Child Sexual Abuse in Baptist Churches
Child sexual abuse is a non-denominational problem. While the Catholic Church scandals have been well-publicized, Baptist churches also receive large numbers of reports of children being sexually abused by pastors and other church officials. Baptist churches, like many other denominations, have had a tendency to support and protect abusers in their congregations even though this puts more children at risk.
At the law firm of Hartley Hampton, P.C., in Houston, Texas, we represent the victims of Baptist sexual abuse and help survivors confront their abusers and organizations that foster the abuse. We know how difficult it can be to come forward against a minister or other leader of a religious order, and we will support you throughout the entire legal process. By speaking out against abuse, you can obtain financial compensation for your physical and emotional injuries and you can help prevent future incidents of abuse from taking place.
Contact attorney Hartley Hampton to learn more about our advocacy for victims of Baptist minister sexual abuse and your options for recovery.
Keeping Abuse Confidential Within Baptist Churches
One of the reasons child sexual abuse occurs within Baptist churches is that allegations of abuse are not frequently reported and pedophile ministers are allowed to stay in positions where they work with children. The Baptist General Convention of Texas keeps a confidential file of people within its congregation who are alleged to be child sexual abuse offenders.
Allegations of abuse are kept secret for many reasons. Leaders naturally want to protect the reputation of their church and they fear negative publicity. Some ministers believe that prayer, counseling and other therapies can "cure" pedophiles and that internal punishments are adequate. Unfortunately, this strategy provides a protective environment for abusers to commit further acts of abuse and molestation. When Baptist churches fail to adequately protect their members, they may be held liable for any injuries suffered due to abuse.
For an expose of the abuse problem in the Baptist church, see This Little Light: Beyond a Baptist Preacher Predator and His Gang, by Christa Brown.
Let Us Help You Find Justice
If you have been abused by a Baptist minister or other church official, contact us at Hartley Hampton, P.C. Hartley Hampton is a dedicated, experienced lawyer. He will help answer your questions and find justice and compensation for injuries you have suffered as a result of abuse. Call our Houston, Texas, office toll free to schedule a free initial consultation at 866-635-0811.
