What Does it Mean to be Broken and Beloved?
A few months ago, I had the privilege of virtually attending Broken to Beloved’s faith-based Gathering, featuring founder Brian Lee and guest speaker Aundi Kolber. This was my first introduction to Brian’s work through Broken to Beloved, but it certainly won’t be my last time engaging with this organization.
As a survivor of spiritual abuse and religious trauma, Brian understands the pain, trauma, relational brokenness, and desire for healing many survivors feel. He understands what it means to be broken by spiritual abuse and trauma, yet also come to the realization of his identity as God’s beloved (hence the name). Brian’s heart for providing a safe space for healing and wholeness is visible in the work he does, and his passion is contagious.
Here are a few things I appreciate about Brian and the Broken to Beloved organization:
Connections to Fellow Survivors – Even though Broken to Beloved is a young organization, there are tons of opportunities to connect with and hear from fellow spiritual abuse survivors. Brian offers trauma-informed coaching for survivors looking to their future, a monthly book club (including live calls with authors!), cohorts for survivors, a podcast, and a yearly Summit held in January. September 2024 marked his first live event, a two-day gathering for survivors, leaders, and others committed to trauma recovery and healing for spiritual abuse survivors.
Accessibility – As a non-profit, Broken to Beloved seeks to make its resources as low-cost as possible, funded by generous donors. Brian, coming from a ministry background, recognizes that many who have left employment in religious contexts often don’t have many extra financial resources or good insurance to help cover extensive therapy. This recognition has compelled Brian to make resources free or low-cost, mindful to not create further barriers to healing for survivors.
Helping Survivors & their Supporters – I had the privilege of speaking with Brian after virtually attending September’s gathering. His passion is not only for survivors but for those supporting them too. If you haven’t walked through spiritual abuse but know someone who has, I can’t recommend Broken to Beloved enough. You will learn so much about how to support a survivor as they walk through the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual impacts of spiritual abuse and religious trauma. During my conversation with Brian, I asked him, “How do survivors want to be supported?” His advice? Believe them, and communicate that you believe them: “I’m so sorry that happened to you, and I believe you” is a great place to start. Don’t try to fix their situation or give unsolicited advice. Instead, listen, believe, and support them as they ask.
I’m excited to cheer on Brian as Broken to Beloved continues to grow, and highly recommend the plethora of resources he offers to survivors and their supporters alike. Check out Broken to Beloved on their website, Facebook, and Instagram!
