Final Report Issued In Outside Investigation of Sexual Abuse Allegations at Duluth’s Vineyard Church

Report said church had a "dismissive response to concerns"; church moving toward a culture "more resistant to abuse and toxicity."

Duluth’s Vineyard Church says it fully accepts the findings of an investigation done by an outside organization, after sexual abuse allegations emerged at the church.

The church says it vows to heal wounds, regain trust and make changes.

Former youth leader, 35-year-old Jackson Gatlin, has been charged with ten criminal counts involving five females at the church.

For its own internal investigation, the Vineyard hired an outside group, Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment, or GRACE.

On Monday, GRACE issued a 95-page final report. Among its findings were a “dismissive response to concerns,” “a pattern of victims who felt disempowered and experienced a loss of voice and choice,” “misuse of divine revelation,” “stigmas given to those who speak up” and a “culture of fear and shame.”

Gatlin’s parents were long-time church pastors at Vineyard. They left the church amidst allegations that they were aware of concerns about their son, but did not act.
The couple denies it had any knowledge of the allegations about their son.

Tuesday, Duluth’s Vineyard Church issued a lengthy and detailed statement in response to the GRACE report.

The church statement said in part that they, “Fully believe and accept GRACE’s findings of fact.”
The church apologized to victims, saying, “The full scope of this tragedy is broad and deep and brings us to tears. On behalf of the Duluth Vineyard, we apologize for the abuse you suffered.”

The GRACE report makes eleven recommendations on how and what to do moving forward. In its statement, the Vineyard says it will put the recommendations in place.
“These changes will help make our community a safer place. They will also help us establish a culture that is more resistant to abuse and toxicity,” the statement said.