Bryan Meadows’ clergy sexual abuse allegations escalated after a viral YouTube interview and a new statement to The Roys Report. Stephanie Prescott, 34, said Meadows targeted her, and she called it grooming and abuse of power. She said the relationship fit clergy sexual abuse, not an “affair,” because he carried spiritual authority. Prescott said she spoke out so other women could learn from her experience.
A Viral Interview Triggers Backlash
In an 88-minute interview with Jessica Laine MacDonald, Meadows admitted adultery and said it lasted 12 years. MacDonald challenged his secrecy and questioned how he led others while hiding misconduct. Meadows said he took a sabbatical after a church “head prophet” confronted him in 2024. He also suggested loneliness and friendship contributed, but MacDonald pushed back hard. The interview drew intense online condemnation, and other YouTubers amplified scrutiny.
Prescott Describes Grooming and Betrayal
Prescott said she met Meadows as a teen and leaned on him as a “spiritual father” because she lacked support from her own father. She said he crossed boundaries by asking about her sexuality in private, then later kissed her. Prescott said he urged her to marry a boyfriend Meadows called a “spiritual son,” yet he kept the misconduct going. She described layered betrayal affecting her husband, the church, and her own life.
Accountability Questions Follow Church Leadership
Meadows said exposure forced confession, and he framed it as a painful blessing. Prescott said leadership pushed her out, promised a board meeting, and never held it. She said leaders instead planned Meadows’ “restoration,” and he returned to preach months later. Attorney Kate Roberts said pastors label abuse as an “affair” to soften the power imbalance. Roberts said consent fails in adult clergy sexual abuse because the pastor must hold boundaries.
Supporters and Detractors Clash Over Meaning and Consequences
Meadows’ supporters at church praised him publicly and signaled their loyalty, suggesting they prioritize healing and continuity. Detractors on YouTube called his comments excuses and questioned his repentance and fitness to lead. Prescott and advocates focused on pastoral sexual abuse, and they warned that “toxic submission” can shield leaders. Critics also demanded a third-party investigation and transparent accountability, because internal processes can protect institutions.
Atlanta megachurch pastor admitted 12-year ‘affair’ with his co-pastor. Today, his victim went public, calling it ‘abuse.’
Photo by Adi Goldstein on Unsplash
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