#6 Questions re: the Firefly Report
A request for clarity of evidence and testimonies from IHOPKC survivors...
Seeking Clarity
While the 68 page report from Firefly does seem like a profound appeal for 21st century church reform, it also raises some questions.
I appreciate the extensive work Firefly has done to identify and address issues of sexual impropriety and the reporting of cases within the IHOPKC organization. Unfortunately, it is lacking in clarity. It fails to communicate the factual evidence and testimonies of survivors efficiently.
Below are questions I have about the report and the “Interviewed Survivors” (IS) it lists. This is followed by excerpts from the report, which I placed in order of IS #s, beginning with four that are named.
The report stated:
“Throughout the investigation, we have identified and interviewed seventeen (17) Survivors who were either sexually abused or experienced sexually abusive misconduct, including sexual abuse, rape, clergy abuse, and spiritual abuse, perpetrated by BICKLE beginning to our knowledge in the mid-1970s. These acts of abuse have had profound and lasting impacts on the lives of the victims, causing significant emotional, psychological, and spiritual harm. The survivors have shown immense courage in coming forward to share their experiences despite the fear and trauma associated with these events.”
Although the investigation claims to have identified (17) Survivors who “were either sexually abused or experienced sexually abusive misconduct … perpetrated by Mike Bickle,” it does not clearly communicate if all of these accounts were directly perpetrated by Mike Bickle himself or “perpetrated” by him as a result of mishandling under his leadership. The report also lists IS #s through #32. In the report, many of the IS accounts refer to SA by other Accused Staff Members (ASM) rather than Mike Bickle.
I am not refuting the report but rather seeking clarity.
My Questions
Why are accounts of eight IS #s (out of 32) missing (IS #s 1-3, 17, 19, 20, 27, 30)? Are four of these #s referring to the four IS #s that are named: (IS) Deborah Perkins, (IS) Tammy Woods, (IS) Terry Hartly, and (IS) Olivia Bauman-Pousseur? Where are the accounts of the other missing IS #s in the report?
Which IS#'s refer to situations with Mike Bickle, and which ones refer only to Accused Staff Members (ASM)?
If only certain IS#s refer to accounts involving Mike Bickle, why does the statement about 17 IS indicate that they were all perpetrated by Mike?
Was the report of rape referring to Mike Bickle? I only found accounts of rape in the report referring to Accused Staff Members: ASM #1 (of a a 14-year-old female in the 1980s... before the time ASM #1 worked within IHOPKC), ASM #2 (of IS #24), ASM #9 (of IS #14).
Is this last account (ASM #9 of IS #14) the case referred to concerning the following situation?
IW #161, a staff worship leader on the Night Watch, received a report from one of her singers that another staff member had sexually assaulted her. GREAVES, the director of Night Watch, was informed. The victim was taken for a sexual assault/rape exam; later, she was forced to tell her story multiple times to different people. According to IW #161, the victim held onto the claim of rape until she was worn out and persuaded to reconsider and drop the charges. According to IW #161, the alleged offender was promoted and given a larger stipend to continue in the ministry.
Can the report be organized in such a way as to present the factual evidence, IS #s and stories, etc. in a succinct manor, which would help identify timeline, dates, and link specific accounts/stories together, in order to help individuals grasp the full picture of the FACTS rather than just the interpretation by Firefly of the gathered information. The report seems to have much interpretation mixed in with facts, evidence, and interviewed survivors and witness testimonies. It would be helpful to see BOTH separately and distinguish between the specific allegations against Mike Bickle verses ASMs at IHOPKC.
Excerpts from Firefly Report in order of IS #s
First, if you are seeking to get an overview and answer questions concerning the overall report, I recommend reading Dr. Denouement’s take on it:
Below are excerpts from the report, which I placed in order of the IS #s, beginning with the four named Interviewed Survivors (IS).
_________
(IS) Deborah Perkins, (IS) Tammy Woods, and (IS) Terry Hartly
IW #194 reported that Bickle took a keen interest in him and his family, including (IS) Deborah Perkins. Bickle would often take them to the park to play football, treat them to meals at restaurants, and accompany them to the bookstore, investing a significant amount of time with them. Both IW #194 and (IS) Deborah Perkins admired BICKLE and respected who he was. This tactic is often used by individuals to gain the trust of those around them. In this case, BICKLE’S strategy appeared to win over (IS) Deborah Perkins's family, thus gaining their confidence and isolating her.
BICKLE emerged as a significant figure within Tammy Woods' family, forming close ties with her mother and other relatives. (IS) Tammy Woods (MINOR – 14-year-old) described him as charming and charismatic, with a contagious passion for Jesus. His presence brought a new dynamic to the family, as he often engaged them in thought-provoking conversations and shared his beliefs with enthusiasm. Family gatherings became more lively and meaningful, with BICKLE'S influence creating a sense of unity and shared purpose among the members.
BICKLE was able to gain the trust of (IS) Terry Hartley (MINOR– 15-year-old) and her family. This was a well-thought-out tactic that BICKLE used within his grooming and selection process. Everyone looked up to him and admired his ability to connect on a personal level. His charm and persuasive skills were instrumental in winning over the family, making them feel valued and understood. BICKLE'S calculated approach allowed him to subtly influence their thoughts and actions, embedding himself deeply into their lives.
BICKLE employed a variety of manipulative tactics against his victims. These women were systematically and intentionally groomed into harmful, emotional, and spiritual abuse. His calculated actions created an environment of control and exploitation, where the victims were coerced into compliance and silence. This deliberate grooming process not only inflicted deep psychological and emotional trauma but also eroded their sense of self-worth and trust.
From those we spoke with, BICKLE was seen as a fatherly figure and took on the role of protector. He always had a group of young girls around him and was rarely seen in public with his wife, Diane.
This grooming was evident with (IS) Deborah Perkins. BICKLE had known (IS) Deborah Perkins’s family for some time, and he and Diane, BICKLE'S wife, were close to them. This relationship allowed him to gain the family's trust and access to Deborah. Over time, BICKLE'S charm and persuasive nature enabled him to exert his influence, gradually drawing (IS) Deborah Perkins into his circle.
IW #194 reported that Bickle took a keen interest in him and his family, including (IS) Deborah Perkins. Bickle would often take them to the park to play football, treat them to meals at restaurants, and accompany them to the bookstore, investing a significant amount of time with them. Both IW #194 and (IS) Deborah Perkins admired BICKLE and respected who he was. This tactic is often used by individuals to gain the trust of those around them. In this case, BICKLE’S strategy appeared to win over (IS) Deborah Perkins's family, thus gaining their confidence and isolating her.
BICKLE emerged as a significant figure within Tammy Woods' family, forming close ties with her mother and other relatives. (IS) Tammy Woods (MINOR – 14-year-old) described him as charming and charismatic, with a contagious passion for Jesus. His presence brought a new dynamic to the family, as he often engaged them in thought-provoking conversations and shared his beliefs with enthusiasm. Family gatherings became more lively and meaningful, with BICKLE'S influence creating a sense of unity and shared purpose among the members.
BICKLE was able to gain the trust of (IS) Terry Hartley (MINOR– 15-year-old) and her family. This was a well-thought-out tactic that BICKLE used within his grooming and selection process. Everyone looked up to him and admired his ability to connect on a personal level. His charm and persuasive skills were instrumental in winning over the family, making them feel valued and understood. BICKLE'S calculated approach allowed him to subtly influence their thoughts and actions, embedding himself deeply into their lives.
BICKLE employed a variety of manipulative tactics against his victims. These women were systematically and intentionally groomed into harmful, emotional, and spiritual abuse. His calculated actions created an environment of control and exploitation, where the victims were coerced into compliance and silence. This deliberate grooming process not only inflicted deep psychological and emotional trauma but also eroded their sense of self-worth and trust.
BICKLE’S behavior towards (IS) Deborah Perkins, an 18-year-old intern, followed a similar pattern of manipulation and control. He created a sense of dependency and obligation by showering her with gifts, money, and places to live. His regular visits to her apartment and taking her for rides were tactics to isolate her and establish a private, controlled environment. She received special treatment from BICKLE. This grooming process made (IS) Deborah Perkins feel special and valued, but it was a calculated move to gain her trust and compliance.
As time went on, BICKLE’S control over (IS) Deborah Perkins intensified. He began to dictate her daily activities, limiting her interactions with others and reinforcing her reliance on him. This isolation further entrenched her dependency, making it increasingly difficult for her to break free from his influence. The special treatment she received was a double-edged sword, as it simultaneously made her feel privileged and trapped. The emotional turmoil caused by this manipulation left her struggling to understand her own feelings and the reality of the situation.
According to our interviews, BICKLE often commented on young women's appearances in over- the-top and publicly embarrassing ways. While these comments were intended to be affirming, they often had the opposite effect, making the recipients feel uncomfortable and objectified.
BICKLE’S manipulation of (IS) Deborah Perkins extended to controlling her lifestyle and daily habits. By convincing her to follow the isolation of the early “desert fathers.” 15 By isolating her from others, he further entrenched her dependency on him. The requirement to fast three days a week was another method of control, weakening her physically and emotionally and making her more susceptible to his influence.
(IS) Deborah Perkins felt particularly special and valued when BICKLE provided her with an apartment and a key to his office. These gestures were not only symbols of trust and favor but also tools of control and dependency. By giving her these privileges, BICKLE reinforced the illusion of a special relationship, further entrenching her loyalty and compliance. However, these acts were calculated moves to maintain dominance and ensure she felt obligated to him. The complexity of such manipulation can leave victims feeling both privileged and trapped, making it even harder to break free from the abuser's influence.
BICKLE’S manipulation extended to creating a distorted narrative where he cast himself as the Priest, his wife Diane as the Nun, and (IS) Deborah Perkins as the Shulamite. This twisted portrayal further exploited (IS) Deborah Perkins’s faith and trust, making her feel as though their relationship was divinely ordained. By using religious imagery and roles, BICKLE deepened his control over her, reinforcing the idea that their interactions were special and justified.
As time passed, Bickle's behavior escalated, becoming increasingly inappropriate and predatory. He began to exhibit manipulative tactics, isolating (IS) Deborah Perkins from her support network and gaining her trust through calculated actions. This ultimately culminated in the sexual assault of (IS) Deborah Perkins.
On November 16th, 2023, at 8:56 PM, BICKLE emailed19 the husband of (IS) Deborah Perkins, writing:
“I assure you that I will honor you and your family all my days. I will never present you or any of our friends as betrayers or agents of the Black Horse. I want peace, humility, and love for Jesus and one another, and reconciliation with all of us—I know that will take some years, but this is what I am contending for. I am totally against any speaking against, attacking, or suing one another, etc. I will not allow anything negative to happen to any of them to the degree that I have influence. I will zealously advocate for blessing those who are against me.”
“My heart for you has not changed even 1%. I saw the Lord crown you in 2004—that is how He sees you and so I will always agree with Him in this. It is the same with Deborah I have some insight into how the Lord sees her.” He went on to say, “I will never present you or any of our friends as betrayers or agents of the Black Horse.”
Even as the story unfolds, BICKLE reaches for the prophetic manipulation he has used so often over the years. By claiming to have “some insight into how the Lord sees her,” he continues his controlling behavior and passes blame, suggesting the possibility that (IS) Deborah Perkins and her husband might be seen as betrayers or agents of the Black Horse.
On October 9, 2023, at 7:58 PM, BICKLE emailed IW #13, (IS) Deborah Perkins's husband, stating, “However, I cannot imagine the relational anguish and confusion it would cause in the multi-level long-term sovereign relationship with IHOP and Deborah." Bickle goes on to say, “I realize that she has not betrayed me at this point (so forgive me for using such ugly language as ‘betrayal’) but even the chance of her doing this creates great pain in me (but not anger at her)—that a most trusted friend did this to me at the end of my life after 40 years of being in prayer meetings many hours a day, six days a week.” This was a clear message on how BICKLE reversed the blame for what had occurred, placing it on (IS) Deborah Perkins and portraying her as the instigator of his distress. By doing so, BICKLE effectively positioned himself as a victim of betrayal despite (IS) Deborah Perkins actions being seen in a different light. This manipulation shifted the narrative away from the actual events and highlighted the emotional toll it allegedly took on BICKLE, further victimizing (IS) Deborah Perkins in the process. 20
IW #12 questioned BICKLE about when BICKLE provided (IS) Deborah Perkins a hotel room. After paying for the room, he and (IS) Deborah Perkins went inside. BICKLE told IW #12 that he was sweaty from all the running around and decided to shower in the same room as (IS) Debroh Perkins was in. IW #12 advised he pressed BICKLE, stating, “You walked out of
BICKLE has been accused of engaging in egregious spiritual, emotional, and sexual abuse over decades. He allegedly groomed and fostered inappropriate relationships with women, using the concept of an "apostolic chariot-vision calling" to create an intoxicating partner narrative. BICKLE reportedly shared prophetic words with (IS) Tammy Woods and (IS) Deborah Perkins, claiming that the Lord had shown him that Diane (BICKLE’S wife) was going to die and that they would be in the chariot with him. This narrative expanded his influence among the women involved.
During an interview with (IS) Terry Hartly, she advised in October of 1983, “Mike (BICKLE) explicitly told me of a prophecy regarding the death of his wife, Diane. He believed Diane’s death would happen in an earthquake in St. Louis, and the implication of sharing the prophecy with me was that her death would open up a path forward for him and I to pursue a romantic relationship together.”
During our investigation, (IS) Tammy Woods, (IS) Deborah Perkins, and IS #4 reported observing BICKLE in a state of undress, with an erection. Each encounter appeared to be deliberate and targeted towards the girls.
IW #12 questioned BICKLE about when BICKLE provided (IS) Deborah Perkins a hotel room. After paying for the room, he and (IS) Deborah Perkins went inside. BICKLE told IW #12 that he was sweaty from all the running around and decided to shower in the same room as (IS) Debroh Perkins was in. IW #12 advised he pressed BICKLE, stating, “You walked out of the shower naked with a full erection and exposed yourself to her.” According to IW #12, BICKLE said, “It was immoral, it was immoral, it was immoral.” BICKLE also said, “A man of God will not be humiliated if he humbles himself.” IW #12 advised that he asked BICKLE, “So you got dressed and left the room.” According to IW #12, BICKLE stated, “No, I stayed there for maybe another 90 minutes.”
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(IS) Olivia Bauman-Pousseur
Multiple girls lived in a basement apartment owned by ASM #3 and his wife. The bedroom door locks were removed to allow free access for ASM #3. (IS) Olivia Bauman-Pousseur (18-year- old), an intern at IHOPKC, was physically and sexually assaulted by ASM #3 in 2010-2011. During this period, she had been punched and thrown to the ground and sexually assaulted on multiple occasions. (IS) Olivia Bauman-Pousseur contacted Dave and Tracey Sliker to assist her. (SLIKER was on the ELT as the President of the International House of Prayer University)
SLIKER wanted to meet (IS) Olivia Bauman-Pousseur in person, so she asked IW #109 to attend the meeting. IW #109 stated, “What I came to realize very quickly was this meeting was about extreme grooming, repeated sexual assault disguised as “pastoring” and “one-on-one counseling” she was experiencing at the hands of her landlord.” The focus of the meeting according to IW #109 was “keeping her quiet and the only way to move forward was to forgive, forget everything and not to ask any more questions.” SLIKER told (IS) Olivia Bauman- Pousseur, “This is all a considerable misinterpretation.”
During a second meeting, held at SLIKER’S home, (IS) Olivia Bauman-Pousseur was told not to bring IW #109 and to attend alone. She was surprised that the meeting was with ASM #3 and SLIKER. She was told that ASM #3 had repented and warned her not to tell anyone, including her parents, of what had happened. SLIKER told her, “Jesus doesn’t go spreading all of our sins, so we shouldn’t share the sins of others.” SLIKER also warned (IS) Olivia Bauman-Pousseur not to report the incidents to the police. (IS) Olivia Bauman-Pousseur was aware of a meeting with SLIKER, GREAVES, and BICKLE and never heard the outcome of the meeting. IW #109 attempted to reach out to GREAVES several times but never received a reply.
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IS #4
During our investigation, (IS) Tammy Woods, (IS) Deborah Perkins, and IS #4 reported observing BICKLE in a state of undress, with an erection. Each encounter appeared to be deliberate and targeted towards the girls.
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IS #5, 6, 7
BICKLE’S grooming of IS #5, IS #6, and IS #7 followed a similar pattern of manipulation and control. He created an illusion of affection and care by whispering in their ear, rubbing their shoulders, and caressing their hair. However, his actions were far from benign. The physical control he exerted by grabbing their necks and forcibly gripping under their ear while commenting on their hair or appearance was a clear display of dominance and power.
_________
IS #8
IS #8, after being sexually assaulted by ASM #5 at IHOPKC, sought help from trusted leadership figures. Instead of receiving support, she was told that the term "assault" was too strong and was discouraged from going to the police or disclosing the incident to anyone. IW #16 said, “You are Holy if you don’t talk. If you talk, you are toxic.” This statement was made many times throughout the investigation by other victims. IW # 191 stated there was a “code of silence” at IHOPKC.
IS #8's experience is deeply distressing. At 18, she advised she was sexually assaulted by ASM # 5. When she reported the assault to two staff members, she was told not to talk about it and was forced to leave the prayer room group. She was made to attend a Matthew 18 meeting with the offender and was told to use the word "violate" instead of "sexual abuse." IS #8 said, “She went to people she thought she could trust, only to be met with dismissal and further harm.”
_________
IS #9
BICKLE’S behavior towards IS #9 is another clear example of his manipulative and predatory tactics. According to IS #9, BICKLE created an illusion of affection and care by rubbing her back, running his fingers through her hair, and kissing her face. However, these actions were far from innocent. In a one-on-one situation, his behavior escalated as he placed his hand on her bare leg, ran it up to her thigh, and made the inappropriate comment, "Freshly shaved," according to IS #9. This conduct was designed to blur boundaries and normalize inappropriate behavior, making IS #9 feel confused and powerless.
BICKLE’S actions were not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of manipulation and control. By targeting IS #9, he exploited her vulnerability and trust, using physical touch and inappropriate comments to assert dominance. This behavior is indicative of a deeper issue, where BICKLE’S actions are calculated to undermine IS #9's sense of self-worth and autonomy.
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IS #10
Victims reported often being terrified about what was going to happen when BICKLE approached them. IS #10, while standing in the prayer room, stated she was approached from behind by Bickle, who placed her in a chokehold and touched her face with his hands. This aggressive and inappropriate behavior further emphasized the alarming nature of BICKLE’S actions and the fear he instilled in women. This incident highlighted the pervasive sense of danger and violation experienced by the victims.
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IS #11
BICKLE was a master at using prophetic words to gain his victims' trust. By presenting himself as a spiritual authority with divine insight, he manipulated his victims into believing that his actions were guided by a higher power. “Everyone around BICKLE wanted to please him and for BICKLE to think they were radical and Godly,” said IS #11. This tactic created a sense of dependency and reverence, making it difficult for the victims to question his intentions or resist his control.
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IS #12
IS #12 advised they were experiencing unwanted sexual advances by ASM #8 and reached out to multiple leaders for help, but none was provided. ASM #8 stayed on staff.
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IS #13
IS #13 had confidentially contacted her leaders seeking help about a situation with a female staff member who was sexually harassing her. She was told that she wasn’t following the biblical process, Matthew 18, correctly. No action was ever taken by the ELT against the staff member. IS #13 reached out to SLIKER, who reportedly told her to “Pull your big girl panties up; you signed up for this.”
It's deeply troubling when someone reaches out for help and is met with such dismissive and inappropriate responses. IS #13’s experience highlights the importance of supportive and empathetic leadership, especially in sensitive situations. The lack of action from the ELT and the response from SLIKER are both concerning and unacceptable.
_________
IS #14
IS #14 was sexually assaulted and raped by ASM #9, a staff member of the Nightwatch program. She reported what had happened to her supervisor, Donna Edwards, and they met with GREAVES, the director of the Nightwatch program. IS #14 was told that the word “rape” was too strong of a word to use for what happened. She attended multiple meetings with different people who questioned her about the incident, which only crushed her spirit. Church officials asked her to retract her story and apologize to the offender formally. They also told her that she should not go to the police. IS #14 stated that “How the church handled the situation was far more traumatic than the rape itself.” This incident highlights the critical need for organizations to have proper safeguarding measures and to take allegations seriously while providing a safe and supportive environment for those who come forward.
Additionally, GREAVES shared his prophetic dreams with victims and others, including a prophetic dream about “Barking Dogs” with IS #14. In this dream, GREAVES told IS #14 that the barking dogs symbolized a warning or alert, often interpreted as a message from the spiritual realm to pay attention to certain issues or threats. This practice again exemplifies the manipulation and control exerted over victims, using spiritual language to justify and perpetuate harmful behaviors.
GREAVES told IW #10 not to tell anyone or report an incident where a relative, who was also an IHOPKC church member, was sexually assaulting a minor because it would be taken care of in-house by IHOPKC.
IW #2 confronted GREAVES about why he told IS #14 not to go to the police after they reported abuse. According to IW #2, GREAVES started to cry and claimed, “Another black man is going to jail.”
IW #110 reported that GREAVES initially contacted her with work-related messages, but the nature of his texts soon became more personal. At one point, he sent her a picture of himself from his hotel room in his pilot's uniform, raising suspicions about his intentions.
The investigation has revealed troubling practices within IHOPKC involving LAGUARDIA. LAGUARDIA was a member of the IHOPKC leadership team, Vice President of Ministries, and local chaplain for the Kansas City and Grandview Police Departments. We have made multiple attempts to contact LAGUARDIA via email and in person at his residence. Unfortunately, we have been unable to elicit any response from him.
In 2023, IS #14 confronted GREAVES in a recorded conversation at the Forerunner Church regarding his mishandling of her report of being sexually assaulted. GREAVES denied any cover-up of the assault. LAGUARDIA was also present during this confrontation. According to IS #14, LAGUARDIA warned her, saying, “If you don’t delete that, I’m going to give your name to somebody, and they’re going to contact you. It will cause trouble if she’s recording to trap somebody. It’s not going to be helpful for you.” After the confrontation, IS #14 felt deeply distressed and unsupported, as her attempt to seek justice was met with threats and denial.
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IS #15
IS #15 stated that she left IHOPKC hurt and confused, advising, “Mike Bickle, Stuart Greaves, and Dave Sliker had an utter disregard for anyone's wellbeing.”
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IS #16
Another example of BICKLE’S manipulation was kissing IS #16 on the head and face while giving her cash. BICKLE’S behavior towards IS #16 is another clear example of his manipulative tactics. By kissing her on the head and face while giving her money, he created a false sense of affection and care. This act was designed to make her feel unique and valued while reinforcing her dependency on him.
_________
IS #18
IS #18 stated that BICKLE “bred a secrecy” between the group of girls, using prophetic words to address each girl specifically. This behavior contributed to an environment of unease and discomfort for the girls involved, raising concerns about their well- being and the program's true nature.
Another example of BICKLE’S comments toward women was shown during the interview of IS #18, who had been collecting various phrases and clips BICKLE had sent her, assembling them into a scrapbook. Some of these clippings from BICKLE consisted of the following, “I love you MUCH, Blessings, Mike,” “You are truly amazing—love Mike,” “Hey, good looking,” “How much does my own heart cost?,” and “My dear one, I don’t want you for what you can do for me...I want you, and I want you for life, for as long as the Lord will give you to me! You’re mine!” These messages highlight the inappropriate boundaries that BICKLE had overstepped, as they reflect a level of intimacy and possessiveness that was unwarranted and intrusive. BICKLE'S communications blurred the lines between professional and personal interactions, creating an uncomfortable and potentially harmful dynamic for IS #18.
_________
IS #21
IS #21 advised she was sexually assaulted as an intern and was referred to the IHOP’s counseling service, Living Waters, run by Tracey Bickle. IS #21 stated she was forced to tell her story about being sexually assaulted as the counselor blamed her, telling her it was her fault.
_________
IS #22
IS #22 advised they were sexually assaulted by ASM #6 and then told not to discuss it with anyone from IHOPKC. It is a clear failure of the organization's duty to protect and support its members. Forcing him to attend the "Living Waters" program instead of addressing the assault only adds to the trauma and silences the victim.
_________
IS #23
IS #23, a minor, joined IHOPKC as an intern. Unfortunately, there were no specific protections in place for minors, and they were treated as adults, encouraged to fast and spend long hours in the prayer room. Shortly after his arrival, he was targeted and groomed by ASM #7, a male leader who exploited the prophetic to lure interns into sexual abuse.
_________
IS #24
In 2010, ASM #2 allegedly sexually assaulted and raped a 16-year-old male, IS #24. We have attempted to contact ASM #2, and ASM #2 referred us to his attorney. We did receive an email response that stated he was willing to cooperate with the third-party investigation but, because of pending legal action, was forbidden to be interviewed. (Note that on October 17, 2024, the Jackson County, Missouri prosecutor decided not to file charges against ASM #2).
IW #2 shared IS #24’s story of abuse with Ed Hackett, an IHOPKC board member, 11 days before IS #24 story went public on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.
IW #2 stated that immediately after telling Ed Hackett, he contacted Joseph Taylor, the Executive Director of IHOPKC, and informed him of
IS #24’s allegation of being sexually abused by an IHOPKC staff member as a minor.
On Friday, August 2, 2024, IHOPKC released a statement to the Kansas City Star32, claiming this was the FIRST TIME they had learned of these allegations.
“We are heartbroken by these allegations, which we have learned of for the first time as a result of your inquiries. All efforts are being extended to uncover the details. We are reaching out to the Werner and Abuhl families to offer our full support. This includes supporting the involvement of law enforcement. We have also opened an internal review to understand how the leadership at the time handled allegations, identify lapses, and create a summary report with recommendations to ensure that training and processes are in place going forward so that this cannot happen again period.”
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IS #25
According to IW #2, ASM #2 was involved in youth leadership at IHOPKC and led a small group of teen boys. IW #4 stated that he would often take the boys on outings to places like the YWCA gym in Overland Park, MO. While at the gym, the boys would be encouraged to disrobe and take showers. IS #25 stated that ASM #2 would find ways to be alone with the boys and ask personal questions about their sexuality.
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IS #26
IS #26 stated that while talking with SLIKER, BICKLE approached her, touched her face, played with her hair, and then walked away. According to IS #26, SLIKER stood by, observing her discomfort, and did nothing to intervene. This behavior was normalized within the leadership, as no one stepped in to stop it, further perpetuating a culture of acceptance of such actions.
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IS #28
IS #28 stated that BICKLE would hug and kiss her on her forehead in the prayer room. She noted how it was “Alarming to think that other leaders knew of Mike’s issues and still allowed him to touch women in the prayer room without holding him accountable.”
_________
IS #29
IS #29 stated that while in the prayer room, BICKLE would touch her lower back, grab her from the back of the neck, and kiss her on her cheeks, forehead, and the top of her head.
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IS #31
IS #31 reported that after disclosing a sexual assault, she was told her story was unbelievable and was discouraged from going to the police. Instead, she was coerced into a meeting with her accuser, further traumatizing her and undermining her credibility.
This practice reflects a deeply flawed approach to handling allegations of abuse, prioritizing the organization's reputation over the well-being of the victims. The use of "Matthew 18 meetings" not only silenced victims but also perpetuated a culture of fear and intimidation. Victims were made to feel as though their experiences were invalid, and the burden of proof was unfairly placed on them.
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IS #32
IS #32 reported that she participated in the Nightwatch program from January to June 2023. She recalled eight encounters with Bickle that were 'very inappropriate.' Two of these incidents occurred in the rapid-fire prayer line at approximately 1:00 AM. She felt a hand on her neck, froze, and realized it was Bickle. His hands moved from her neck down to her shoulders, caressing both shoulders with his face close to hers. IS #32 stated, 'I felt frozen and in fright mode.' She reached out to her leader, but the conversation never progressed. This incident highlights how victims can feel violated and powerless, especially when their concerns are not addressed, allowing the abuser to continue their behavior.
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Be sure to go back and read previous posts to follow my journey of processing and detangling the IHOP-KC crisis.
#2 Questions about Mike Bickle & IHOPKC
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