"Unveiling Darkness: Inside the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church’s Silent Struggle with Abuse"
Investigation Uncovers Child Sex Abuse in Insular Minnesota Church Community
Duluth, MN — An extensive investigation by ProPublica and the Minnesota Star Tribune has revealed troubling allegations of child sex abuse within the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church (OALC) community in Duluth, Minnesota. The inquiry centers around Clint Massie, a church member who pleaded guilty to sexually abusing young girls and is currently serving a 7.5-year prison sentence in Faribault, Minnesota.
The OALC, a conservative Christian sect with roots tracing back to 19th-century Scandinavian immigrants, is characterized by its insular nature and strict adherence to traditional values. While there is no official membership count, a 2016 academic study estimated around 31,000 members globally, with a significant concentration in the United States.
A Culture of Silence and Denial
The investigation involved a thorough examination of hundreds of pages of criminal records, interviews with alleged victims, and attendance at a church service in Duluth. It revealed a disturbing pattern of behavior among church leaders, who appeared to prioritize the community’s reputation over the safety of its children.
Daryl Bruckelmyer, an OALC preacher, acknowledged in a 2023 police interview that he was aware of Massie’s abuse but insisted it was the victims’ responsibility to report the crimes. This stance contradicts Minnesota law, which mandates certain professionals, including clergy, to report suspected child abuse.
“We don’t protect either one,” Bruckelmyer stated, referring to both victims and abusers. However, the evidence suggests that church leaders actively chose to shield Massie from legal consequences, despite being informed of their obligations.
Victims’ Experiences: Forgiveness Over Justice
Victims reported that church leaders held meetings instructing them to forgive their abuser and forget the trauma they endured. In one instance, a church leader allowed Massie to hug a victim during a meeting, further compounding the emotional distress for those affected. Internal church documents indicated that discussions between victims and their abusers were encouraged, often placing the onus of reconciliation on the victims.
Missed Opportunities for Intervention
The investigation also highlighted missed opportunities for law enforcement intervention. Prosecutors had previously engaged with church leaders, hoping to educate them about their legal responsibilities. However, church leaders failed to report Massie’s abuse, despite clear state laws requiring such disclosures.
Bruckelmyer’s assertion that victims should approach law enforcement on their own reflects a broader culture of silence within the OALC, where discussing abuse is often stigmatized.
Legal Ramifications and Community Response
In the wake of Massie’s sentencing, two of his alleged victims have filed lawsuits against him and the OALC, seeking justice for the abuse they suffered. They are represented by the same attorney who previously represented victims in the high-profile Jeffrey Epstein case. In a letter from prison, Massie denied the allegations outlined in the lawsuits.
The OALC has responded to the lawsuits by asserting that it has complied with the law regarding the case. Kimberly Lowe, a lawyer for the church, stated that the unpaid nature of the preachers may exempt them from mandatory reporting laws, although she acknowledged the ambiguity in the statute.
A Growing Community with Deep Roots
The Old Apostolic Lutheran Church, which is not affiliated with mainstream Lutheran denominations, has been experiencing rapid growth, particularly in regions like Washington state and Duluth. The church promotes a lifestyle of modesty and simplicity, discouraging activities such as dancing, music, and movies. Central to its teachings is the concept of forgiveness, which many former members describe as being emphasized to the detriment of addressing abuse.
Conclusion
The findings of this investigation raise critical questions about accountability and the protection of vulnerable individuals within insular communities. As the legal proceedings unfold, the OALC faces scrutiny not only for its handling of abuse allegations but also for its broader implications on community safety and the welfare of its members. The ongoing legal battles may serve as a catalyst for change within the church and similar organizations, highlighting the urgent need for reform in how such communities address allegations of abuse.