Survivors of sexual abuse share their stories at SBC's 'Caring Well' conference
Megan Lively, a social media specialist, revealed she was raped while a student at a Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C. However, when she reported the ordeal to administration, she was "belittled by leaders to whom I had come for protection" and "made to feel as if what happened was my fault," she said.
"The day I reported what happened to me I was seen as a problem to be dealt with rather than a child of God who had been sinned against. I was seen as someone threatening an institution rather than as a sister of Christ."
It wasn’t until 15 years later in 2018 that Lively decided to disclose the abuse she endured. This time, she experienced support thanks to her husband, pastor, and the new seminary administration. Today, Lively said she is "cared for by the institution that I was convinced had failed me.”
Lively shared the long-term effects of sexual assault, including physical pain, flashbacks and insomnia.
“It may be helpful to know survivors inside and outside the church walk through life with an incredible amount of internal fear, anxiety and insecurity,” she said. "We must join together against this enemy and draw near to the One who has already crushed his head," she said. "Jesus has won. I am His."
