The LDS Church and Child Sexual Abuse: A Complex Issue

Numerous reports over the past decades have highlighted disturbing patterns of abuse within the LDS Church. The Associated Press revealed that the LDS Church’s abuse helpline, originally created to assist victims, was often used to shield the institution from legal liability. Additionally, The Salt Lake Tribune reported incidents where bishops did not report confessions of abuse, prioritizing internal processes over legal obligations .

This institutional failure has led to numerous lawsuits across the United States. In states like West Virginia, lawsuits claim church officials knew about abuse and failed to act.

Historical and Legal Challenges 

The LDS Church operates under a doctrine that encourages resolving issues internally, sometimes at the expense of justice. This creates a challenging environment for victims who seek external legal action. Many survivors have found themselves up against powerful legal teams and confidentiality agreements that suppress the truth.

Legal barriers such as statutes of limitations have further complicated the path to justice. However, many states have revised these laws, giving survivors another chance to come forward.

Church Policies and Their Effectiveness 

The LDS Church has outlined procedures for reporting abuse through its official handbook and has established hotlines for clergy. However, critics argue that these measures often serve to protect the church more than the victims.

Vice News uncovered cases where church lawyers allegedly advised leaders not to report abuse, instead routing information through legal channels to minimize liability (source).

While some policy changes have been implemented, such as background checks for volunteers and abuse prevention training, survivors and advocates argue that these are not enough to address systemic issues.

Survivor Stories and the Emotional Toll Survivors often carry the trauma of abuse for decades. Some feel silenced or shunned by their communities for speaking out against religious authority. The emotional and psychological damage caused by institutional betrayal can be long-lasting.

According to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, child abuse survivors are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders (source). Creating a supportive environment is crucial for recovery.

Legal Support and Justice Through TheJusticeNow 

TheJusticeNow specializes in supporting survivors of institutional abuse, including LDS church abuse. Our team understands the emotional and legal complexity of these cases and is committed to helping survivors navigate the process.

We provide:

• Confidential case evaluations
• Guidance on filing claims
• Support through every step of the legal process

If you or someone you know has faced abuse within the LDS Church, apply for a free, confidential case evaluation. We’re here to help you find justice and healing.

Call for Transparency and Accountability 

The time has come for greater transparency from religious institutions. The LDS Church must acknowledge past failings and commit to concrete action to prevent future abuse. This includes:

• Making abuse reports mandatory and externally reviewed
• Publicly acknowledging past abuse cases
• Providing real support to victims without fear of retaliation

Conclusion: Standing with Survivors 

The issue of LDS church abuse is not just about individual wrongdoings—it’s about systems that failed to protect the most vulnerable. At TheJusticeNow, we believe every survivor deserves justice, respect, and the right to be heard.

If you believe you qualify for legal support related to LDS Church abuse, apply for a free case evaluation today at theTheJusticeNow.com/lds-abuse-justice.

Disclaimer: This blog discusses sensitive topics including child sexual abuse. If you are struggling or need immediate emotional support, contact RAINN or the National Child Abuse Hotline.