News

WINGS Note: This is a historic document so some links to resources may be out of date.

PURPOSE:

This CSA Code of Conduct has been developed by WINGS with the support of workers and friends of the fellowship.

The implementation and ongoing use of the principles, guidelines and resources will:

• Reduce the potential for child sexual abuse (CSA);
• Establish accepted processes for use in the instance of child sexual abuse allegations;
• Reduce the potential for false CSA allegations against workers; and
• Promote cooperative relationships with and attitudes toward law enforcement agencies, including the criminal justice and child protection systems.

1.     CSA DEFINITION:

An adult or older adolescent using a child or young adolescent for overt or covert sexual gratification, even without contact, including by

• asking or pressuring or inciting a child to engage in sexual activities (regardless of the outcome);
• sexual touching or fondling (even if fully clothed);
• engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child;
• causing a child to watch a sexual act;
• exposure of genitals to a child;
• viewing a child’s genitalia or breasts without contact;
• inappropriate sexual conversation ;
• arranging or facilitating commission of a child sex offence;
• meeting a child following sexual grooming etc;
• using a child to produce child pornography.

Notes:

1. A child cannot consent to any sexual activity with an adult or older adolescent, so it is not the victim’s fault, they did not cause it, and they are not to blame in any way, despite what they may have been told.
2. The legal age of consent for sexual activity varies in each jurisdiction. The age provisions regarding a possible defence for young offenders also vary. For example some jurisdictions have special provisions if the younger party was aged say 12 years or older and the offender was not more than say 2 years older than the younger person.
3. Even if a Statute of Limitations bars legal proceedings, any abuser should admit guilt, seek treatment, and be willing to be publicly identified to prevent further abuse.
4. CSA can be male-male, male-female, or female-female.

Various definitions of CSA (statutory – child protection, civil and criminal; & clinical) are discussed at the Child Welfare Information Gateway

2.     GUIDING PRINCIPLES:

1. We acknowledge that child sexual abuse and harassment can occur in every environment, within every social community or group, and by individuals in every walk of life.
2. The safety of children and the healing of victims is the first priority within the fellowship and are above all other considerations.
3. We have zero tolerance for any inappropriate sexual behaviour or attitudes toward children or youth.
4. CSA is a criminal offence that must be dealt with by law enforcement agencies.
5. We take personal responsibility to immediately report all allegations of CSA to the appropriate authorities.
6. The public reputation and testimony of our fellowship is supported and maintained by an honest and forthright acknowledgement of any sexual wrong doing, including past incidents.
7. Detailed information about a specific incident is balanced by “need to know” guidelines, and protection of privacy for victims (see Guidelines, Need To Know).
8. We openly encourage parents to increase their understanding and awareness of CSA so they can provide age-appropriate education and boundaries for their children.
9. We commit to regularly accessing information and training regarding CSA.
10. We value the souls of offenders and where possible, will assist in their rehabilitation.

3.     ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES – ALL WORKERS:

• We acknowledge our position of trust and influence in the fellowship and will use our place and responsibility wisely for the prevention and/or mitigation of harm toward minors and youth in the fellowship.
• Before the law and in the general community, we have an accountability re CSA matters due to our role as the final decision makers over matters such as assignment of workers, including their transfer to other jurisdictions, the choice of meeting homes, and assignment of attendees at each home.
• Our behaviour and attitudes toward sexual allegations and sexual crimes have an effect on the behaviours, attitudes, and spiritual well-being of the friends, and the public testimony of the fellowship.
• We do not have the mandate or professional expertise to make determinations about the veracity of sexual allegations, to investigate a CSA matter, or to provide counselling to victims, alleged or convicted abusers, and other involved parties such as parents or spouses.
• Our role includes spiritual care and guidance, and support and assistance as necessary to enable individuals to access professional resources.
• Where possible, we will use the insight and positive relationships that elders, wives or other persons may have within their meeting group during CSA incidents and follow-up.
• The common and valued practice of staying as invited guests in the homes of our friends comes with inherent responsibilities, including:
  • sensitivity and respect for explicit or implicit individual and family boundaries; and
  • confidentiality and privacy for all family members, except when that practice would increase risk or harm to any individual.

3.1. OVERSEER ROLE:

Exemplify a knowledgeable, proactive and forthright approach to the issue of sexual misconduct within the fellowship as follows:

• Take accountability for workers on his staff regarding CSA.
• Maintain a general and current knowledge on CSA matters and professional resources (e.g. Child Abuse Hotline phone number, a resource in or outside fellowship who can provide information and advice on legal obligations, proper reporting process, risks and strategies to reduce risk within ministry, follow up counselling and/or legal resources (see Resources, section 1) ).
• Take immediate and appropriate action (i.e. temporary suspension or permanent dismissal from ministry) where there are allegations or charges of CSA against a worker on his staff.
• In discussion with assigned workers and meeting elder, implement mitigating actions to reduce potential harm to all involved parties where allegations or charges involve one of the friends (see Guidelines, section 3).
• During any sexual abuse incident and follow up, support professionals in their work, including facilitate contacts with and information from other jurisdictions as necessary, and act on the direction and recommendations of the involved professionals.
• Lead open and regular discussions with staff on CSA including on:
  • potential risks of staying with friends/families who have children who are minors, and strategies for reducing that risk;
  • the requirement for staff to regularly access appropriate resources and information;
  • the requirement that staff immediately communicate any allegations in order to facilitate timely action; and
  • the requirement that staff openly discuss CSA with families in assigned area and with other friends, as needed. Access assistance from the Resource person (POC) as required (see Resources, section 1).
• During all aspects of a sexual abuse investigation, exemplify compassion, discretion and impartiality toward all involved parties.
• Perform formal background checks on all prospective workers. The resource person (POC) may provide assistance on this.

3.2. ALL WORKERS:

• Inform overseer of any sexual misconduct allegations or concerns as soon as possible, but do not relinquish personal responsibility for reporting allegations to the appropriate authorities, and the ministering and care for involved parties.
• Co-operate fully with all investigating authorities.
• Access relevant and current resource information on CSA within geographic location, including:
  • guidelines on appropriate touching, conversation, attitudes, and general physical and emotional boundaries with minors; and
  • guidelines on potential risks of staying with families who have minor children.
• Proactively engage in open discussion with families on CSA matters, including:
  • role of workers vs. role of family members;
  • decision making on home visits;
  • where there are home visits, appropriate physical and emotional boundaries and the rationale (i.e. risks, and despite best intentions, possible mis-perceptions);
  • strategies to minimize risk and unintended negative perceptions; and
  • position of the ministry toward police involvement, legal proceedings, and professional counselling related to CSA. The resource person (POC) may be accessed for assistance on this.
• If approached in an inappropriate sexual manner, including a sexual insinuation, by an adult (including a fellow worker or other individual in or outside the fellowship), or a minor, document the facts and as soon as possible, share the information with the overseer and the resource person (POC) in the area.

4.     GUIDELINES:

General Behavior Specific to Visiting in Homes that include Minors:

• Parents or guardians are the decision makers as to a home visit, including visit length, and the sleeping arrangements for their family and for worker visitors.
• Where areas have limited homes resulting in longer visits in homes with minors, a viable option is the use of “baches.”
• Brief visits of overnight stays rather than long stays is preferable in homes where there are minors.
• Conversation and attitudes toward minors should be age appropriate, without any suggestive innuendos or insinuations of special intimacy.
• Maintain conduct that will prevent personal risk and mis-perceptions regarding intentions. Examples include:
  • “The rule of two” – Avoid spending time alone with minor children.
  • Ensure parents know and support this boundary, and have educated their children.
  • Wear publicly appropriate clothes in common areas during visits.

4.1. APPROPRIATE TOUCHING:

Examples of APPROPRIATE forms of affection/behaviour include, but are not limited to:

• Shoulder to shoulder hugs
• Pats on the shoulder or back
• Handshakes
• “High-fives” and hand slapping
• Verbal praise pertaining to godly conduct.
• Holding hands while walking with small children
• Sitting beside small children
• Pats on the head when culturally appropriate
• Spending time with minor/youths in public areas of the home and/or community

4.2. INAPPROPRIATE TOUCHING:

Examples of INAPPROPRIATE contact/behaviour, includes but is not limited to the following:

• Kisses on the mouth
• Inappropriate or lengthy hugs or embraces
• Holding minors, above the approximate age of 5, on one’s lap
• Touching buttocks, genital areas, breasts, knees, thighs or legs
• Showing physical displays of affection in isolated areas of the premises such as  bedrooms, closets, bathrooms, or other private areas of a home
• Sharing a room or bed with a minor or youth.
• Going for a walk alone with a minor or youth.
• Spending time in a minor or youth’s bedroom
• Informal wrestling with minors or youths except for legitimate sports coaching, in which case another adult would be present.
• Tickling and piggyback rides
• Any type of non-professional massage given by an adult to a minor or youth.
• Any display of unwanted affection towards a minor or youth.
• Remarks that include compliments relating to sexual attractiveness or sexual  development
• Lifting a child off the ground without parental consent.

4.3. FOLLOW-UP TO CHARGES:

Follow-up to charges and/or other intervention by authorities (i.e. law enforcement or child protection):

• Disclose when a worker is removed from active ministry pending an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse of a victim to those who have a “need to know” (see Guidelines, Need To Know).
• With the exception of those who have an express “need to know”, do not disclose identity of a victim or information that would lead to identification of a victim (see Guidelines, Need To Know).
• Publicly disclose when a worker is convicted of sexual abuse as the result of a criminal process or when a worker is removed from the work for sufficient cause (see Overseer Role, point 3.1).
• Consideration should be given to victim financial assistance re expenses related to treatment required to aid in healing.
• On a need to know basis, disclose CSA allegations, charges or misconduct by one of the friends following the completion of an investigation (see Guidelines, Need To Know).
• Convicted sex offenders should be separated from the main group of friends for meetings to reduce their opportunities to observe and groom potential victims, and potentially lead to further incidents. However, adequate consideration and ministry should be given to assist an offender’s restoration in spirit and in faith.
• Restoration to the main meeting assemblies should occur only after consultation with professional and legal counsel, as well as the individuals in the affected meetings.

4.4.NEED TO KNOW:

Privacy of Individuals and “Need to know” Guidelines:

• The protection of privacy for victims and families will be honoured where possible.
• Where possible, the parents of minors and youths will be involved when reporting CSA allegations to authorities.
• Despite the family nature of the fellowship, to protect undue harm and reputations prior to the completion of an investigation by a law enforcement agency, only individuals who can assist in the investigation, or can prevent further harm will be notified about a CSA incident. This could include the meeting elder, other discreet support persons for a family or individual (e.g. POC), or families with minors in contact with the alleged offender. However the wider fellowship should be notified if the investigating authorities request, in order to pursue other possible incidents by the alleged offender.
• Where allegations have been clearly proven to be unsubstantiated, this information should be plainly communicated to the appropriate individuals and families.

5.     RESOURCES:

Completion by all workers of awareness training on CSA which will:

• Reinforce personal and legal accountability as a person in a significant position of trust in the fellowship. This includes clear knowledge of legal mandatory reporting requirements.
• Raise awareness of:
  • potential risks or unwanted perceptions that could occur due to the common practice of staying in homes of friends/families where there are minors, and establishing close personal relationships with minors beyond ministering role;
  • strategies to minimize and reduce risk;
  • typical behaviours of victims and abusers, and “cries for help,” including when consultation with the assigned POC is necessary.
• Increase knowledge of available professional resources, including the POC .
• Within ministry role, lead appropriate support, and where necessary, guidance to impacted individuals and families.

NOTE: It is recommended that all workers begin training with the MinistrySafe online course.

5.1. POINT OF CONTACT:

Outline of Role

• Each overseer-district (state/province/small country) should identify one key resource individual as a point of contact (POC) on CSA matters. This could be the overseer or another designated person.
• This person should be knowledgeable on CSA and provide confidential guidance and information to workers and friends, including access to the applicable statutes.
• POCs will advise and assist in reporting CSA allegations, provide information about counselling resources, facilitate further community contacts as necessary (e.g. child protection social workers, child sexual abuse detectives) and either provide CSA awareness training or facilitate access to training.
• The POC is not to be considered the reporting officer for offense allegations; that is the role of civil authorities. Reporting allegations to the POC is not required. The POC is to assist and advise on reporting.
• POCs should have annual meetings with elders and workers to monitor CSA training needs and general level of awareness.
• If required, POCs can assist in criminal background checks for ministry candidates.
• POCs should be aware of POCs in other regions for mutual support and guidance.

NOTE: Social workers, teachers and health care professionals are possible candidates as POCs; however any individual prepared to learn about the subject, who has good communication skills, and is discreet could serve in this role.

5.2. MINISTRY TRAINING AND EDUCATION:

CSA education, and awareness training http://csa-help.com/EducationTraining.html  

Is Your Ministry Safe from Child Sexual Abuse. http://www.ministrysafe.com/  

Reducing the Risk. http://www.reducingtherisk.org.uk 

FaithTrust Institute – Working together to end sexual & domestic violence. http://www.faithtrustinstitute.org/ 

5.3. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE:

Links to various government and NGO resources are available at https://wingsfortruth.wordpress.com/resources/

6.     SUPPORTING SURVIVORS:

A friend, partner, or family member confiding in you about CSA events in their life can be an important part of their healing. How you respond and offer support can make a difference to their journey. The decision to heal is an important step for survivors. The first step in the process can be acknowledging that the experience has had an impact on their life and deciding to share it.

Breaking the silence. Most adult survivors kept the abuse a secret in childhood. Telling another human being about what happened is a powerful healing force that can dispel the shame of being a victim.

“Courage to Heal: A Guide for Women Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse.” Bass, Ellen & Davis, Laura. Perrenial Currents, June 1994. p.58

6.1. Tips for responding to disclosure:

Accept – Be prepared to hear about things that are difficult to hear. Experiences may be shared that you can barely imagine happening. Accept what you are being told without questioning facts. Abuse has often been kept a secret and it may be the first time it has been shared. Do not judge anything you are told by your experience.

Listen – It is important for people to be able to openly express their feelings and CSA experience. Try not to express the emotions that the experience raises for you. Focus on the feelings the person is expressing.

Acknowledge – The impact of abuse on survivors cannot be underestimated. Acknowledging a person’s courage in sharing and talking to you is important.

Take them seriously – The experience of child abuse can often be minimized and understated. Let them know you think these are serious issues and worth talking about. Children are often told by their abuser that if they talk no one will believe them.

No Blame – Adults survivors often blame themselves for being abused. It is important you reassure them the behaviour of the abuser was wrong and nothing makes it reasonable or acceptable. If you must blame, blame the abuser.

Trust – Let this person know you are willing to listen to them. Remember this may be their first step in sharing. Tell them you will listen to them and respect their confidence. Ask them how you can best support them. Ask them if you can help them find formal support but do not push them.

6.2. Do and Don’t

Do:

• Learn what you can about the effects of CSA and the recovery process
• Validate feelings
• Encourage therapy
• Blame the offenders
• Listen
• Accept what the survivor feels

Don’t:

• Blame the survivor
• Overwhelm the survivor with your feelings
• Force forgiveness on the survivor
• Give advice
• Try to fix everything

Thursday March 30, 2023

Dear Friends,

We felt it appropriate to send this word to you regarding some allegations that have arisen regarding an overseer, Dean Bruer, in the northwestern part of the country. As some of you may have heard by now, there are allegations against him involving serious immoral behavior that came to light after his unexpected death last summer, and only in recent days has been brought to our attention here. It seems that this matter has been investigated and is being handled appropriately by those now responsible in the states in which he worked. We write this to confirm that the rumors circulating about him seem to have validity, to express our sympathy to the victims there, and to open a door of communication to any in our states here that wish to speak more about it with us personally.

We would also like you to understand that we have been proactive here in trying to prevent these issues. In recent years, as a precaution, all of the workers on our staff have taken the Ministrysafe course at least once (and many of us more than once). This course offers guidance on what is appropriate and inappropriate in our interactions with others, especially among our youth. We also see clearly the wisdom of the Lord in planning that we in this ministry work together in pairs as there is safety in this for both workers and saints.

I have appreciated Paul’s own testimony in I Thess. 2:10. “Ye are our witnesses, and God also, how holily, and justly, and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:” We are sobered with the thought that we are living in the sight of God and before the Lord’s people, and are open to examination by both. I trust that all on our staff have this desire & purpose to conduct ourselves accordingly among you. We do love each of you and don’t want to be a disappointment to you in any way.

Several have written us with words of encouragement and support at this difficult time and we greatly appreciate that! Thanks as well for your prayers for those affected and for all of us seeking to keep ourselves upright in the Lord’s work.

Thank you for not forwarding this letter to others.

Your brother, Kelvin Naef & the GA/SC/FL staff

Dear Northeast ND field,

Hello. Phyllis, Brinna and I returned to the field on Tuesday. We are anxious to get started with gospel meetings, but we do not have clear direction yet, of where that should be.

In light of the recent news about the misconduct of Dean Bruer, we wish we could be everywhere, with all of you. Not that we can do anything, but this is a shared grief and betrayal for all of us, and we all need reassurance and comfort and help. Everyone will be affected differently based on their own personal experiences in life. While we all share some of the same feelings of betrayal and hurt, others will be more deeply distressed if it comes close to other heartaches. We know that Dean has close ties with ND, and that adds another layer of hurt and betrayal for those who trusted and loved him as a family member and friend. All feelings are valid, and all feelings will come up as we try to process this. Please feel free to call us or let us know that you need a visit if that would be helpful to you. Or talk to other people you trust, or even seek professional help if you feel it would be a benefit

It seems so unbelievable! There seems to be plenty of evidence that his misconduct is real, and very serious. Dean was not behaving as just a weak human with normal desires, but as a sexual predator, expert at manipulating and keeping things hidden. Both adult and under-age victims have come forward. Of course all of us wonder HOW DID THIS HAPPEN???? And now, what can we do so that it does not happen again or continue to happen. How it was hidden and how it was committed seems baffling to us, because normal people do not think the same as someone with these deviant desires. We want to encourage you, if you are ever feeling harassed or intimidated by ANYONE, EVER, please tell someone. Be careful of anyone who asks you to keep secrets, or promotes the idea that inappropriate behavior on their part is your fault. As much as we warn to think the best of people, we have to acknowledge that there are skilled and sneaky predators in the world. If you see something, say something.

We all feel betrayed because we trusted him. From our understanding, the first victims came forward after Dean had already died. Most of the workers on the ND/SD staff have only known about this since Friday or Saturday last week. None of us are experts at dealing with this, and we are trying to manage our own feelings as well as help others. We are doing our best to communicate openly and handle it wisely. We are feeling our way, praying and seeking help from God, as you all are.

This experience shakes us deeply. I have found comfort in these reassurances Io my own heart:

Dean is dead. He is in the hands of an all knowing God. We do not need to personally condemn or excuse him. The judge of all the world will do right.

“God is faithful to his chosen, in his dealings every day. Both in judgement and in mercy, all along the pilgrim way.“

A childlike spirit is still right and safe. With God, it is safe to trust. I don’t have to fortify myself against this. I need to cling to the One who is 100% true.

This gives Satan opportunity to attack us when we are shaken and vulnerable But anything that is an opportunity for Satan is also an opportunity for God to help us get our feet more firmly on solid ground, and prove to us He is trustworthy and strong. We can come out of this spiritually enriched if we seek God s help.

Please pray for us and we will for you.

Stay in God’s care,

Sincerely,

Phyllis, Brinna, and BethArlene

There has been concern and misinformation about the “timeline” in connection with reporting the Dean Bruer situation. First of all. my apologies tor not making this clearer in my first letter. I am in uncharted territory. We are all responsible to avoid spreading unverified, untrue or dramatic information that thereby makes it more traumatic, difficult or frightening for any still-unknown victims to come forward and get the help they need and deserve.

Dean passed away June 21 or 22 and unfortunately nothing was known about the dark side of his life, except by victims of course, until September. Just after his passing we were concerned about finding information pertaining to our planning, etc on his computer but I wasn’t searching suspiciously, and was very busy. I never thought to search for evidence of Dean’s horrific actions until after the first victim, an adult, came to me nearly three months after his passing. Just before the first victim came forward. I was very disappointed to notice that he had viewed (legal) pornography on his computer and phone, apparently the last night of his life Contrary to internet speculation, nothing criminal was discovered on his devices— nothing like pornography depicting minors and no lewd or incriminating photos were ever found on his devices. The only incriminating evidence we ever discovered was email between him and one adult victim. Dean s computer is now in the hands of the police, and forensics would be able to detect if and when any alterations were made (we did not alter anything). In late September the second adult victim surfaced and no other victims were confirmed until just before our disclosure letter went out last week (March 23).

Since the perpetrator is deceased, we were advised by a professional trauma counsellor to be careful first of all for the needs of the victims. Obviously, no one else is more important in all of this than the victims. Mandatory reporters are required to immediately report sexual abuse that involves minors but must respect the wishes of abuse victims who are now adults with regards to when and if their abuse is reported. We have no known victims that are presently minors. Sadly, it has come to light just this month that 3 known victims were minors when he abused them in years past.

Our disclosure timing was thus victim-sensitive and victim-led, respecting the fact our known victims were in a “process to uncover.” It was very clear, to counsellors and to us, the victims would have been very traumatized by an earlier disclosure. Just prior to sending out our letter last week, the victims did agree Io disclosure, but with considerable trepidation. It was a help knowing that the perpetrator was deceased and thankfully not in a position to hurt anyone ever again.

Contrary to internet speculation the disclosure was not forced by legal authorities nor anyone else. We didn’t have any conversation of this kind with a legal authority or anyone else. The disclosure was 100% voluntary- a serious attempt to be transparent about what happened for the sake of all victims. We understand under such egregious circumstances, the reality is that there could be more victims. We would never consider covering up something like this at the expense of leaving known and unknown victims lost in their very difficult circumstance, desperately needing help. It would be cruel to do so. Honesty is always worth whatever it costs. Our sincere hope is that all victims will reach out. We will not in any way be inclined to blame them. We are anxious to help in every way. We have a growing list of therapist recommendations, and many offers to help in any way possible.

We are going ahead with very definite plans for further Mandatory Reporting and MinistrySafe type training for all our staff. We are anxious to do everything possible to help prevent, detect and properly handle any future incidents.

I hope this helps clarify. Thank you for your patience and prayers — we know our Father in heaven sees all things and we can trust Him to help us keep steady in our place and lead us through this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Doyle S.

March 28. 2023

Dear Friends.

It is with a heavy heart that we share with you the disheartening news concerning our coworker, Dean Bruer. He has been accused of living an immoral double life, and there seems to be ample evidence to support these claims. Dean has never labored in our state, but he was a member of our ministry, therefore his error affects each of us in this ministry. In our current generation of social media, we are sure that most of you are already aware of this issue.

The integrity of our ministry is called into question when one amongst us betrays the holy trust shown to us by our friends. Our purpose as Christians and as messengers sent with the gospel, is to manifest our belief by our life and behavior among all people.

One part of the armor of God is to have our feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. This indicates that the influence of our life testifies of the peace we have because of the gospel we have accepted. It is meant to be a living sermon of invitation to others who are searching for peace. When a messenger of the gospel betrays that testimony, the repercussions are felt throughout the fellowship.

It is with reverent godly fear that we apologize for this misconduct. We hope and pray to be worthy of the trust you have shown to us in the ministry.

We believe in boundaries. The Lord promised us a hundred-fold of homes, family, and children. However, it is with the awareness that these things are given to us for the gospel’s sake. What we receive is given to us because of the message we carry, and we carry that message with professional responsibility.

We purpose to maintain professional boundaries while in your homes and with your children. We ask that you help us with this. Please teach your children cues for avoiding questionable behavior. Children do not have the maturity to understand the complexity of human behavior, but they can be taught simple cues for safety.

For example:

1.           Do not be alone in a bedroom with an adult other than a parent or assigned caretaker
2.           How to appropriately embrace an adult
3.           Topics of conversation that are inappropriate.

It grieves our heart to have to say these things, but if we work together, we can facilitate a safe environment that will promote a spiritual fellowship that edifies faith.

As members of this ministry, we want to assure you of how much we love and care for you. We are heartbroken by the disgrace of human failure, but our faith in the Lord’s ministry is unchanged. This is the ministry that our Lord established in the earth. Human failure can compromise its testimony, but it cannot undermine its validity.  Judas Iscariot was also a part of this ministry, but in the wake of his betrayal the Holy Spirit still impelled this same ministry forward.

We want to assure you that we will do what we can to assist those who are victims of this abuse. We encourage you to visit with the workers in your field or with us if you have concerns or questions. We will be confidential in-as-much as we can. It is our legal responsibility in the case of underage victims to report abuse to the proper authorities.  We understand that this is a very difficult journey for everyone. We remind all that by bringing to light this horrible behavior, we may be saving others from being victims of the same abuse.

As workers in Texas and New Mexico we have taken, and continue to take, instruction from a course recognized by the state of Texas regarding proper boundaries with minors. We have also asked our staff to read the book “Boundaries.” We are also looking into other materials about the eradication of abuse and steps that can be taken to defend from and detect inappropriate behavior.

We are reminded of the statement of Paul in 2 Timothy 2:19 “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal. The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”

Your brothers in Christ,

Lyle Schober and Westin Price

Lyle’s Phone: [redacted]
email: [redacted]

Westin’s Phone: [redacted]
Email: [redacted]

It seems very necessary to mention a very disheartening situation that has been made known to us this last week. Dean Bruer (a worker in OR who had also spent years in WY MT, maybe other places?) had been living a very immoral, dishonest double life before his death. We are so very sorry about that & feel especially for his victims! I believe The most friends in the areas where he worked have been notified. I know he was here in Nebraska for special meetings last spring, I sure hope there was nothing that happened while he was here. We heartily encourage any that have been a victim of abuse or inappropriate behavior been to reach out for support & to seek professional help if needed.

Quite a number have called or texted/emailed and expressed concern if there is anything being done to try to prevent such things from happening here in KS/NE. All the workers on our staff have kept current on continuing education regarding recognizing & preventing child sexual abuse through a Ministry Safe Course. Workers are encouraged (in fact it is mandatory). to report any CSA directly to law enforcement for investigation (our Friends can do that too)( Our Workers have been encouraged to speak up if they witness or experience inappropriate behavior towards them or others, no matter who it is (our Friends can do that too). This recent event has indeed shown the value of/need for that approach.

We are so very sorry & ashamed that some among us have betrayed the trust of others, but that is reality. Likely the apostles were very shocked & ashamed when Judas’ secret sin came to light. His sin didn’t mean they were all dishonest, but likely they bore some reproach because of it as well. Though they weren’t perfect, the 11 & others proved to be true men & God used them to help accomplish his purpose through the book of Acts. I’m thankful that the many workers who were in our home from my youth & those I’ve worked closely with through the years have been true men & women and have been a great help and encouragement to me. They have pointed us to Jesus, the one perfect one who will never disappoint.

With all the workers I have been with since learning this, there seems to be a renewed purpose to keep our lives above any reproach, and would hope to gain back the trust of our dear friends, that has been so carelessly broken by some.

I am very open for anyone to contact me or any of the other workers with any other concerns regarding any of this. We do want to be as open and transparent about this issue as we can, but also realize that there is a part of our human nature that craves to feed on all the failings of others to help justify ourselves, so we struggle to find that balance.

Thank you very much for trying to understand my feeble attempt to put into words the deep feelings in my heart

Your Brother & servant

Richard

Please share with your field including the letter from Doyle that is attached.

Dear WA, N ID and AK friends,

We are very sorry and apologize to you for delaying in sharing information regarding Dean Bruer’s unacceptable secret life. We understand the hurt and pain many of you have felt, receiving the news from other sources. We are including his letter again as an attachment, so that you are receiving it directly from us, and so you will understand that we have nothing to hide. We plan to be quicker in sharing news in the future, though we know we can never beat social media.

We want to be transparent and accountable, and for you to feel free to communicate with us. Many of you have been very helpful to us already. Thank you for your prayers and caring advice/help/patience to us and with us. One thing we want to make very clear, is that if anyone has felt uncomfortable with any of the workers you’ve been around (including us), we want you to feel at liberty to share that with us, or other workers or friends that you trust. Also, if anyone is a victim of abuse from a worker, elder or anyone connected to our fellowship…the police should be contacted, as this is a legal issue. We don’t want to have a culture among our fellowship that is conducive for predators to work within.

It was discovered a while after Dean died that he had accessed a porn site while he was at the Motel where he died. At Boring #2, a lady went to Doyle and spoke of a relationship she had with Dean for 2 or 3 years that included physical sex. A 2nd lady victim surfaced in October. After extensive therapy that covered quite a while, there were accusations of child molestation. After Doyle’s letter was communicated, a 3rd lady victim surfaced, and again there was talk of child molestation when she was quite young.

As far as is known, all the issues took place in the MT and OR areas, so Doyle is the one that initiated communication, along with Scott. The web sites and internet picked it up from Doyle’s communication. Since Dean was dead, Doyle asked people to remain confidential until he and Scott were finished communicating in-person. There was never the thought that it would be hid or confidential after last Thursday. Communication was not in response to an investigator or the internet. The internet and emails were much quicker than phone calls and visits. A more accurate account of the timeline will be sent out later once it can be compiled.

Another thing that has recently surfaced is from a friends’ group discussion meeting last night in the N Seattle field. At one point in the meeting a lady spoke up. She told of personally talking to a now adult woman, who had interaction at the age of 11 with Mark Huddle. This woman said that Mark invited her to sit on his lap while he read stories to her, in a way which she felt was awkward and inappropriate. We do not have all the facts, and want to be slow to jump to conclusions, but we don’t want to hide what is open and circulating either. Mark is aware of the accusation against him and feels it best that we write and send this email.

So… the future…

All the workers on our staff will take a “Ministry Safe” course. Moses took council from his father- in-law about learning to delegate. He was likely not professing, but it was good council, and he took it. It seems like we need all the help we can get from multiple sources. Other steps will also be taken as they become clear.

People should feel safe and be safe… sisters, friends, and children.

Isaiah 6:1 In the year that king Uzziah died, I saw also the Lord sitting upon his throne, high and lifted up. There is a Lord high and lifted up, and He is the one that is safe to keep our focus on.

With much care,

Your brothers,

Brian and Wayne

Dear Wisconsin Friends & Workers, (please do not forward)

It was very special to be in North & South Dakota for the sp mtg rounds there the past several weeks. I finished in Sioux Falls Sunday afternoon & joined our rounds in the Milwaukee area Monday afternoon. We had a very special workers mtg there this morning. If you wanted, you could get a feel for the tone of it by looking at the hymns that 3 different workers chose there: 339, 236 & 405. It’s always encouraging to hear the humble prayers & purposes of our coworkers and see their dedication to their calling.

It was extra meaningful to be together, as we all (& very many others) are hurting after learning Dean Bruer (a worker in OR who died last summer) had been living an immoral double life before his death. We are sooo sorry about that & feel especially for his victims! The friends in the areas where he worked have been notified. Any others who have been a victim of abuse or inappropriate behavior have been encouraged to reach out for support & to seek professional help if needed.

Some have expressed concern if there is anything being done to try to prevent such things from happening here. The workers here have kept current on continuing education regarding recognizing & preventing child sexual abuse. Workers are encouraged to report any CSA directly to law enforcement for investigation (Friends can do that too). Workers have been encouraged to speak up if they witness or experience inappropriate behavior towards them or others, no matter who it is (Friends can do that too).

The recent events have borne out the value of/need for that approach. Though the workers know these things we did have a helpful informal meeting this afternoon regarding these matters & other ways the ministry can be kept safe and honorable. The staff seems very on board & united in this. We are so sorry & ashamed that some among us have betrayed the trust of others, but that is reality.

Likely the apostles were very shocked & ashamed when Judas’ secret sin came to light. His sin didn’t mean they were all dishonest, but likely they bore some reproach because of it. Though they weren’t perfect, the 11 & others proved to be true men & God used them to help accomplish his purpose through the book of Acts.

I’m thankful that the many workers who were in our home from my youth & those I’ve worked closely with through the years have been true men & women and have been a great help and encouragement to me. They have pointed us to Jesus, the one perfect one who will never disappoint.

Your brother,

Glenn [Gasser]

Dear elders and friends, 

Here is an outline of what we know about the timeline of events regarding Dean Bruer.

-After Dean’s death and funeral, Doyle accessed Dean’s computer looking for the worker list, and found inappropriate things.

-At Boring convention, an adult female victim came forward about her relationship with Dean in the last several years. She asked for the information to be kept quiet. 

-In the last several weeks, other adult victims have come forward, including one who was underage at the time they were abused by Dean. They asked that the information be made public.

-Doyle wrote a letter (included with this email) to share the information about Dean with the friends. The purpose was for the workers to personally share the information last week, via reading the letter, with all the friends in the states where Dean has labored most recently: OR, S ID, MT, WY. The friends were asked not to discuss it in an effort to have the information come from the workers first. Unfortunately, the letter was posted on the internet before those visits were completed. 

-Thursday, the WA, N ID, and AK staff was contacted with the information. At this point there are no known victims from our states. Again, we encourage anyone who has been a victim of any inappropriate behavior by Dean or anyone else to please reach out to someone you trust.

-Friday, Doyle took Dean’s computer to the police. 

-The notice circulating about the Clackamas County Sheriff asking for information appears not to be an open case. 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out for a visit, either with your elders or your workers. There is a lot to process and a lot of noise right now, and while we are trying to touch bases with as many people as possible, we don’t always know where the most immediate needs are. Our purpose is to shepherd our sheep with compassion and share safe pastures to feed on. 

-Karen and Amy

Dear LA, MS and AL Elders and Friends,

This is to acknowledge the report of the misconduct of Dean Bruer, a worker/overseer, now deceased, from OR, of whom you may be hearing about. The immoral conduct, that isn’t to be named even once amongst the saints, how much less of servants, is condemned. For those who are hurt by these actions, beginning with the victims, we pray that they may find the support needed from being believed and comforted in knowing that this is not tolerated amongst us.

In the aftermath of this, my thoughts go back to the time that Dean last visited in LA. If there’s anyone who had any unwelcome encounters with him at that time, I was not made aware of it. I’m keenly aware of the need to encourage everyone amongst us to be free to report to the appropriate authorities anything, such as Child Sexual Abuse, or misconduct of servant or saint.

We on the LA, MS and AL staff of workers participate in an educational resource called Ministry Safe, which instructs us to be aware of Child Sexual Abuse and how to conduct oneself and ministry to be safe.

On behalf of those of us in the ministry I offer thanks for your support and trust, and pledge to not betray that.

Your brother,

[Robert Eberhardt]