The Community was established by Mr Kevin Horgan and Mr Frank Carr in 1979. Recently Mr Horgan has resigned/stood down and his behaviour reported to police. Mr Carr and Mr Dudley have stood down from all leadership positions in the Community.
I guess it will be the normal Bethel response - they keep secret
everything that is happening, other than what they want outsiders to
know. Unfortunately they just don't see that their behaviour is that of
a cult. Things that happened in my ex-group were kept secret from every
other group. The worst thing about this is the usual sense of
superiority and the " we are better than you" mentality. No doubt
people are now bowing down before Anne Diamond instead of Pam Carr. I
urge any one left in Bethel ( that is if they have been "allowed" to
read this website) to leave - after a few weeks you will wonder why you
did not see the psychological, financial, and physical abuse and
humiliation- ask for help from ex-members - we know exactly what you
are going through.
Hello everyone. The Interim Operations Review Group (IORG) has been set up by Bethel Community (Bethel) to try and navigate a way forward for all members since the resignations of Messrs Horgan and Carr and, more recently, Dudley from all leadership positions and directorships.
We are not mouthpieces of Mssrs Horgan, Carr or Dudley. We take no direction from them. The IORG is an independent interim group and has no connection or direction from the previous leadership
The members of the IORG share the moral outrage of others who have been contributing to this blog and of fellow members of Bethel who have spoken to us. We abhor and condemn the alleged misconduct which has occurred as being totally unacceptable for any Christian or, for that matter, in the wider community. We acknowledge that a lot of people have experienced - and continue to experience – pain as a result of their experiences with the Bethel Community and its past leadership.
A lot has been said on this blog and the IORG would like to join the conversation. But with the understanding that while for legal reasons we need to be careful about what we write, we will still endeavour to be as open and frank as possible. We do not wish to potentially prejudice other investigations by any comments which might appear on this blog.
We wish to clarify for participants that this blog was not set up by Bethel. The IORG is unaware of who set it up, or who is running it. However, we hope that people who use it find it to be of value as part of the healing process.
It is not the intent of the IORG to debate issues on this blog, or to convince someone about a point of view - rather it is to provide information for others to take or leave as they wish.
Further posts should be added by the IORG as more information comes to light. We hope to provide more information about what is happening within Bethel as a response to recent events, and about some external groups that the Community has been interacting with to help deal with these matters.
ACTION – COUNELLING AND SUPPORT
Since details of the unacceptable behaviour first became known to us in mid March 2008, the IORG has acted as quickly as possible.
We have taken a number of measures to support those who may have suffered, including:
·Consulted with a psychiatrist to get recommendations on suitably qualified, independent counselors to provide help to members and ex members of Bethel who have suffered.
·Arranged for Christobel Charmarette, a clinical psychologist on the Anglican Professional Standards Committee with extensive experience in these sorts of issues, to address women members of Bethel.
·Made available to members and ex members of Bethel counseling support and services at no charge. Bethel will cover the cost of counseling sessions (i.e., pay the difference, or gap between any medical insurance refund and the fees) for members or ex members. Ms Charmarette can be contacted on Tel: 9335 9411. An alternate contact is, Mr. John Manners (Tel: 9474 1711), a clinical psychologist with experience in the area of sexual boundaries in religious groups. The privacy of anybody requiring counseling under this arrangement will be protected. No personal information from any counseling session will be provided to Bethel.
·IORG has also been cooperating with Police and actively providing information. If you wish to report any information related to these alleged matters you are urged to call the WA Police Sexual Assault Squad, Detective Nat Bennison on Tel: 9223 3425 and quote Reference Number: 270308 1500 11133.
·Alternatively, contact the Sexual Assault Resource Centre – this is a free 24/7 emergency service. Crisis line: 9340 1828, counseling line – 9340 1899.
OTHER ACTION
The events within Bethel which have come to light have sparked a series of actions, including the Interim Operations Review Group being set up. The goal of the IORG has been to provide structure and transparency to facilitate dealing with immediate issues, interim operations and the required changes within Bethel. We are committed to doing the right thing by the victims of alleged misconduct, whether they be current or former members of Bethel.We are taking professional external advice to help us do that.
The IORG has been working towards putting in place a new governance structure for Bethel Community, including establishing a Misconduct Grievances Committee with both men and women as members.
We have sought legal advice and advice from corporate governance experts on this, as well as on restructuring the Constitution of Bethel – including looking at the establishment of a Board, separate from the Pastoral team. In fact we are reviewing most of the aspects of what Bethel does and does not do, in terms of mission, approach and activities.
A properly qualified independent accountancy group has also been engaged to audit Bethel’s financial records and reporting procedures.
THE IORG – WHO WE ARE
When the incidents involving some at Bethel came to light in mid March 2008 and after Messrs Horgan and Carr had resigned, the Interim Operations Review Group was formed. The initial members of the IORG were:
- Rob Crothers (Chair)
- Claire Gourlay
- Greg Diamond
- Tony Walsh
The IORG has subsequently askedKathryn Probert to join and she has accepted.
Following suggestions at a recent meeting of the adult members of Bethel, the IORG will consider at its next meeting adding a further two people in order to give a broader representation of members.
As you would be aware, identities can easily be forged on the internet. This information is presented here simply to add authenticity to posts on this blog from IORG. These people can be easily contacted should you wish to verify this. Alternatively, please send an email toioc@live.co.uk with a contact number and one of these members will contact you simply to verify these details.
A SNAPSHOT OF HOW RECENT EVENTS UNFOLDED
As part of our endeavour to be transparent, this post presents the following snapshot of recent events. Responses to these events may form the part of a future blog. As we have previously stated, the IORG need to be mindful of what is written for legal reasons.
Please note that these events are not presented in chronological order. Rather, in the order in which they became known to members of the IORG. Although some knowledge may have existed previously, their significance only became apparent with other information coming to light.
Events during February / March / April2008 period
- A married couple within Bethel informed Peter Dudley of alleged misconduct
- Peter Dudley confronted Kevin Horgan and Frank Carr on the alleged misconduct.
- Frank Carr, Peter Dudley and married couple met.
- Kevin Horgan, Frank Carr and Peter Dudley met again.
- Married couple met with Bishop Sproxton.
- Peter Dudley met with Bishop Sproxton and the Bishop requested a meeting with Kevin Horgan and Frank Carr.
- Kevin Horgan, Sue Horgan, Frank Carr and Fr Chris Ross met with Bishop Sproxton. Peter Dudley was invited to the meeting by the Bishop. New leaders appointed eight days previously, Tony Walsh and Greg Diamond, were not invited despite protests.
- Bishop Sproxton requested Kevin Horgan to stand down. It was suggested an Open Forum be held at the next meeting of the adult members of Bethel.
- First leader’s meeting with Tony Walsh, Greg Diamond, Frank Carr and Peter Dudley all attending was held. Frank Carr advised of a second allegation of misconduct.
- Leaders agreed that Kevin Horgan stand down.
- Open Forum held at a meeting of adult members of Bethel.
- Further allegations of misconduct came to light in the day of the Open Forum.
- Kevin Horgan and Sue Horgan resigned from all aspects of Bethel.
- Frank Carr resigned as a leader and director of Bethel.
- Special meeting held of Pastoral advisors.
- Special meeting held of the adult members of Bethel to present interim structure and review od Bethel by IORG.
- Information provided that up to 8 current members and up to 8 former members have been the victims of alleged misconduct.
- Interim Operations Review Group begins meeting.
- Counseling information provided to Bethel members.
- Contact information for WA Police provided to Bethel members.
- Further investigation revealed that issues of this nature were raised previously .
- Peter Dudley resigned as a leader and director of Bethel.
- Full disclosure of events presented at a meeting of the adult members of Bethel.
NEXT STEPS
The IORG will continue to progress the matters as outlined above.
A fundamental objective is to continue to be totally transparent with the members of Bethel – the truth needs to be completely out in the open for all to see if we are to promote healing and true reconciliation within Bethel.
The IORG will also continue to actively provide whatever information is required in order for those who have been involved in these totally unacceptable behaviours to be dealt with fully - under the law and within the normally acceptable moral standards of the Christian community, whatever form those just consequences might take with the individuals involved.
Well, I'm not really sure what to say. It just seems so utterly bizarre to hear about these seemingly well-considered, organised steps towards clarifying the extent of allegations, moving towards justice for victims, the offering of support and fairly sturdy discussions about a way forward...
All this with an apparently strong commitment to "due diligence" e.g. the engagement of independent, non-Bethel persons. It just sounds absolutely extraordinary! Where in the world did that kind of thinking come from?!
I have to agree with ex-Bethel's scepticism about the cult-hangover mentality of members and the IORG. Whilst it sounds impressively and even genuinely committed to thorough and independent management of the situation - it's simply not possible to have people who have spent HALF THEIR LIVES OR MORE in a cult to then turn around and be objective about experiences.The IORG has stated that they are getting a lot of independent advice and, well, just maybe this scenario is better than having the whole community collapse instantly in a heap, leaving current members only one option but to jump from a burning ship... Maybe, the systematic, controlled folding of the community is a better option...?
I also agreed with ex-Bethel about the counselling options available - the idea of going through a counsellor endorsed by community originally made my blood run cold. Except that it turns out that I know one of the counsellors - they've been practicing for donkey's years and have NEVER had anything to do with the community. They also have a reputation of being among Perth's best. I guess it's up to each of us to choose what to do. But please, if you are a current member, do remember that those of us who have left are likely to have suffered similar experiences to yourself, even though most of us have not, until this blog site at least, been able to have that conversation with you. Most importantly, please make attempts to connect with people OUTSIDE of Bethel, ex-members or not. I can't say how important it is/will be for you to have external reference points in order to understand your ordeal.
I don't think it was said in the IORG post, but I thought I heard that people could seek whichever professional help they choose, and not just the two that were mentioned.
The offer of counselling support to current and former members of Bethel is not limited to those consellors named in the previous post. Who people see for support is not the issue, the issue is that they are encouraged to use counselling services that are suitable to their own experiences. Bethel will pay for this cost or the cost of the gap after medical refunds, however, to be able to do so, individuals will need to convey their name and the name of the counselling service. This information is required only to facilitate payment and for subsequent accounting audits. This information will not be made public or disclosed for any other purpose. You may contact Bethel directly, one of the people listed on the IORG or by sending an email to ioc@live.co.uk Unfortunately,some may find this difficult to do but it is a necessary practical step.
Well, I'm not really sure what to say. It just seems so utterly bizarre to hear about these seemingly well-considered, organised steps towards clarifying the extent of allegations, moving towards justice for victims, the offering of support and fairly sturdy discussions about a way forward...
Yes, I agree, it does seem bizarre; and that is because we are so used to associating decisions and actions of Bethel with Kevin Horgan.
However, please realise and accept that Kevin is not in Bethel any more. His stranglehold is relinquished, he no longer holds the reigns, he has tripped on his own sword. People are having personal epiphanies about themselves and the way their lives have been affected by his control. Others are yet to come to that place. The iron-vice control he exerted on all of us (to varying degrees), including the other elders and the pastoral leaders, has cracked and is falling away from people's minds.
Now that the official statement is out, what practical steps are being taken to heal?
In the good old days!, we were taught that as Christians we should be the first to forgive, make approaches to others, etc.
Is this happening ?
Are the pastoral heads approaching past and present members and asking forgiveness for their part in this situation lasting for as long as it did?
Are the current and ex-Elders leading the way, by example, of this reconciliation process. Inspite of their own hurt and pain as we are all victims to varying degrees.
Are individuals, who now realise that they have been unjust to others, getting out of their self pity and restoring relationships?
Where is Kevin, Sue and Josephine Horgan and Clare Smith? Have they seen the error of their ways and confessing their sin?
in regard to the official response - oh dear - shades of the response of the Christian Brothers and the Church in regard to the sexual abuse issue. Read it carefully- it says in effect
I guess that I feel obligated to speak - as I wonder if some people are still too hurt and betrayed to speak out. Let us be open here even though it is hard to say it politely - but I will try. Daisy - you forget that we KNOW about Bethel we were there. So your comment about Kevin is just a side point - he was not at every group meeting. People in my own group abused, pressured and put me down - not Kevin. You as a member of Bethel are RESPONSIBLE for this - not just Kevin. Also are the IORG sayiing that MARCH was when they first heard there could be things wrong - in that case why did we all leave years ago and were not believed? Also again trying to keep polite - people who are in this new leadership group firstly were some of Kevins staunchest supporters and co- pressurers over the years, their own wives are among those who have taken being a woman to bizarre extremes and also were quite happy to be part of the "in crowd" at Bethel - so how can they now say they are going to bring everything out into the open? A controlling type response like they have put out is just another example of cult mentality - I again urge any person who is in Bethel to contact their family, their local health professional or any ex-member of Bethel and seek help - move away from your situation and find the joy that can be yours - I am not saying to leave and not talk to bethel members - remember that is just a behaviour that you all have done over the years . See members and exmembers as FRIENDS - if you are not brainwashed you can have all sorts of people to dinner . But dont just let a new group of top dogs start telling you what to do - and please ask people to speak up - things happened in my group that none of youwill know about - communication not secrecy - between former and current members will open your eyes
'The IORG is an independent interim group and has no connection or direction from the previous leadership'
Does any body else find this statement sickening?
For emphasis, let me repeat this statement again:
'The IORG is an independent interim group and has no connection or direction from the previous leadership'
I must admit that I am very impressed with the above fancy words used by Messrs (albeit spelt incorrectly) Crothers, Diamond and Walsh, and by Miss (I'm presuming) Gourlay.
I, however, since leaving Bethel have become an expert in governance, compliance, risk and regulations. (Ironically, I now enjoy a profession which supports speaking the truth.)
Shame on you Tony Walsh - you have just failed Independence 101 - and you (due to your professional qualifications) should have known better. You are actively deceiving people without independence training into believing that you, and your disgraceful lot, are so. I find this disgusting behaviour.
Greg Diamond, independent from Kevin Horgan and Frank Carr? How can Greg 'Yes man' Diamond who is married to Frank's daughter and who chose Kevin over his own sister Louise, possibly be considered independent? Rob Crothers, independent from Frank? Tony Walsh, independent from Kevin? Claire Gourlay (if I believe correctly) who has no memory of life prior to Bethel, independent?
You have got to be kidding?
Does anyone else find it ironic that the biggest 'yes men' in Bethel have suddenly become the redeeming saviours of the remaining Bethel people? Does anyone else find it ironic that the very people who encouraged and fostered the environment of control and abuse within Bethel are now the ones that say they are 'independently' acting to help the people they helped (implictly) to abuse?
Note that action OR inaction can lead to convictions of abuse.
Yes, I find it ironic too. The two new 'elders' were chosen by Kevin after Kevin called for nominations and suggestions from anyone - but blind Freddy could have seen who would get picked. After Kevin left they naturally fell into the IORG team. There are some people still in Bethel who think that others, who have been less formed and influenced by Kevin, and who do not have a history of actively supporting his moral manipulations and social sanctions, should be in those positions.
I should say, however, that IORG do seem to be doing a good job of it. Tony is showing his true colours - he is honestly and tirelessly working to do what needs to be done, including taking advice from external professionals.
Yes Lovingmylife now, the bulllying was learned by many people, and it became an accepted practice, perfected by Kevin.
With your second comment, are you saying that every one of us here who was in Bethel loved the whole bossiness thing or just the people who are still there? Because if you mean the former, then by that reasoning you loved it too and so did I. But, in fact, in my time in Bethel I hated it. If you mean just the people who are still there, then after how many years exactly is one considered to be in love with the bossiness? I just don't think you can paint every one here or those in Bethel with the same broad brush.
I am a member of the Perth Catholic community and not ( and never have been) of Bethel. I am concerned both for the wider reputation of the Church and the welfare of individuals who have indicated some form of abuse has occured at Bethel under the auspicies of Bethel as a Catholic endorsed Community.
I note the the IOC confirms it is an independent interim group set up by Bethel "that shares the moral outrage of others... and who abhor and condemn the alleged misconduct that has occured". Further I note with alarm the IOC acknowledgement that "a lot of people have experienced - and continue to experience - pain as a result of their experiences with the Bethel Community and its past leadership." These wronged people now more than ever deserve the compassion, support and objective guidance of the wider Perth catholic community. The blog reveals a level of frustration with the official Church response to date.I confirm I am not connected with this Catholic Church intervention and would very much like to see it escalate.
The IOC may be seriously conflicted in its intended role and should seek to answer with haste on this blog the objective questions:
1.Which of you are an Elder or in charge now or in the past of any Group within Bethel. If so for how long in and in what positions ( i.e. what is/was your role in what appears to be the development a flawed culture).
2. How long have each of you been a member of Bethel.
3. Have any of you received money or material goods from Bethel as a form of material support in the past (that is worth more than say $1,000) and if so what is the value, nature and extent of that support . e.g. for holidays, property improvements, motor vehicle purchase etc.
4. Are any of you in leadership positions within the institutions or organisations of the catholic community and /or have responsibility in part for the guidance of children outside of Bethel
5. Have each or any of you by your actions or words contributed to the alleged Bethel culture that promoted:
(a ) Women are to be subservient to men.
(b) That the details or nature of sexual relations beween husband and wife should be shared with other Bethel members.
Have any of the leaders or their partners:
(a) Participated in, facilitated or encouraged, in the role as leader, members in your group, to undertake surgery or other forms of cosmetic enhancements to increase their appeal to their partner.
(b) Have any family relationship to any of the recently resigned leaders of the Community.
(c) Have any of female partners of the IOC members allowed themselves to be or were subjected to what a reasonable non community person would consider to be inappropriate sexual advances/demonstrations ( see for example the recent Buswell actions community response) i.e. if the behaviour were described in the West Australian would it give scandal.
The IOC should be aware that some members of the Bethel community appear to be severly traumatised by the experiences within Bethel. These injured and their vulnerability, especially that of the children of Bethel, are now the concern of the wider catholic community in particular and it is incumbent on the IOC to act with great transparency and care -our reaction to what happens from here on, in the light of what has emerged is unlikely to be muted.
Down the road of increased scrutiny of the new leaders of Bethel. Not much has been known about how the previous leaders have been selected and the fruits of that closed process are troubleing. I expect the answers to these questions will need to be uncontroversial when viewed as a whole for the leaders to be proper candidates to lead i.e. necessary but not sufficient conditions for suitability od Bethel leadership.
A suggestion as to the membership of the IOC was put to a meeting open to all adults within Bethel. This suggestion was endoresed by those present on the night. This group, with additional members, was further endorsed recently to continue this process. The key word for this group is "Interim". It is anticipated that by the end of July, Bethel will be in a position to hold elections for new leaders. Women will be eligible to be elected to these positions. It has been suggested that similar elections be held every 3 - 5 years. The exact details of this process are yet to be finalised. Another suggestion being closely looked at is that of forming a Board (similar to a school Board) including representation of person/s not in Bethel, to ensure compliance with all coorporate requirements. An independant grieviance person / group is also being considered.
Thank you for this response. I would however appreciate it if the "Interim" leadership would answer the questions about qualifications I have raised. I can see from your response that the adults have elected the IOC membership. In the light of allegations of brainwashing ( compromising judgement), lack of objectivity ( particularly of impaired members and leaders) their remain credibility questions as to the election to Bethel leadership interim or not. Accordingly, it seems reasonable, that the interim leaders acting in good faith should not have offered themselves up for the position if they were unable or unwilling to respond uncontroversially as to their qualifications vis a vis the questions I have raised. Retrospectively, they should resign if on balance their positions are compromised. In my view this is particularly so at a very sensitive and crucial time which involves scrutiny of the Bethel response and its capacity to continue. This scrunity comes from the church, police, newspapers, concerned catholics and the media.
John Citizen's requests for information resolve simply to, "Are you independent?" This is not unreasonable especially when you consider that many claims relate to Bethellians being subjected to immense pressure to agree with, and submit to, their leaders.
It was a fact that you proved your love for God by your submission to your spiritual director. I was strongly encouraged by my heads not to attend my sister's wedding because it wasn't in a church and because - oh dear! I might miss some stupid youth group thingo (fortunately my memory is not clear on the details ) Luckily for my desperate desire to be pleasing and get approval I managed to get back to the cluster in time...
All the ironing I did for my different heads for free just to prove my love for God- fortunately now I have a cleaner 2 days a week and so my ironing skills are no longer needed as proof of my faith!
Yes Kevin used the tithing system to keep tabs on who his control was working on and who it wasn't.. but we never found out about what he did with his money did we!
Thank you Hg - hopefully others will take up the cause for scrutiny of the IOC members past credentials to remain on as Bethel leaders - interim or not. I wish to make it very clear that on "balance of probabilities" what the existing aggrieved Bethel members are alleging carry a weighty inditement of the community as it was. The allegations may become established facts and then things get a lot more sticky - its dangerous to bank on the facts not coming out. The IOC, in my view remain innocent ( but on careful watch) till facts ( if indeed there are some) emerge to contrary.
Innocent or not I still wish to make the follwing points:
Dear IOC members- you took the moral high ground by claiming independence and then promising openess and frankness in your first fomal input to this blog. Please IOC - you are Bethelians deserving of compassion like all the others. You may well be both victims and perpetrators of what your own people are now calling "cult" behaviour. The catholic tradition is to forgive those who "confess their sins" or at least show a change of heart. Think of your position in the wider community and that of your family when the details become more public than this blog - the more you are associated with a shameful past the worse it is for them too. Some of the allegations that go to getting others to do unpaid work for no fair cause but the personal benefit of Leaders, raising funds under false pretences and undisclosed ( and perhaps undeserved) payments to Bethel leaders ( from the resources of those "encouraged" to thithe) are simply scandalous to outsiders. You may not realise this because of your compromised perspective built over many years locked in the Bethel way of life. Further, the wider community has now been made aware that Bethel Groups were segregated and cut off from information flows within groups - flows likely to inform all about leadership behaviour that perhaps was not acceptable in any situation and so outrageous that even Bethelites ( if they new) would stand up in vigorous protest much earlier. I believe, the longer the IOC associate themselves with interim leadership without disclosing "fully and frankly" if you had a controversial role in Bethel culture ( likely I mean to be controversial in the view of the wider community) the more you cement your position as supporters (or even more serious - enablers) of the unacceptable past leadership practices i.e. 'tared with the same brush". You leave yourselves open to the sustained and wide ranging criticism of many just because you are the Bethel leadership remnants ( i.e. possibly wrong place at the right time).
If you are unwilling to answer the questions then may I encourage you to take a step back and promptly facilitate a credible and truly "independent" outside leadership to take charge.
Best wishes to you all and I remain saddened that what started out as perhaps a sound endeavour, that bought happiness and fullfilment ( albeit temporary) to many has now reachead a low ebb and appears to have damaged many. The question remains - was Bethel ever built on solid ground or were the foundations ( its leaders and covenants) subject in this case to the unfettered corrosion of human frailty.
IORG - I agree you cannot be objective, simply because of your past relationship with KH.
Have any of you sinned or had a secret in your past?
Were you asked to leave the community? If you can turn your back on a man like KH who has obviously helped many of you in the past....what a fickle bunch...I'm glad I'm not relying on your friendship.
Have the "victims" been comprehensively questioned or has their view just been accepted as the truth? Is it possible, that they may not be disclosing all details of their involvement? An externel, objective (not a Bethel member) proffessional could conduct such an interview.
Is that the done thing these days in the Christian world to dump someone who has wronged right at the time when they may in fact need the most help?! I would not have thought the majority of Christians would agree with you.
Batman... to say to "dump" someone at the time we need him most(how I interpret your words) I dont think anyone has dumped him but in fact he dumped himself due to power getting the better of him and for overstepping the boundaries severely in regards to him holding a high postion of authority.
To infact ask a Christian (or anyone for that matter) whether they are doing something against their religion (or belief) and to assume other Christians (or society) would not be on their side for standing up against an egotistic person who has in fact pretty much used God's name to instill his own beliefs into other peoples minds, stolen money from the poor who were "serving god" (no ...wait he though HE was god) so he could buy expensive cars when this money should have been used by the pensioners who's pockets it came from. to help get their families by or put food on thier tables rather than being spent on overseas holidays etc at thier expense.
Im shocked you could even think that they have duped KH, when he alone duped himself!!!
I understand your meaning of the IORG and agree with John Citizen that though they seek to hold stablitiy, they themselves are not independent of the Bethel culture and may infact be bias or blinded by some aspects of the situatiuon at hand.
Instead of questioning why so many (hundreds maybe) people are FINALLY standing up and voicing thier anger at being taken for a ride by someone who for 25 years or more blatantly made people serve him and him alone...why dont you look at what so many claim he had done...see how many peoles lives he has affected...
Until you have been a victim in some way or another you have no way of understanding what so many of us have dealt with or are still dealing with or for the most recent times the people who have just realised what has been happening and are so broken that their lives feel lost?!
Comments
I urge any one left in Bethel ( that is if they have been "allowed" to read this website) to leave - after a few weeks you will wonder why you did not see the psychological, financial, and physical abuse and humiliation- ask for help from ex-members - we know exactly what you are going through.
Hello everyone. The Interim Operations Review Group (IORG) has been set up by Bethel Community (Bethel) to try and navigate a way forward for all members since the resignations of Messrs Horgan and Carr and, more recently, Dudley from all leadership positions and directorships.
We are not mouthpieces of Mssrs Horgan, Carr or Dudley. We take no direction from them. The IORG is an independent interim group and has no connection or direction from the previous leadership
The members of the IORG share the moral outrage of others who have been contributing to this blog and of fellow members of Bethel who have spoken to us. We abhor and condemn the alleged misconduct which has occurred as being totally unacceptable for any Christian or, for that matter, in the wider community. We acknowledge that a lot of people have experienced - and continue to experience – pain as a result of their experiences with the Bethel Community and its past leadership.
A lot has been said on this blog and the IORG would like to join the conversation. But with the understanding that while for legal reasons we need to be careful about what we write, we will still endeavour to be as open and frank as possible. We do not wish to potentially prejudice other investigations by any comments which might appear on this blog.
We wish to clarify for participants that this blog was not set up by Bethel. The IORG is unaware of who set it up, or who is running it. However, we hope that people who use it find it to be of value as part of the healing process.
It is not the intent of the IORG to debate issues on this blog, or to convince someone about a point of view - rather it is to provide information for others to take or leave as they wish.
Further posts should be added by the IORG as more information comes to light. We hope to provide more information about what is happening within Bethel as a response to recent events, and about some external groups that the Community has been interacting with to help deal with these matters.
ACTION – COUNELLING AND SUPPORT
Since details of the unacceptable behaviour first became known to us in mid March 2008, the IORG has acted as quickly as possible.
We have taken a number of measures to support those who may have suffered, including:
· Consulted with a psychiatrist to get recommendations on suitably qualified, independent counselors to provide help to members and ex members of Bethel who have suffered.
· Arranged for Christobel Charmarette, a clinical psychologist on the Anglican Professional Standards Committee with extensive experience in these sorts of issues, to address women members of Bethel.
· Made available to members and ex members of Bethel counseling support and services at no charge. Bethel will cover the cost of counseling sessions (i.e., pay the difference, or gap between any medical insurance refund and the fees) for members or ex members. Ms Charmarette can be contacted on Tel: 9335 9411. An alternate contact is, Mr. John Manners (Tel: 9474 1711), a clinical psychologist with experience in the area of sexual boundaries in religious groups. The privacy of anybody requiring counseling under this arrangement will be protected. No personal information from any counseling session will be provided to Bethel.
· IORG has also been cooperating with Police and actively providing information. If you wish to report any information related to these alleged matters you are urged to call the WA Police Sexual Assault Squad, Detective Nat Bennison on Tel: 9223 3425 and quote Reference Number: 270308 1500 11133.
· Alternatively, contact the Sexual Assault Resource Centre – this is a free 24/7 emergency service. Crisis line: 9340 1828, counseling line – 9340 1899.
OTHER ACTION
The events within Bethel which have come to light have sparked a series of actions, including the Interim Operations Review Group being set up. The goal of the IORG has been to provide structure and transparency to facilitate dealing with immediate issues, interim operations and the required changes within Bethel. We are committed to doing the right thing by the victims of alleged misconduct, whether they be current or former members of Bethel. We are taking professional external advice to help us do that.
The IORG has been working towards putting in place a new governance structure for Bethel Community, including establishing a Misconduct Grievances Committee with both men and women as members.
We have sought legal advice and advice from corporate governance experts on this, as well as on restructuring the Constitution of Bethel – including looking at the establishment of a Board, separate from the Pastoral team. In fact we are reviewing most of the aspects of what Bethel does and does not do, in terms of mission, approach and activities.
A properly qualified independent accountancy group has also been engaged to audit Bethel’s financial records and reporting procedures.
THE IORG – WHO WE ARE
When the incidents involving some at Bethel came to light in mid March 2008 and after Messrs Horgan and Carr had resigned, the Interim Operations Review Group was formed. The initial members of the IORG were:
- Rob Crothers (Chair)
- Claire Gourlay
- Greg Diamond
- Tony Walsh
The IORG has subsequently askedKathryn Probert to join and she has accepted.
Following suggestions at a recent meeting of the adult members of Bethel, the IORG will consider at its next meeting adding a further two people in order to give a broader representation of members.
As you would be aware, identities can easily be forged on the internet. This information is presented here simply to add authenticity to posts on this blog from IORG. These people can be easily contacted should you wish to verify this. Alternatively, please send an email toioc@live.co.uk with a contact number and one of these members will contact you simply to verify these details.
A SNAPSHOT OF HOW RECENT EVENTS UNFOLDED
As part of our endeavour to be transparent, this post presents the following snapshot of recent events. Responses to these events may form the part of a future blog. As we have previously stated, the IORG need to be mindful of what is written for legal reasons.
Please note that these events are not presented in chronological order. Rather, in the order in which they became known to members of the IORG. Although some knowledge may have existed previously, their significance only became apparent with other information coming to light.
Events during February / March / April2008 period
- A married couple within Bethel informed Peter Dudley of alleged misconduct
- Peter Dudley confronted Kevin Horgan and Frank Carr on the alleged misconduct.
- Frank Carr, Peter Dudley and married couple met.
- Kevin Horgan, Frank Carr and Peter Dudley met again.
- Married couple met with Bishop Sproxton.
- Peter Dudley met with Bishop Sproxton and the Bishop requested a meeting with Kevin Horgan and Frank Carr.
- Kevin Horgan, Sue Horgan, Frank Carr and Fr Chris Ross met with Bishop Sproxton. Peter Dudley was invited to the meeting by the Bishop. New leaders appointed eight days previously, Tony Walsh and Greg Diamond, were not invited despite protests.
- Bishop Sproxton requested Kevin Horgan to stand down. It was suggested an Open Forum be held at the next meeting of the adult members of Bethel.
- First leader’s meeting with Tony Walsh, Greg Diamond, Frank Carr and Peter Dudley all attending was held. Frank Carr advised of a second allegation of misconduct.
- Leaders agreed that Kevin Horgan stand down.
- Open Forum held at a meeting of adult members of Bethel.
- Further allegations of misconduct came to light in the day of the Open Forum.
- Kevin Horgan and Sue Horgan resigned from all aspects of Bethel.
- Frank Carr resigned as a leader and director of Bethel.
- Special meeting held of Pastoral advisors.
- Special meeting held of the adult members of Bethel to present interim structure and review od Bethel by IORG.
- Information provided that up to 8 current members and up to 8 former members have been the victims of alleged misconduct.
- Interim Operations Review Group begins meeting.
- Counseling information provided to Bethel members.
- Contact information for WA Police provided to Bethel members.
- Further investigation revealed that issues of this nature were raised previously .
- Peter Dudley resigned as a leader and director of Bethel.
- Full disclosure of events presented at a meeting of the adult members of Bethel.
NEXT STEPS
The IORG will continue to progress the matters as outlined above.
A fundamental objective is to continue to be totally transparent with the members of Bethel – the truth needs to be completely out in the open for all to see if we are to promote healing and true reconciliation within Bethel.
The IORG will also continue to actively provide whatever information is required in order for those who have been involved in these totally unacceptable behaviours to be dealt with fully - under the law and within the normally acceptable moral standards of the Christian community, whatever form those just consequences might take with the individuals involved.
All this with an apparently strong commitment to "due diligence" e.g. the engagement of independent, non-Bethel persons. It just sounds absolutely extraordinary! Where in the world did that kind of thinking come from?!
I have to agree with ex-Bethel's scepticism about the cult-hangover mentality of members and the IORG. Whilst it sounds impressively and even genuinely committed to thorough and independent management of the situation - it's simply not possible to have people who have spent HALF THEIR LIVES OR MORE in a cult to then turn around and be objective about experiences.The IORG has stated that they are getting a lot of independent advice and, well, just maybe this scenario is better than having the whole community collapse instantly in a heap, leaving current members only one option but to jump from a burning ship... Maybe, the systematic, controlled folding of the community is a better option...?
I also agreed with ex-Bethel about the counselling options available - the idea of going through a counsellor endorsed by community originally made my blood run cold. Except that it turns out that I know one of the counsellors -
they've been practicing for donkey's years and have NEVER had anything to do with the community. They also have a reputation of being among Perth's best. I guess it's up to each of us to choose what to do. But please, if you are a current member, do remember that those of us who have left are likely to have suffered similar experiences to yourself, even though most of us have not, until this blog site at least, been able to have that conversation with you. Most importantly, please make attempts to connect with people OUTSIDE of Bethel, ex-members or not. I can't say how important it is/will be for you to have external reference points in order to understand your ordeal.
Yes, I agree, it does seem bizarre; and that is because we are so used to associating decisions and actions of Bethel with Kevin Horgan.
However, please realise and accept that Kevin is not in Bethel any more. His stranglehold is relinquished, he no longer holds the reigns, he has tripped on his own sword. People are having personal epiphanies about themselves and the way their lives have been affected by his control. Others are yet to come to that place. The iron-vice control he exerted on all of us (to varying degrees), including the other elders and the pastoral leaders, has cracked and is falling away from people's minds.
It is a watershed time for Bethel.
Daisy - you forget that we KNOW about Bethel we were there. So your comment about Kevin is just a side point - he was not at every group meeting. People in my own group abused, pressured and put me down - not Kevin. You as a member of Bethel are RESPONSIBLE for this - not just Kevin.
Also are the IORG sayiing that MARCH was when they first heard there could be things wrong - in that case why did we all leave years ago and were not believed?
Also again trying to keep polite - people who are in this new leadership group firstly were some of Kevins staunchest supporters and co- pressurers over the years, their own wives are among those who have taken being a woman to bizarre extremes and also were quite happy to be part of the "in crowd" at Bethel - so how can they now say they are going to bring everything out into the open?
A controlling type response like they have put out is just another example of cult mentality - I again urge any person who is in Bethel to contact their family, their local health professional or any ex-member of Bethel and seek help - move away from your situation and find the joy that can be yours - I am not saying to leave and not talk to bethel members - remember that is just a behaviour that you all have done over the years . See members and exmembers as FRIENDS - if you are not brainwashed you can have all sorts of people to dinner .
But dont just let a new group of top dogs start telling you what to do - and please ask people to speak up - things happened in my group that none of youwill know about - communication not secrecy - between former and current members will open your eyes
'The IORG is an independent interim group and has no connection or direction from the previous leadership'
Does any body else find this statement sickening?
For emphasis, let me repeat this statement again:
'The IORG is an independent interim group and has no connection or direction from the previous leadership'
I must admit that I am very impressed with the above fancy words used by Messrs (albeit spelt incorrectly) Crothers, Diamond and Walsh, and by Miss (I'm presuming) Gourlay.
I, however, since leaving Bethel have become an expert in governance, compliance, risk and regulations. (Ironically, I now enjoy a profession which supports speaking the truth.)
Shame on you Tony Walsh - you have just failed Independence 101 - and you (due to your professional qualifications) should have known better. You are actively deceiving people without independence training into believing that you, and your disgraceful lot, are so. I find this disgusting behaviour.
Greg Diamond, independent from Kevin Horgan and Frank Carr? How can Greg 'Yes man' Diamond who is married to Frank's daughter and who chose Kevin over his own sister Louise, possibly be considered independent? Rob Crothers, independent from Frank? Tony Walsh, independent from Kevin? Claire Gourlay (if I believe correctly) who has no memory of life prior to Bethel, independent?
You have got to be kidding?
Does anyone else find it ironic that the biggest 'yes men' in Bethel have suddenly become the redeeming saviours of the remaining Bethel people? Does anyone else find it ironic that the very people who encouraged and fostered the environment of control and abuse within Bethel are now the ones that say they are 'independently' acting to help the people they helped (implictly) to abuse?
Note that action OR inaction can lead to convictions of abuse.
Please, enough is enough.
I should say, however, that IORG do seem to be doing a good job of it. Tony is showing his true colours - he is honestly and tirelessly working to do what needs to be done, including taking advice from external professionals.
Yes Lovingmylife now, the bulllying was learned by many people, and it became an accepted practice, perfected by Kevin.
With your second comment, are you saying that every one of us here who was in Bethel loved the whole bossiness thing or just the people who are still there? Because if you mean the former, then by that reasoning you loved it too and so did I. But, in fact, in my time in Bethel I hated it. If you mean just the people who are still there, then after how many years exactly is one considered to be in love with the bossiness? I just don't think you can paint every one here or those in Bethel with the same broad brush.
Thank you Hg - hopefully others will take up the cause for scrutiny of the IOC members past credentials to remain on as Bethel leaders - interim or not. I wish to make it very clear that on "balance of probabilities" what the existing aggrieved Bethel members are alleging carry a weighty inditement of the community as it was. The allegations may become established facts and then things get a lot more sticky - its dangerous to bank on the facts not coming out. The IOC, in my view remain innocent ( but on careful watch) till facts ( if indeed there are some) emerge to contrary.
Innocent or not I still wish to make the follwing points:
Dear IOC members- you took the moral high ground by claiming independence and then promising openess and frankness in your first fomal input to this blog. Please IOC - you are Bethelians deserving of compassion like all the others. You may well be both victims and perpetrators of what your own people are now calling "cult" behaviour. The catholic tradition is to forgive those who "confess their sins" or at least show a change of heart. Think of your position in the wider community and that of your family when the details become more public than this blog - the more you are associated with a shameful past the worse it is for them too. Some of the allegations that go to getting others to do unpaid work for no fair cause but the personal benefit of Leaders, raising funds under false pretences and undisclosed ( and perhaps undeserved) payments to Bethel leaders ( from the resources of those "encouraged" to thithe) are simply scandalous to outsiders. You may not realise this because of your compromised perspective built over many years locked in the Bethel way of life. Further, the wider community has now been made aware that Bethel Groups were segregated and cut off from information flows within groups - flows likely to inform all about leadership behaviour that perhaps was not acceptable in any situation and so outrageous that even Bethelites ( if they new) would stand up in vigorous protest much earlier. I believe, the longer the IOC associate themselves with interim leadership without disclosing "fully and frankly" if you had a controversial role in Bethel culture ( likely I mean to be controversial in the view of the wider community) the more you cement your position as supporters (or even more serious - enablers) of the unacceptable past leadership practices i.e. 'tared with the same brush". You leave yourselves open to the sustained and wide ranging criticism of many just because you are the Bethel leadership remnants ( i.e. possibly wrong place at the right time).
If you are unwilling to answer the questions then may I encourage you to take a step back and promptly facilitate a credible and truly "independent" outside leadership to take charge.
Best wishes to you all and I remain saddened that what started out as perhaps a sound endeavour, that bought happiness and fullfilment ( albeit temporary) to many has now reachead a low ebb and appears to have damaged many. The question remains - was Bethel ever built on solid ground or were the foundations ( its leaders and covenants) subject in this case to the unfettered corrosion of human frailty.
IORG - I agree you cannot be objective, simply because of your past relationship with KH.
Have any of you sinned or had a secret in your past?
Were you asked to leave the community? If you can turn your back on a man like KH who has obviously helped many of you in the past....what a fickle bunch...I'm glad I'm not relying on your friendship.
Have the "victims" been comprehensively questioned or has their view just been accepted as the truth? Is it possible, that they may not be disclosing all details of their involvement? An externel, objective (not a Bethel member) proffessional could conduct such an interview.
Is that the done thing these days in the Christian world to dump someone who has wronged right at the time when they may in fact need the most help?! I would not have thought the majority of Christians would agree with you.
Batman... to say to "dump" someone at the time we need him most(how I interpret your words) I dont think anyone has dumped him but in fact he dumped himself due to power getting the better of him and for overstepping the boundaries severely in regards to him holding a high postion of authority.
To infact ask a Christian (or anyone for that matter) whether they are doing something against their religion (or belief) and to assume other Christians (or society) would not be on their side for standing up against an egotistic person who has in fact pretty much used God's name to instill his own beliefs into other peoples minds, stolen money from the poor who were "serving god" (no ...wait he though HE was god) so he could buy expensive cars when this money should have been used by the pensioners who's pockets it came from. to help get their families by or put food on thier tables rather than being spent on overseas holidays etc at thier expense.
Im shocked you could even think that they have duped KH, when he alone duped himself!!!
I understand your meaning of the IORG and agree with John Citizen that though they seek to hold stablitiy, they themselves are not independent of the Bethel culture and may infact be bias or blinded by some aspects of the situatiuon at hand.
Instead of questioning why so many (hundreds maybe) people are FINALLY standing up and voicing thier anger at being taken for a ride by someone who for 25 years or more blatantly made people serve him and him alone...why dont you look at what so many claim he had done...see how many peoles lives he has affected...
Until you have been a victim in some way or another you have no way of understanding what so many of us have dealt with or are still dealing with or for the most recent times the people who have just realised what has been happening and are so broken that their lives feel lost?!