In a troubling development for the Assemblies of God community, M. Wayne Blackburn, the senior pastor of Victory Church in Lakeland, Florida, is facing serious allegations in a newly filed lawsuit. The suit claims that Blackburn played a role in covering up the sexual abuse of a young boy nearly four decades ago. The plaintiff, Christopher Woods Sr., alleges that he was sexually abused by Walter Steverson, a church volunteer, when he was just seven years old.
The lawsuit, filed on March 5 in the Circuit Court for the 10th Judicial Circuit in Bartow, Florida, names Blackburn, Steverson, and the Assemblies of God Peninsular Florida District as defendants. According to Woods’ attorney, Boz Tchividjian, who is also the grandson of the late Rev. Billy Graham, the case is not just about seeking damages but also about holding accountable those who allegedly contributed to the cover-up of the abuse.
Woods seeks damages exceeding $50,000, excluding interest and legal fees. He claims that Blackburn not only failed to report the abuse but actively discouraged him from speaking out. The lawsuit alleges that Blackburn told Woods to keep the abuse a secret and implied that his mother would not believe him if he came forward. This kind of behavior, if proven true, raises serious questions about the accountability of church leaders in protecting their congregants.
In response to the lawsuit, representatives for Blackburn and the Assemblies of God Peninsular Florida District have firmly denied the allegations. Trinity Jordan, a spokesperson for the district, stated that they believe Woods has mistaken Blackburn for someone else, emphasizing that Blackburn was not involved in the church’s youth programs at the time of the alleged events. They expressed sympathy for anyone who has experienced abuse but maintain that the claims against Blackburn are unfounded.
The lawsuit details a harrowing account of Woods’ experiences, which he claims began in 1983. He alleges that during a Royal Rangers meeting, Steverson, who was a volunteer leader, began to abuse him. Despite reporting the incidents to church authorities, Woods claims that he was met with disbelief and a lack of action. The complaint outlines several instances of abuse, including one that occurred during a camping trip organized by the church, where Woods felt trapped and unable to escape his abuser.
As the case unfolds, it highlights a critical issue within many faith communities: the need for transparency and accountability when it comes to allegations of abuse. The church has a responsibility to protect its members, especially vulnerable children, and to take allegations seriously. The silence surrounding such matters can lead to further harm and perpetuate a cycle of abuse that affects not only the victims but the entire community.
For those interested in supporting survivors of abuse or learning more about prevention efforts, organizations like the National Sexual Violence Resource Center and RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) offer valuable resources. It is crucial for communities to foster environments where individuals feel safe to speak out and where their voices are heard and validated.
As this case progresses, it serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and advocacy within faith communities. It is essential to ensure that all members, particularly the most vulnerable, are protected and that justice is sought for those who have suffered. The outcome of this lawsuit may have far-reaching implications for how churches handle allegations of abuse in the future.