In this episode of DisAllusioned Podcast, host Ari Sherwood speaks with Geoff Etherton, a former youth pastor in the Church of England, about his experiences in the church and the creation of Church Abuse Survivor's Day. Geoff was a pioneer in the church, and with creative freedom, he was able to establish a coffee shop in the church as a means for meaningful engagement with the public, regardless of religious beliefs. With a sudden change in leadership, he was quickly thrown into coercive dynamics. He discusses the challenges faced within church leadership, the failure to address abuse cases, and the church's perspectives and criticisms of mental health, detailing his experiences being pushed out of ministry for having depression. Geoff shares his personal journey of deconstruction and the significance of community support for those who have experienced church abuse. This led Geoff to start Church Abuse Survivor's Day, in order to give recognition, validation, and solidarity to those who have survived religious abuse. Show your own solidarity and support for fellow survivors by lighting a candle on March 20th at 7:00 pm.

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