Summary Ryan George grew up in the Independent Fundamentalist Baptist (IFB) church and experienced both abuse and healing within the church. He shares his story of growing up in a conservative and abusive environment, where rules and regulations were enforced to an extreme degree. Ryan's father, a pastor in the IFB network, was later exposed as a serial sexual predator. Ryan reflects on the spiritual and physical abuse he endured, as well as the ways in which the IFB culture justified and perpetuated this abuse. It was through therapy, healthy relationships, and experiencing true love and community that Ryan began to recognize the abuse he had endured and find healing. Ryan George shares his journey of healing and redemption after experiencing spiritual abuse and the harm caused by his father. Despite the pain and trauma, Ryan found healing in the church through authentic relationships and a personal connection with God. He emphasizes the importance of finding safe spaces and supportive communities where individuals can share their hurts and doubts. Ryan's story highlights the power of redefining one's understanding of God and finding healing in unexpected places. Takeaways The IFB culture enforced extreme rules and regulations, leading to spiritual and physical abuse. Through therapy, healthy relationships, and experiencing true love and community, Ryan began to recognize the abuse he had endured and find healing.  Authentic relationships and supportive communities in the church can play a crucial role in the healing process. Redefining one's understanding of God and finding a personal connection can lead to healing and transformation. Safe spaces where individuals can share their hurts and doubts are essential for healing and growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Hurt and Healed by the Church 07:37 The Dark Side of the IFB: Serial Sexual Predators 26:59 Introduction and Background 37:07 Navigating the Church After Spiritual Abuse 45:02 Finding Healing and Redemption in the Church Register for Faith and Politics for the Rest of Us Check out our website for merch, educational materials, and how to join our community! If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here! Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  Subscribe On YouTube The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center. We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices