Vallotton acknowledged that “religious leaders should be under stricter judgment” but noted that Peter “became the head of the church” despite his failings.
Kris Vallotton: Protecting Victims ‘Has Always Been My Priority’
In his Feb. 22 Facebook post, Kris Vallotton said his message from the previous Sunday was about “the need for accountability, transparency, and true repentance from leaders, especially in the Church.” His intention, he said, was “to share the critical need and call for greater levels of health, purity, and accountability for leaders.”
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Now, however, he realizes “that I did not express compassion for, or address the need for the protection of, all victims of abuse and sexual misconduct that I see in and out of the Church. This is and has always been my priority in these situations.”
Vallotton wrote, “My omission has hurt many in the Body who are processing hurt concerning the heartbreaking situations unfolding at IHOPKC and elsewhere. This is my mistake and I am deeply sorry. I ask for forgiveness [from] the people whom I have hurt with this omission.”
The Bethel leader emphasized “it is never okay for leaders to groom or manipulate people. Clergy sexual misconduct must be brought into the light and dealt with appropriately.”
In the comments section, many of Vallotton’s Facebook followers thanked him for his integrity and transparency.
