In a world where insurance companies are infamous for denying claims, leaving policyholders feeling jaded and robbed, a surprising parallel can be found within the church. Yes, within the very institution that is meant to be a beacon of truth and righteousness. This is not to say that every claim against the church is always founded on solid evidence, for baseless accusations can and do arise. However, there are times when the church, just like insurance companies, turns a blind eye to claims that challenge its established norms and uncomfortable truths.
We have seen the courageous rise of individuals coming forward with claims of sexual abuse by the hierarchy of the church, exposing a dark history that was once swept under the carpet. These claims, once dismissed as isolated incidents, are now being taken more seriously in the wake of the Roman Catholic Church’s own reckoning. It is a positive sign that the call to protect parishioners from harm and abuse is being heeded.
But what about the sins that are not as apparent as sexual abuse? What happens when the accusations point to acts of unknown deception, discrimination, financial mismanagement, or fraud? What if the claim challenges the very foundation of beliefs and values that church leaders hold dear? These are the uncomfortable questions that demand answers.
Consider the story of a family in upstate New York, where both parents were devout Elders in the church. These faithful individuals had remained sexually pure and were seen as the epitome of righteousness within their congregation. Their dedication to following church rules was elevated above all else, even above their relationship with God. They raised their three children to adhere strictly to these rules.
However, tragedy struck when they discovered that their teenage son had violated these sacred codes. Instead of seeking wisdom, compassion, or understanding, they opted for a path of brutal punishment. In their misguided pursuit of upholding a holy standard, they beat their own child mercilessly, which tragically led to his death. This horrifying incident revealed a profound darkness lurking beneath the surface.
Yet, when faced with such disturbing acts, the church’s response is often one of denial. Uncomfortable topics are brushed aside, and difficult conversations are avoided. Just like insurance companies denying claims in order to avoid the inconvenient and costly truth, many clerics and church leaders choose the path of turning a blind eye, avoiding confrontation at all costs.
Denying the claim, however, is not a biblical stance. As Christians, we are called to face the uncomfortable, to confront the darkness, and to protect and defend our fellow human beings at all costs. Our strength lies not in denial but in courageous acknowledgement. It is through acknowledging our collective failures that we can begin the healing process and initiate meaningful change.
It is time for the church to break free from the shackles of indifference, to rise above complacency, and to embrace the difficult task of confronting its own sins. By doing so, we can cultivate a community built on compassion, understanding, and a genuine pursuit of justice. We must remember that true repentance and redemption come not from hiding in denial but from sincerely addressing the wounds inflicted and working towards a better future.
Let this be a call to arms, a plea for the church to engage in soul-searching and self-reflection. We must no longer allow ourselves to shy away from uncomfortable truths or avoid the conversations that desperately need to be had. By embracing this transformative journey, the church can become a beacon of hope, a place where healing flourishes, and where the rejected find sanctuary.
In the end, the power to change lies within us all. Let us cast aside our fear, embrace the challenge, and walk together towards a future where the church, once burdened by denial, is reborn as a force of love, compassion, and unwavering integrity.
Dr. Aaron Lewis, August 11, 2023