Disclaimer

Clergy (also known as pastoral) sexual abuse and misconduct, including spiritual abuse, is wrong. It is the pastor’s (or any other person in the role of spiritual authority) responsibility to maintain appropriate boundaries. This web site, and all related programs of The Hope of Survivors, is for those who desire to receive true healing—spiritual, emotional and physical—from the devastation of clergy sexual abuse. We believe true healing comes from God alone, through the power of His Word and the Holy Spirit.

The information contained in this web site is not a substitute for State-licensed psychological, psychiatric or medical advice, if needed. It is for informational and educational purposes only. While The Hope of Survivors may employ State-licensed or Board Certified professionals at times, either as employees or volunteers of the organization, we also encourage you to seek help from a professional, licensed counselor in your area as soon as possible, if you feel it is necessary. The Hope of Survivors’ employees and volunteers, though they may be certified or licensed, do not serve as licensed or certified professionals or caregivers in this capacity.

This web site is not an exhaustive study or research on clergy sexual abuse, rather, it is a resource designed to provide quick answers to those who are in turmoil and pain and need immediate help. It is to support, educate and encourage those who are victims of clergy sexual abuse. We will gladly assist you in whatever capacity we can—by listening, sharing, providing Biblical support or helping you to find a professional counselor near you or other resources. Our main concern is to help you remove yourself from the dangerous situation you are in and to restore your faith, hope and trust in God.

Books and links to other web sites are provided for informational purposes only and are not endorsed by us. We do not monitor linked web sites, which are continually changing.

We do not purport to be licensed experts in any field of legal, social or human Services. We are lay persons who have lived through, and survived, clergy sexual abuse, and have furthered our own education, which may include having obtained certifications or licenses. For these reasons, we provide support based on Biblical principles, and share our personal opinions and experiences. The Hope of Survivors cannot be held responsible for the opinions or comments of its members and/or the survivors who share their stories with us.

The Hope of Survivors makes no warranties, express or implied, and specifically disclaims any warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Additionally, The Hope of Survivors accepts no liability for any direct, consequential, or other damages resulting from any negligence of The Hope of Survivors. Use of this site (and all related programs and services of The Hope of Survivors) constitutes your understanding and acceptance of these provisions.<

Please note: The Hope of Survivors is not a crisis hotline or agency. If this is a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 or your local police. If you are considering suicide, please call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433).