By Our Readers
Feb 25, 2026
‘Looking Away Does Not Help’
To the editor:
Re “Abuse Was a Tool at Compound, Past Residents Say” [Feb. 19, front page]:
Recent allegations of mental and physical abuse and coercive practices at the Community of Jesus in Rock Harbor have shocked many people. But these stories are not new. Survivors have been speaking about these experiences for decades — often at great personal cost — but their voices were dismissed, minimized, or quickly forgotten. This time it’s different.
I’m a survivor of the Community of Jesus. I left at age 15, and for decades I have spoken openly about the abuse and exploitation I experienced growing up there.
To the survivors who have already come forward — thank you for your courage. To those still finding their voice — please know you are not alone. Your story matters. Together, our voices carry strength.
At times, this feels like the story of David and Goliath. The Community of Jesus has ample resources and is skilled at shaping its own narrative. Survivors often feel small by comparison. But we have something powerful: truth, and the courage to speak.
These stories can be difficult to hear. But looking away does not help. Awareness can become action.
We have been asking important questions: Are the appropriate authorities fully investigating these claims? Are children being adequately protected? Is there transparency and accountability where it is needed?
These questions have been raised before, sometimes quietly and sometimes urgently. It is long past time for the answers.
Listen to the survivors’ stories and contribute your own accurate information about this group. The truth has power.
Shawn DeLude
Orleans
The writer is president of Rock Harbor Truth.
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