Description

In today's Courage Conversation episode, Pastor Brian Metzger talks about the desperate need for reparations in the church on behalf of abuse survivors. He talks about why it must go beyond mere thoughts and prayers and become a tangible form of repentance by taking responsibility for abuse and coverups in the church. From financial support for counseling to creating saf-ER spaces, letting broken religious structures collapse instead of upholding dangerous people and systems, and of course, the vital importance of survivors defining what reparations should look like for them.

Relevant Links: 

- Brian’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/aPastorsStory 

- Brian’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brianmpei

- Brian’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianmrnc63/ 

- https://apastorsstory.wordpress.com/ 

- Text message service: To sign up, text the word "courage" to 917-809-7311

- Courage 365: Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/courage365

🔑 Key Takeaways:

1. Reparations in the church go beyond thoughts and prayers and are seen as tangible ways to acknowledge wrongdoing and take responsibility for abuse. This can include financial support for counseling and therapy expenses, as well as providing safER spaces for reflection and healing.
2. The church needs to actively listen to survivors of abuse and let them define what reparations should look like, rather than assuming what they might want or need. It is important to take meaningful action and not simply offer empty words or prayers.
3. There is a need for pastors and church leaders to acknowledge and address issues within the church, even if it means things falling apart. This involves dismantling abusive systems, creating safer spaces, and being honest about the harm done to people. It is important to prioritize the well-being and support of survivors over protecting perpetrators or the reputation of the institution.

[00:02:22] The Church should support and listen to survivors.

[00:06:36] We avoid uncomfortable conversations due to fear.

[00:15:02] Reparations: Tangible response beyond thoughts and prayers.

[00:18:46] "Survivor voices in reparations. Practical and refreshing."

[00:24:11] Apologies for wrongs, acknowledging pain and seeking change.

[00:29:02] "Empowering daily text messages for survivors"