Easter is the celebration of Jesus’ victory over death, the ultimate symbol of hope, redemption, and new beginnings. Yet for many, walking into a church on Easter Sunday—or any Sunday—brings not joy but pain. Perhaps you're one of them. Perhaps the place that was supposed to be a refuge became a source of deep hurt. If that's you, I want to acknowledge your pain and say: you are not alone.
Jesus Was Hurt by the Church, Too
It may come as a surprise, but Jesus Himself experienced what we now call church hurt. He was betrayed by one of His closest followers, misunderstood and falsely accused by religious leaders, mocked by the very people who should have recognized Him as the Messiah. When He hung on the cross, facing the ultimate rejection, He still cried out, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34, ESV).
Jesus understands your hurt not just in theory, but in experience. The wounds of betrayal, abuse, legalism, and judgment—He bore those, too.
It's Not About People—It’s About Jesus
The church is made up of people, and people are broken. Sometimes, tragically, their brokenness spills over in ways that cause deep harm. But church, at its core, isn’t about people. It’s about your personal, intimate, and unshakeable relationship with Jesus. Your faith isn’t tethered to human leaders or institutions—it’s anchored in Christ, who will never leave you or forsake you.
If you’ve been hurt by the church, please hear this: Your pain is valid. Your wounds matter. And your story isn’t over.
An Apology on Behalf of the Church
I want to say what maybe no one has said to you yet: I’m sorry.
I’m sorry for the judgment that made you feel unworthy.
I’m sorry for the legalism that weighed you down with rules instead of lifting you up in grace.
I’m sorry for the abuse that stole your safety, your peace, your trust.
I’m sorry for the betrayal that shattered your spiritual foundation.
This is not what Jesus intended. He came to set captives free, not to bind them with shame. He came to offer rest for the weary, not to burden the broken. And while the church may have missed the mark, Jesus never has—and never will.
Easter is Still for You
Easter isn’t just about celebration, it’s about resurrection. It’s about dead things coming back to life. It’s about hope rising from ashes and light piercing the darkness.
If you’re carrying church hurt, let this Easter be the beginning of something new. Not a return to what was, but a resurrection into what could be—a renewed relationship with Jesus, separate from the failings of others.
You don’t have to pretend everything’s fine. You don’t have to go back to unsafe spaces. But you can step forward into healing, into hope, into the arms of the One who knows your pain and calls you beloved.