In this raw and necessary episode of The Backslider Diaries, T , J, and Lance sit down to unpack the difficult reality of abuse within faith communities. From personal experience and broader patterns, we break down the many faces of religious harm—childhood abuse, sexual misconduct, grooming, physical and emotional control, financial exploitation, and cultural manipulation. No sugarcoating. No excuses. Just truth. If you've ever felt gaslit, silenced, or shamed in the name of God—this conversation is for you. Because faith should never be a weapon.

⚠️ Content warning: This episode discusses sensitive topics including various forms of abuse. Listener discretion is advised.

🌐 Resources:

🎵 Opening music by The Demigs: ⁠⁠⁠Black Valley Fight⁠⁠⁠

🎵 Closing music by The Demigs: ⁠⁠⁠Monochrome Blues⁠⁠⁠

🌐 Resources:Adult Children of Alcoholics: ⁠⁠⁠https://adultchildren.org⁠⁠⁠ – for support, healing, and recovery

Freedom From Religion Foundation: ⁠⁠⁠https://ffrf.org⁠⁠⁠

Paulogia Podcast: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/paulogia⁠⁠⁠

Matt Dillahunty: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@SansDeity⁠⁠⁠

#Abuse #Deconstruction #exevangelical #RecoveringFromReligion #FaithShouldntHurt #ChurchHurt