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One week after Rebecca Stirm made a post implicating Jubilee Ministries' Worship Leader Mervin Budram in child abuse, the National Evangelical Association of Belize has finally come forward with a statement. This is after a number of other women followed Stirm with similar complaints against Budram for alleged incidents of abuse that happened under the shadow of the Church Ministry.
And while all this was exposed in the public domain, NEAB, like someone coming out of a long sleep, says in its release, quote, "NEAB is appalled to hear the accounts of sexual abuse that have been brought to light in this past week…NEAB stands firmly against sexual abuse in all its forms, and we stand with the victims and commend those who came forward."
So, why didn't the association come forward first? They are always quick to speak when it comes to marijuana or LGBTI issues - but on this one, their silence was notable for the past week.
Well, first, they say, quote, "The handling of abuse situations is…delicately challenging." They then add, quote, "Jubilee Ministries handled the situation swiftly, thoroughly, and local authorities were brought in as Jubilee leaders became aware. They followed proper protocols, and did so quickly which is in line with Biblical and ethical standards and is offering counseling and support to those affected."
