What a journey this has been. Yesterday, Acts29 removed Mark Driscoll and Mars Hill from their network of churches (which he co-founded). The response from Mars Hill was heartbreaking, to be honest. It is the same thing they did almost three years ago with A Call to Reconciliation (but worse).
It has become clear to me that Mark will not resign, and he plans to go down with his ship. I have become thoroughly convinced that Mars Hill Church has become a cult. In light of that, it is time for me to move on. I have given Mark Driscoll and Mars Hill enough of my time, talent and treasures.
I AM truly encouraged by the number of people who have found the courage to use their voices and speak out against Mark and the abuses at Mars Hill. In the beginning, the voices were few, and I felt compelled to keep being a voice crying in the wilderness. Today there are a symphony of voices calling for change, accountability, and resignation. I fully trust that those who have picked up the torch will fight the good fight and finish the race.
I am ready to turn the page and begin a new job, and focus on things that I have power over. I am leaving the blog up as a historical record and resource for those who will come out in the future. I am extremely grateful for the friendships I have made through all of this.
If You Wish to Stay Current on Mark Driscoll & Mars Hill:
This group will be given to an admin who will keep the integrity of the group and the spirit in which it was created.
If A Friend or Loved One is in a Cult/Abusive Church:
Elizabeth Esther provides some very helpful information when trying to talk with someone who is currently in an abusive church or cult. She also provides guidance on how you can help them when they are ready to leave.
How to Talk to Someone Living Inside an Abusive Church or Cult Group
How to Help Someone Inside a Cult or Abusive Church (Hint: Inverventions Don't Work)
If You Are Thinking of Leaving or Have Already Left:
How to Leave and Recover
Post Cult (Abusive Church) Trauma Syndrome
Counseling:
Northwest Family Life
Dr. Sarah Groen-Colyn Psychologist , PhD
Denny Gunderson, MA, LMHC
Jamelyn Keatts, MA, LMHC
Websites:
Church Exiters
PureProvender
Recovery from Spiritual Abuse Website (Jeff VanVonderen)
Books:
Breaking the Bondage of Legalism by Neil T. Anderson & Rich Miller & Paul Travis
Churches that Abuse by Ronald M. Enroth
Recovering from Churches that Abuse by Ronald M. Enroth
Toxic Faith: Experiencing Healing From Painful Spiritual Abuse by Stephen Arterburn and Jack Felton
Faith That Hurts, Faith That Heals: Understanding the Fine Line Between Healthy Faith and Spiritual Abuse by Stephen Arterburn, Jack Felton
Twisted Scriptures: A Path to Freedom From Abusive Churches by Mary Alice Chrnalogar
The Drift into Deception: The Eight Characteristics of Abusive Christianity by Agnes C. Lawless, John W. Lawless
Growing Up Fundamentalist: Journeys in Legalism and Grace by Stefan Ultsein
Tired of Trying to Measure Up by Jeff VanVonderen
Exposing Spiritual Abuse by Mike Fehlauer
I Can't Hear God Anymore: Life in a Dallas Cult by Wendy J. Duncan
The Heresy of Mind Control: Recognizing Con Artists in Leadership by Stephen Martin
