thought become assets as she enters the fray, a fascinating road upon which she travels to discover truth for herself. I applaud her courage in speaking her faith story to those willing to listen.  Her exit from the gay community where she felt safe and wanted is difficult. Her professional area of study is at cross-purposes with her fledgling faith. Butterfield’s path to faith is costly, unsettling, mind boggling, and traumatic. I think she would be quick to say that it’s been worth it. Her life has purpose and meaning that is redemptive and life-giving. Truly, God works in mysterious ways.