Lorraine Zielinski has filed a lawsuit against Grace Community Church (GCC) and its longtime pastor, John MacArthur. The complaint, submitted Thursday in Los Angeles County Superior Court, accuses church leaders of publicly disclosing confidential counseling details during a church service. Zielinski claims she sought help for her abusive marriage but was pressured to abandon her legal separation plans.
Allegations of Coercion and Public Shaming
Zielinski alleges that church leaders at GCC coerced her into remaining in her marriage, despite expressing fears for her and her daughter’s safety. When she attempted to resign her church membership, pastors allegedly placed her under discipline. According to the lawsuit, GCC leaders threatened to reveal private counseling information to the congregation if she did not meet with them. When Zielinski refused, the church allegedly followed through on its threat, publicly sharing her private information while misrepresenting her role in the marriage dispute.
Supporters Citing Religious Freedom, Critics Citing Privacy Violations
Supporters of Grace Community Church argue that such matters fall under religious freedom protections. Attorney Matthew Branaugh notes that courts typically avoid interfering in internal church governance, including membership discipline. However, Branaugh also acknowledges that limits exist when church actions affect the public or involve non-doctrinal issues. Critics, including Zielinski’s lawyers, argue that the church’s actions violated her right to privacy and free association, painted her in a false light, breached confidentiality, and caused emotional distress.
Church Discipline Process Under Scrutiny
Grace Community Church’s bylaws describe a detailed membership and discipline system, allowing for public dismissal of members who refuse repentance. Resignation is only accepted from members in good standing and not under discipline. Zielinski’s complaint claims her resignation attempt was rejected and that she was subjected to public shaming. This is not the first time GCC’s discipline practices have been questioned. In 2002, MacArthur publicly excommunicated a woman who refused to reconcile with her abusive husband—an action that drew long-term controversy.
Biblical Counseling and Confidentiality Limits
GCC employs “biblical counselors” who are not bound by the same confidentiality standards as licensed professionals. According to the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors, this counseling method allows disclosures within church leadership if repentance is deemed lacking. Critics argue this undermines trust and creates legal vulnerabilities. GCC has not commented on the current lawsuit.
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Former Member Sues John MacArthur’s Megachurch for Public Shaming
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