Let There Be Light is a 30-minute documentary on Youtube where Matt & Beth Redman share their experiences at Soul Survivor under the leadership of Mike Pilavachi. ‘Let There Be Light’ explores the pattern of abuse experienced over a period of four decades under the leadership of Mike Pilavachi in the UK church. A Church of England safeguarding report substantiated claims of emotional, physical, and spiritual harm. This documentary explores the story of what happened – and lessons the Church must learn for the future (video description).

If you are not aware, allegations have been brought to light and investigated regarding abuse from Mike. The Church of England has agreed that the claims of abuse are substantiated. You can read the Church of England’s official statement here.

I watched the documentary recently, and I feel very grateful that this is being spoken about and not brushed under the carpet. I’m no expert nor have any personal experience of this abuse, but I did used to attend Soul Survivor and liked Mike, so this investigation has been something I have been following.

Unfortunately, some organisations and leaders can get to a position where they become almost untouchable. “That’s just Mike” was something many people said when allegations were raised, which shows how dismissive people were and how blinded they were to the fact that he was actually abusing his position and abusing people!

We need to have better systems in place that allow people to report allegations, which will then be investigated & not dismissed. Along with systems of accountability, leaders are not beyond reproach, and they should be following appropriate guidelines and open to being addresses about issues.

The fact that this was a Christian leader who I listened to during my Soul Survivor days was heartbreaking, but there is no denying what took place. I’m really disappointed that it was allowed to go on for as long as it did, and so many people were hurt. I felt the same when the truth came out about Ravi Zacharias, too, another very influential Christian leader who had been “untouchable” while he was alive. The documentary points out that these types of abuse are across the board, in many different types of organisations and establishments, not just a church one like this.

But don’t turn a blind eye because “that’s just Mike.” If you see something that you are worried about, report it, and if your report is dismissed by those surrounding that person, then find an outside channel to report them & have them investigated properly. We have to stop this celebrity culture, that people are untouchable because of their position. I’ve heard too many of these stories over the last few years, and it’s not what Jesus wanted for his people. It isn’t Godly behaviour!

“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” 

John Stuart Mill

I pray for the victims. My heart breaks for them. I pray and hope we can put a stop to this happening again. Please let us learn from this and the case of Ravi, and make changes.

Have you watched the documentary? What are your thoughts? Let me know. It’s important to ensure our comments are edifying and helping the church work towards being a loving and safe place.

If you haven’t watched it yet, you can do so here. I feel it is important for us to watch it to help us pray for those involved, raise awareness, and learn from it.

Please note that the information and advice provided in these videos are general in nature and are not intended to be a substitute for professional mental health treatment or advice. If you are a victim, have suffered abuse, and feel you need support, we strongly encourage you to seek professional help. You are not alone, and it is important that your voice be heard. For a list of recommended organizations that can offer support, visit https://www.lettherebelight.life (added from the video description)