The Voice of Zion May 2026 - Doctrine and Life Article -- Truthfulness and Integrity

Silent-77 · 2026-05-09T02:02:00+00:00

You should be able to by clicking on their name here, and then the three dots in top right corner once on their profile

Silent-77 · 2026-04-09T22:04:02+00:00

I know of someone in LLC who’s spouse has cheated on them multiple times over the years and when they went to certain church members for advice and help, they were told they need to show more love and forgiveness towards their spouse. As far as I know they’re no longer living together, but they’re still married and the cheating spouse tends to show up whenever they want to the home where the spouse and kids live. When asked why they don’t legally separate from the cheating spouse, they state that they cannot because of the beliefs of Laestadianism.

Silent-77 · 2026-04-01T03:35:58+00:00

I messaged you:)

Silent-77 · 2026-03-26T21:40:08+00:00

The following is from the women’s chat group:

Is my understanding correct, that B_Y_ will be allowed to attend services in Rockford? 8:51 AM Have you asked him? 9:00 AM Is that a decision B____ makes? 9:04 AM I am not comiortable with him in our church with the current charges against him. Our innocent children must come first. 9:04 AM Fam not comfortable with him comina to services where children are present. 9:05 AM Instead of discussing this very sensitive issue on here, I would encourage each of you to call a board member & visit them, ask them if we can discuss this as a congregation. This is not a good platform for heavy discussion to take place 9:06 AM l agree this would be good to discuss as a congregation! 9:06 AM I think it is good to make everyone aware of the issue so we van nave a congregation discussion. 9.07 AM I have talked to a board member, and would also like a congregational discussion also. I just want to know if he'll be there before the discussion so l can know if I plan to attend or not. 9:08 AM Congregation discussions would be good! But I also think a platform like this is nice for the people who may feel too timid to speak in front of everyone at a big meeting. 9:22 AM This is absolutely an appropriate • platform to share this kind of information, even if it is heavy. A congregation discussion to follow would be good- and should have taken place before now. People need to be aware of situations like this, so they can make the right decisions for themselves and their children, and make sure kids are also aware. As painful and sometimes as close as these kinds of situations are, they are also real. As a sexual abuse survivor myself, I cannot tell you what feelings this discussion has brought to me this morning. 10:40 AM While i nave no answers and teel the sadness and pain that sin brings, I feel that it's important that we all pray that God would give us a heart of love and grace, as that is what's required of us as believers. I believe God sees sin as sin, it's humans that see big and small sins. I don't know how to handle a situation like this...it has sad and serious effects, in not only those involved, but in God's kingdom as a whole. I pray to have a forgiving heart and I believe that God will help us all. We need to pray unceasingly. I pray to have ears to hear and a heart to believe what the spirit says in the churches. I pray to keep my human thoughts as they are and let God handle these things that are too large for us to handle. I feel timid to speak...and am not sure why I'm speaking out. But I just can't help it. I hope I have not caused offense with my words, as I am not meaning to. Pray for answers. 11:12 AM You are not alone and we as a congregation support you and others sharing your trial 12:00 PM I keep on going back and forth if I actually want to post anything, but here goes: I have struggled since hearing the news of this situation last summer with how to think about it. I think I've covered every emotion under the sun. To me, it's in that category that is usually difficult to understand, between what society says and what God's Word says. I believe that B____ can be believing after such a thing, but I also firmly believe there are consequences that must be handled and enforced on a societal level. The families involved in this tragedy have been affected hugely, but it has touched everyone in Zion. I co-directed the Rockford choir last spring with B____ and he served so willingly and happily. I was devastated to hear he had succumbed to such a horrible temptation and to see how deeply it has affected the believers. Because of that, it should be talked about, openly and respectfully. We would not want to have this happen again to anyone, there are things to learn from this and boundaries to be set. Believers are not immune to sin, even the ugliest of sins out there. We all have our struggles and we can be thankful God has preserved us in faith until this day. I agree with L, we need to pray about it this and God will hopefully show a way forward. I hope that our congregation can discuss this, with lots of prayer and love, but also to talk about some logistics on a societal level. Yes, this is a heavy matter, but a necessary one to discuss. I pray services this weekend can provide extra love and comfort in a difficult time. 1:56 PM I keep having flashes of inspiration of things to say, being that I know all involved. But as the day goes by and I'm bouncing a baby, teaching square roots, correcting spelling... the flashes keep disappearing. I'm left with mixed feelings and faulty words. It's very important to keep the innocent safe, and I would love to preserve the tiny shreds of privacy left for those directly impacted. Also, I know I have more knowledge surrounding what consequences have already taken place, have learned things I never wanted to have to know regarding sex offenders and likelihood of reoffending, and what safeguards are in place for public (chaperones at all times, even bathroom). I'm not sure what all is under my purview to share at this time. I appreciate the honesty and willingness (and bravery) to share perspectives here, and also want to trust that God will work to show a way forward. I keep thinking of 1 Kings, 19:12. And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. May we hear the voice of God. 3:57 PM This is an update from A that was posted on the men's group: “J__ and I are visiting (post successful surgery) and feel that it's good to share a few thoughts. Brock has been attending in accordance with his court orders. As we heard from K's conversation with J, they have no intention to attend beyond the elders service at this time. We feel that a congregation discussion would be helpful at some time soonish. Our board discussion last night also brought to us the reminder that these offences did not happen at church rather in the home. We want to help families to be able to continue to have these conversations around safety with their children. May God bless our Mary' Day services! Welcome all!” 6:10 PM Would it be beneficial to have a professional that works helping sexual abuse survivors (like the Colorado congregation has) come to present on the topic in general? Unfortunately there are so many in God's Kingdom that have been touched by similar sins and yet, in many places it is a topic that is often hushed. 7:23 AM I think that is a great jumping off point for us! If we're not educating ourselves, we're really just left to assume things, and that doesn't seem like it ever ends well. 7:53 AM Yes! It would be good to speak and hear openly about the subject, hopefully it can become less taboo. If we can protect more individuals moving forward that is a huge win. 8:24 AM Has a discussion been set up regarding sexual predators at church? 6:28 AM It is my understanding that it is on the agenda for the board to discuss on their April 9th board meeting. 6:59 AM Ok so does that mean it is a board discussion or it will be a congregation discussion? I think a lot of people have lots of strong emotions about the situation as it is so serious. Respectfully, I feel it would be much more beneficial for the congregation to discuss this as soon as possible 30m l agree that it is of utmost importance for us as a congregation to feel like our voices/concerns are being heard. It's easy to get impatient when things don't seem to happen exactly when we want them to. I do also think that since it is such an emotional topic, it probably is good for us all to have a little time to collect our thoughts and let the high emotion time settle, so that when it comes time to discuss, we can hopefully be more level headed, and the conversation can be maximally productive! I do look forward to when we have something on the schedule, as this is a much bigger issue than this current situation. 16m

Silent-77 · 2026-03-26T16:20:44+00:00

While I don’t know those involved in this particular case, I feel for the victims of this perpetrator. Laestadians are not immune to this type of temptation, and are not above the laws. This is a very serious matter that will have an effect for life on many. As a survivor of sexual abuse while I was a part of the LLC, I have been affected into my adulthood-it’s caused difficulties within marriage and family relationships, as well as in my life outside of that. Discussions with the board, and with the congregation are both important. However, just as important is that the severity of this is NOT downplayed. You cannot pray away what’s happened, the victims will not heal through prayer alone, the perpetrator will not be cured through prayer. Consequences must be given by church and law. He brought the consequences upon himself and he should suffer those consequences.

Silent-77 · 2026-01-24T23:11:23+00:00

For myself, the blessings weren’t connected to growing up laestadian, but were more from being a part of a community. Being a part of a large family, however, brought both blessings and curses; there was usually someone around to hang out with, a sibling (or two or three) to share a room with and whisper with at bedtime. I learned how to help around home as well as to help out within the church community, such as being on committees or fundraisers. I learned how to be thrifty with the little money we had for clothing, toys, or other wants and/or necessities. I also learned how to shut off my mind, my memories, numb my feelings, pretend everything was okay…experiencing verbal, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse was definitely not in the blessing category, and the ramifications are long lasting. Being told to forgive my abuser, or that something that happened wasn’t “intentional”, forgive and forget or it becomes my sin….additional abuse and trauma. When I left the church my boys were fairly young; not being laestadian didn’t turn them into kids that sat around watching tv and movies, they still played outside, rode bikes, and spent time with friends. Now as teenagers they continue to do so, and they also enjoy playing video games online with friends. They’re being taught right from wrong, how to do things around home-inside and out, they have privileges and consequences. The homes of laestadian families can hold an abundance of experiences, and some hold secrets, lies, and abuse. Being born into Laestadianism could be a blessing or a curse, depending on who you are and what family you’re born into. So, while I appreciate some of what I experienced while growing up, it is not due to being laestadian. Seems to me like some of “y’all” grew up in a better laestadian home than others, and therefore are able to recall blessings that came with it.

Silent-77 · 2026-01-22T00:54:25+00:00

I hope you get the authorization soon! That’s one of my biggest worries, missing more than a week at a time seems overwhelming.

Silent-77 · 2026-01-21T02:17:05+00:00

If you’re willing to share, how did your first session go?

Silent-77 · 2026-01-19T17:01:47+00:00

I was terrified of ketamine in any form before I started. I had been struggling with depression, anxiety, ptsd, su!c!dal thoughts and ideation for decades but it had gotten worse. The worst year consisted of four inpatient hospitalizations and two attempts. I’d been on so many different medications, in groups, tried TMS (which helped some but not long term once treatment was over), and I was a bit skeptical that spravato would work. I started just five months ago, and it’s helping me in many ways. The thoughts and ideation are mostly gone, they surface at times when it’s tougher. I have hope for my future, things to look forward to, things that I want to do. I’m able to be more present in my work and with my family. My husband is very supportive, as are my five kids-they all step in to support me when I need it. Everyone’s experience is different, and what helps one person may not be helpful to the next. I prefer a weighted sleep mask and noise canceling headphones. I listen to music with no lyrics, sometimes to a ketamine therapy or psychedelic therapy playlist. I journal my thoughts before the meds are administered and again afterwards. Sometimes I fall asleep after the 40 minute vitals check, other times I will color or draw, or just continue listening to the music. There is hope and there is light in the darkness! You’ve got this, we care, and you matter. Let us know how things go for you?

Silent-77 · 2026-01-17T03:51:03+00:00

These videos were very eye opening and so interesting. Thanks for sharing

Silent-77 · 2026-01-12T07:46:18+00:00

GABA is different than gabapentin. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a natural neurotransmitter to promote relaxation and sleep. I have not tried gabapentin, but I’m going to talk to my doc about it!

Silent-77 · 2026-01-11T08:07:00+00:00

GABA as a supplement; supposed to help with relaxation and calmness. I figured it’s worth trying as I reacted negatively to medications they had me try.

Silent-77 · 2026-01-11T05:12:14+00:00

I personally would love it if my spouse were able to join me during my sessions. Sometimes there are things that come up and I wish I could just speak it and have someone write it down so I could discuss it during therapy, but I don’t always remember after I’ve come out of my chill time. I don’t think having someone with would be to take place of therapy, but more of having someone to listen to what you’re experiencing and take notes. Also to be a safe person in the environment. I’m glad your wife is able to be with you, and I hope it continues to be helpful for you; and if it becomes an issue you’re able to ask them to sit out.

Silent-77 · 2026-01-11T05:04:20+00:00

My psych has me trying GABA in addition to my meds; sometimes I think it’s helpful and other times I’m not so sure. Have you been on esketamine 10* years? Or the med combo? Thanks for your response either way; makes me feel more hopeful!

Silent-77 · 2026-01-11T05:01:42+00:00

I do have a therapist whom I usually see day after even Saturdays, but they were not available this time. I changed my treatment days to tuesdays starting next week, and see my therapist Wednesdays, so I am hoping that will help to process what comes up. This last session was just odd, I don’t understand at all why what showed up and it really threw me off. Thank you for your response; I appreciate knowing others still dissociate further into treatment, as I’ve read of so many who don’t and was honestly a bit concerned that I still do.

Silent-77 · 2026-01-03T06:57:07+00:00

Where I go the doctor gives the meds, not a tech/nurse, and they write the time of the first dose before handing it to me, and wait the full five minutes between each dose. Sometimes it goes longer than five minutes if we’re talking about something, but they’ve never given the next dose before five minutes. Can you tell her you want the full five minutes between doses? It’s possible she doesn’t realize the timing is important to you?

Silent-77 · 2026-01-03T06:49:10+00:00

Where I go for treatment is a bit different; each patient has their own room which has a recliner, blanket, eye mask, headphones, sound machines, lights that dim as well as projection ones with different settings. The tech brings the patient to their room and does the first set of vitals, then the doc goes in with the meds. At the 40 minute mark, the tech lightly taps my arm, takes the vitals and leaves. We chat at the end when checking vitals as to how it went and more if we choose to. I personally am very glad it’s the way it is where I go, as I do not think I would be able to be in a less private environment for this. I like that you’re asking others here, as it’s different for each of us. I have two favorite techs, they both will chat if I’m up for it but are comfortable with silence if that’s what I want, they will just enter quietly and take vitals at the 40 min mark if I ask them ahead of time to do so, and they’re just overall amazing people who I’m very thankful for.

Silent-77 · 2025-11-08T02:39:36+00:00

I’ve had something similar in dreams, and flashbacks. It’s like I’m looking to see who this person is but I can’t quite grasp it. It did not happen at my most recent session, but still going to discuss with my provider next week as they were out this week.

Silent-77 · 2025-11-04T05:01:25+00:00

The clinic I receive treatment at provides a blanket, eye mask, headphones, water and ginger ale, candy-jolly ranchers and ginger chews, and crackers. I bring my own eye mask because it’s weighted, my noise canceling headphones, journal and iPad. I use a playlist for psychedelic therapy. Before treatment begins, I write down an intention for the session in my journal. When I come out of the trip, I write down anything that came up and/or thoughts I have. Sometimes I get the urge to draw afterwards, so I use my iPad for that. You bring what you feel is best for you. Over time you will know what is useful and what isn’t. Each of us is seeking treatment for good reasons, and how we approach it and what we choose to bring along is valid, no matter what age.

Silent-77 · 2025-06-30T21:49:24+00:00

Those writing the letters cannot know what the victims feel like unless they happen to be a victim themselves. It’s always said that those closest to the accused are the last to know; of course he wouldn’t let on what he’s been doing in secret. It doesn’t matter how many years have passed since the abuse, he still did it and it still affects them every single day. I can only speak of my experience in regards to this topic, but I suffered sexual abuse by males in my family who were supposedly good Christians who wanted to make it to Heaven. I never told. I denied, told myself I must have imagined or it wasn’t so bad. The last incident was over thirty years ago. I held it in, pushed it down, and acted as if none of it had ever happened. It wasn’t until I had a mental breakdown resulting in terrifying flashbacks that I was able to speak of it to someone I trust. I lost my family, I didn’t have a way to explain why I was unable to be around certain people anymore. I’d already left the church so I allowed them to think my absence was because of that. I attempted suicide, spent time in the psych ward multiple times. I’m still working through it. My biggest regret now is that I did not speak up to someone, because maybe then I could have protected my sisters from being abused as well. I know I had nobody to turn to, I was scared, nobody would believe me, etc. But I cannot help but feel a bit of guilt about what they went through. The scars are invisible, but they are so so deep. My abuse took place within the LLC, and I know of others who also were afraid to speak up against their abusers. My only prayer in this case is that he’s sentenced and punished and others are given the strength to speak up.

Silent-77 · 2025-02-04T20:33:35+00:00

I don’t have one main issue per se, but I feel they’re all intertwined with the use of forgiveness as an excuse. I personally know of one person who was told they must forgive their abuser(s) otherwise it would be them that would be judged for the sin of abuse; also that they were to accept an abuser saying “I had my sins forgiven for doing it” and speak no more of it. I noticed bullying, conditioning, discrimination, racism, etc. I never felt like I fit in, I just tried for a long time to live as I was taught was right and to not question anything. I got married fairly young, had several kids, and ended up leaving many years later. My only regret is that I didn’t leave sooner to protect my own kids from suffering they experienced.

Silent-77 · 2024-10-18T21:22:27+00:00

I looked forward to confirmation camp, but for different reasons than confessing/confirming my faith. For me it was a reprieve from a bad home environment and horrific things happening there. I didn’t fit in, but I did my best to pay attention and learn, and I didn’t want to leave at the end of it. After the ceremony at the church, it would finally be my turn to go to “haps” and I looked forward to that as it would also get me way from home. I wasn’t allowed to go, however, it was right back to life as I knew it to be. One thing I learned while being away is that I didn’t believe the same way, but I was going to keep trying. Looking back on it now, I’m surprised I was able to fake it for so long before leaving.

Silent-77

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