Letter to UpCyberDown

March 11, 2003

I am encouraged to see UpCyberDown publishing the honest letters of many members [on We Hear You page]. A free dialogue like this will be so important to achieving any fundamental change. Perhaps you will publish a letter from a "critic" as well.

My name is Dave Anderson and I have been closely following the movement's activities for a number of years. I am also one of many non-members who have created websites about the church. While I applaud the current climate of openness and change starting within many ICC congregations, I'd also like to challenge the organization to open itself to the capable help of many willing people on the outside.

In your surrounding community are many individuals -- including health professionals, clergy, and yes, critics -- who have much experience at helping people recover from abusive religions experiences. As more congregations begin the challenging process of reform, many, many people in your fellowship will need exactly this kind of help. In addition, entire congregations could benefit from outside consultation as they pursue change. The good news is that this kind of help is available, merely for the asking. Please do not hesitate to ask. I know many people who would love to assist you.

Insularity led to many of the past problems of this movement and caused them to go unaddressed for too long. This time around, please don't let insularity hamper your attempts to be the kind of church God wants you to be.

sincerely,

Dave Anderson
http://rightcyberup.org

[Note: One-time Boston Movement evangelist Kyle Degge released an impassioned open letter March 13, 2003 offering to help the ICC heal and reform, and calling for other Christians to do the same.]