Crimes of the Cross

Book Review

A harrowing story of the web of deceit across the institutions we have and still want to hold in high regard. At the very intersection of religion we are met with political agendas, misogynistic motivations, abuse of power and immorality - the very houses that were built to shelter & support a congregation through love and at times the coming together for those in need, we are all too often hearing has been reduced to a haven to do harm. Most victims of abuse, coercive control, sexual manipulation and its assault, will tell you that the octopus arms of abuse can cleverly spread a wide net of protection and denial that runs both high & deep.

The network that Steve fondly terms ‘minions’ will often see many players/actors position themselves to control the narrative, to close in around their target, to change the script, to create chaos and or reduce their victims to accusations of liar, being petty or finding some dirt to redirect focus away from any accountability and blame. Anne has done her research well and recounted the deception under its holy disguise, retelling the horror & trickery that occurs when abuse is taking place. The resilience that is required to recover and rebuild a type of life after abuse is immense and for those ‘lost boys’ who Steve honors through sharing his years of pain, the hope & compassion by us all should be that they be given support to aim for self worth and a sense of security and safety.

It's past the time we stop denying what is right in front of us, its time to focus on rebuilding the cultures that have eaten into the very fabric of society today, it has to be now; through education & the history too many have tried to bury that real change can happen & reestablish a good core. Let this book be a teaching to those with the power and positions to effect real change: that we need to stop ‘nailing victims to the ‘crimes of the cross’ that is no longer theirs to bear.