Spiritual Abuse in Ministry | A Pastor’s Wife’s Story with Charlaine Martin — Louise Sedgwick

Many who enter full-time Christian ministry expect hardship, but few anticipate the depth of disappointment, betrayal, and criticism that can come from within the church itself. For some, the wounds go even deeper, resulting in spiritual abuse by those entrusted with oversight and care. These experiences have led many faithful servants to quietly step away from ministry, carrying grief they never expected.

In this week’s episode, Charlaine Martin joins me to share the first part of her story. As a pastor’s wife, Charlaine faithfully served alongside her husband in small rural churches for many years. In this conversation, she recounts the painful experience of spiritual abuse they endured in their very first church assignment. Her story sheds light on a hidden struggle faced by many in ministry and opens the door to hope, healing, and truth.