Church Axes Worship Musician Amid Abuse Allegations
Radiant Church, the venue for the upcoming Arise Shine Conference aimed at pastors and leaders in Kalamazoo, Michigan, has made the decision to remove worship musician Jeremy Riddle from the event’s lineup. This move comes amidst allegations of spiritual abuse stemming from Riddle’s time at Dwelling Place Anaheim.
In a statement released on the conference’s website and Instagram page, Radiant Church announced the decision following discussions with Jeremy and Katie Riddle, coupled with prayerful deliberation. The church did not specify the reasons behind Riddle’s exclusion but implied concerns about potential distractions from the conference’s intended focus on God’s plans. They urged prayers for all parties involved in the situation at Dwelling Place and requested support for the success of the Arise Shine Conference.
Jeremy Riddle, previously a worship pastor at Dwelling Place Anaheim, resigned from his position in January amid allegations of spiritual and leadership abuse. These allegations were brought forward by individuals such as Noah DeBolt, Riddle’s former drummer, who shared accounts of spiritual abuse experienced by himself and others under Riddle’s leadership.
Former Dwelling Place Anaheim Pastor Cynthia Andrews also spoke out, expressing her distress over spiritual abuse she allegedly endured and her dissatisfaction with Riddle’s response to her concerns.
Noah DeBolt disclosed that he had privately appealed to leaders at Radiant Church to reconsider including Riddle in the conference lineup, citing Riddle’s alleged misconduct. However, when his request was declined, he opted to make a public plea for reconsideration, highlighting Riddle’s purported lack of repentance and accountability.
DeBolt expressed disappointment in Radiant Church’s response, indicating that they justified their decision by citing a desire to hear about Riddle’s “examination process.” DeBolt questioned the need to provide Riddle with a platform and financial compensation for this purpose.
The situation underscores the complexities of addressing allegations of spiritual abuse within religious communities and the challenges in navigating the consequences for individuals involved.