Another New Rick Ousley Thread
If you need to catch up, click here for links to the previous threads.
Also, here’s the link to ALmod’s discussion forum.
If you need to catch up, click here for links to the previous threads.
Also, here’s the link to ALmod’s discussion forum.
May 1st, 2007 at 7:29 pm
The question of finding out how many victims are out there can only be answered by RO. And he probably can’t remember all of them..
I know you (RO) are reading all this. Go ahead take a guess.
Ha Ha big fat chance that will ever happen.
May 1st, 2007 at 7:46 pm
CURTIS1:
Would you mind answering how old you were when Rick Ousley began to mark you as prey?
I was 30. From what I know, I might have been the oldest. The age of 15 certainly seems to be a common thread with Rick’s behavior.
If per chance you were an adult…did Rick tell you Rick needed you in his life to help Rick overcome Rick’s “mistrust” of women? Isn’t that a joke?
The line was used more than once with me in hte summer of 1996.
Truthfully,
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 7:56 pm
Kimberly:
15 about 3 months from 16! Never sexual until I was of age.
You were really old for his trend.
THANK YOU!
Curtis1
May 1st, 2007 at 7:58 pm
KATHY:
I think it’s more than the energizer bunny at work here.
I truly believe that God has unleashed His Holy Spirit to hover inside this thread. I believe God has appointed this time(blog) as the single-most, largest, truth-seeking, fact-finding event in the history of Rick Ousley’s public ministry.
Healing at this time can’t be done via THE CHURCH AT BROOK HILLS. Too much victimization occured within those walls and on the grounds. Perhaps in the future, some of us can feel and know beyond a doubt that safety exists at Brook Hills. For myself, that time is not here yet.
Some of Rick’s inner sanctum still lurks inside the walls of BrookHills. Right now, satan may be prowling about, lurking, and even reading while waiting to devour. There’s an army of prayers going up for this/these current blogs to be directed and guided by the Bright Morning Star. The light of the Star blinds the evil and pierces with an everlasting truth.
You Kathy, have been a vessel. You opened your door and allowed us to visit. You showed hospitality to the wounded. You have been and are an angel. I will never forget your kindness!
Shalom,
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 8:08 pm
CURTIS1:
Through a fluke, and the discernment God gave me…I realized in November 1998 that Rick had a “thing” for teenagers. I was repulsed. So much diarrhea flowed out of Rick’s mouth, I don’t think Rick even realized he gave himself away. Though I will admit, my radar was fine-tuned after having been thrown under the bus in May 1997.
Your Sister In Christ,
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 8:17 pm
The Facts wrote:
Who were those men? Are any of those men still in leadership postitions?
May 1st, 2007 at 8:18 pm
JAUNBOY:
What men?
May 1st, 2007 at 8:19 pm
don’t know why copy and paste didn’t work:
The Facts wrote:
Who were those men?
May 1st, 2007 at 8:20 pm
ahhhh
the lay pastors that asked he and his wife to never show their face again at the church…..
May 1st, 2007 at 8:27 pm
OK, you prayed and HE dilevered….more to come in a few minutes. Everyone needs to stay in this loop and tuned in. WE NEED YOUR HELP
Things went extremely well today and will give more details……hang on
May 1st, 2007 at 8:31 pm
The Facts wrote: April 29
Rick of course called me and my wife liars and in a closed door meeting with other lay pastors at Brook Hills we were asked never to show our faces at the church again.
May 1st, 2007 at 8:36 pm
JAUNBOY:
No, one of the first things Dr Platt did last fall as new Sr Pastor was disband that ring of lay pastors. Only a handful out of 25+ had any real integrity. They were disbanded and in the true Biblical sense of the word..”Elder” Elders were elected at BH. I believe there are 8 elders now.
May 1st, 2007 at 8:39 pm
CASPER:
Were our families at one time back in the early and mid-nineties close? Did our families travel on a short spring break trip in March 1995? If not, then I don’t know who you are. But…I’m charging you to keep a female prayer covering over Donna. (said in the love and spirit of Christ)
Shalom,
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 8:43 pm
CASPER:
If ya’ll get the people to this blog…as per my husband…”I’ve given everything about me but my SS#.” So..it’s not rocket science to figure out who I am. So…what else can I do to help?
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 8:51 pm
Kimberly:
I only hope that none of those men are even teaching any small groups. I don’t think they should be given any responsibility at all!
May 1st, 2007 at 8:55 pm
JAUNBOY:
I’m not a member anymore, but I believe 4 of the elders are former laypastors. One I do not know. Never ran in the same circle. A couple I know for sure have been rocked and devastated by this nightmare.
Check out http://www.brookhills.org You’ll find the list of the elders there on the site.
May 1st, 2007 at 8:59 pm
JAUNBOY:
Here is the elder page link……………..
http://www.brookhills.org/aboutus/page_elders.htm
May 1st, 2007 at 9:15 pm
Kimberly,
You are right at least 4 of the elders are former lay pastors and the number may be as high as 6.
May 1st, 2007 at 9:27 pm
AFBH:
I remember reading about the nominees in the paper back during the fall. I believe (opinion) Dr Platt did it right. He gave anyone a chance to bring information to the table regarding the names. FWIW…I wholeheartedly believe AT SCOTT and BILL CHRISTENBERRY are honest and good men.
Like many…they were duped.
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 9:45 pm
I have been praying off and on all day for Donna and Casper. I really believe they have the voice to get this story to those needing to hear it.
I know some folks from BH’s are reading this. But when I have mentioned this site to several, they have said they don’t want to read gossip. There are too many stories saying the same thing. I just have to pray that the stories being shared are from honest people who want the world to know how RO deceived them. I am concerned for Curtis1 and the story she shared. It is like same song, second verse over and over.
With today being MayDay, I kept thinking, “I bet RO is hollering mayday, mayday” because his ship is sinking fast.
Where is the Amanda Sanders who posted on the first blog on March 24th? She said she lived in B’ham… she could be another link in proving RO’s true lifestyle.
Donna, Casper, TSE, Curtis1, Kimberly, PTSD mom…keep on fighting to get your story heard.
May 1st, 2007 at 9:46 pm
Kathy, thank you for keeping this going for all of us. For the first time since the summer of ‘98, I do not feel so alone. I know there are others that feel the same; probably some we have not heard from yet.
May 1st, 2007 at 9:55 pm
BROKEN HEART:
Please don’t worry if others believe it is gossip. For sure..it is not gossip when I post real-life accounts from my life utilizing my very real name.
The real case may be such as the story of Isaiah as I posted Sunday am. One of God’s major and very chosen prophets for Israel. Yet, the Israelites didn’t want to hear bad news. One scholarly school of thought is our beloved Isaiah was eventually cut into half for proclaiming truth the Israelites didn’t want to hear.
It does not matter. We can’t control what others think. We can only keep our faces on the ground and proclaiming truth. To God Be The Glory! His TRUTH will always prevail.
God Bless Everyone,
Kimberly (Ezekiel 34) and ALL of ISAIAH!!
May 1st, 2007 at 10:06 pm
OK, here’s what we need…..Greg Garrison has MORE than hinted about another article, especiall after the events of today. One, came forward and got on the phone with Donna and Greg and in Donna’s own words “her story is worse than mine”. This person was strong enought to give her name to Greg, but I didn’t want to know, nor did Donna give it to me. This story in itself is enough for another story, but Greg was given the outlines of many more stories………what he desires is for people to call him at the Birmingham News. Donna is going to email me later to give me his email address to so it can be posted here in case you need to use that method of contact. (or you can just call directories information)
HERE’S THE BEST PART….if you don’t feel comfortable giving your name you don’t have to. Granted, he so so thankful that the person coming forth today, DID give hers today, but you will not be required to. PLEASE consider this, and pray about it. The article will have more merit and might expose another problem that needs to be addressed. That is, the inner circle of people that choose ALWAYS to try to discredit the accusers instead of ever listening. You would think that after the fourth, or fifth person bringing alledgation against RO, that someone would have finally said “hey, wait a minute……let’s add ALL of these up, something doesn’t smell right here” but they didn’t. In today’s revalation, lucky that she also has old explecid emails from RO. However, even if you don’t have any type of proof, I think Greg wants to hear from anyone….
Someone has posted about an alledged rape allegation……time to really pray about calling Greg. Especially since you don’t have to give your name. The Two of you (husband and wife) would especially be powerful. Someone posted that Chuck Myers brought alledgations…..if anyone knows how to contact Chuck, please do……he too doesn’t have to give his name to Greg, however, Greg is well aware of what happened to Chuck once he brought the charges public. The pastor at Shades Mountain Independant knows of this story too. Kimberly, if RO made advances to you, then you too need to let Greg know the “hows, and whats” of what happened to you.
AGAIN, EVERYONE….. some of you have children and Greg would understand you not wanting to give out your name. On the other hand, any of you that feel so lead, it is more powerful to attach a real name and we all need to thank the courage of the lady who talked to Greg today. That took alot of courage and we’ll all join in prayer for you because you did it with the right kind of intent. I pray that God will truely honor you.
I know of one other woman who entered into a counceling relationship with Ousley just like the woman that was alledgely raped. She too thought they were getting married. We are trying to get in touch with her and her ex husband tomorrow. They called JH and PW at the church and were brought into another “hit squad” session where the inner circle cross examined them until they leave feeling like they had just been charged of a crime instead of RO.
Donna will soon be talking to staff members and lay pastors that were in place while all of this was going on. She and Greg Garrison (hopefully) will probe as to why RO’s background wasn’t more diligently looked at before he was brought to Brook Hills. They’ll also be asked how many times did they have to discredit woman who claimed inappropriate behavior from RO. They’ll also be asked to listen to the tapes!!!…….the same tapes that Greg Garrison was always offered but never listened to before. I believe that if he had listened before, the entire article would have had a different tone. The various stories that RO has spun will be completely torn down by these tapes……and pictures. There is coming the time and ALL truth will be out, and then we can pray the prayer of healing…..healing of all of those done wrong, healing for those that come forth, and healing for RO himself.
I think Donna’s prayer has always been that someehow…..God be glorified in all of this.
May 1st, 2007 at 10:09 pm
Just wanted to jump in and say I’m still prayin’ for ya’ll!!!!!! Gosh, this is getting scary…it’s some serious stuff. Like I have stated before, I don’t know RO or anyone else involved personally, just an outside prayer “warrior” and “worrier” for you guys, and for him as well. Everything’s going to be alright, so don’t give up. I’m so glad you all have each other…all with similar experiences and proof. If/when these allegations come to light…well, that’s a whole different ballgame as far as underage girls and legalalities are concerned. And to think, it could all be so much easier on RO and his family, if he would just own up to it all, and take the consequences like a man. It’s not too late for true repentance and forgiveness…but that means laying it ALL out there…and I mean the ugliest of the ugly. That way, people can at least take “liar” off of the short list when they think about RO. If he doesn’t publically confess and repent, it’s just going to come out in other, more embarrassing ways. Doesn’t he see that? Maybe he will care about his family enough to just come out with it all and humble himself before God and God’s people. That’s the first step to healing for everyone. Just my opinion. Again, I’m praying for you guys!!
May 1st, 2007 at 10:11 pm
I certainly did not mean to forget “The Facts” in the list of those fighting for justice in the RO situation. I am sure there are others who have posted similar situations and I just don’t remember their names at the moment.
All we can do is pray for all the people RO has affected in his life time. My heart breaks with each new entry giving a new detail of RO’s deception and sexual misconduct.
One day he will stand before the Father and answer for every lie, every action, every betrayal, every deception.
May 1st, 2007 at 10:18 pm
Broken Heart: I think Tim was another one. (His sister maybe?)
May 1st, 2007 at 10:23 pm
CASPER:
Here is a problem I have….back in 1996 I didn’t have a cell phone so no taped calls there. I asked if you know of a church calendar from 1996 exists? I began seeing Rick in late April 1996 for weekly sessions under the guise of “Pastoral Authority & Submission.” HAHA!!! What a flippin’ joke!!!!!
Joyce was the receptionist then and it was she that would let Rick know via phone I was there. This was in the old MPB. The office where Rick had that “prayer bench.” Another HAHA!!!!!!
How about if I just start divulging secrets the predator made me swear to…right here on the blog? Secrets that probably only Donna knows.
You see, he needed/asked me to be his “accountabilty” partner as a 30 year old female. What a sick idiot!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And listen, as far as PW…I got way too close to the truth about him to back in the spring of 97. Now, I’ll talk to Greg Garrison for sure…but not without my payer tent of trusted angels present. Take it or leave it.
Not being snarky,
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 10:32 pm
EVERYONE:
>>but not without my payer tent of trusted angels present.
May 1st, 2007 at 10:34 pm
don’t know what happened above but I attempted to cut&paste. Anyway…payer should be “prayer.”
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 10:35 pm
Girl, let it out!!!!!! You’ve been carrying this load by yourself WAY too long. We’re here for you. It’s ok. Let others help you carry this burden. Praying for you now…
May 1st, 2007 at 10:35 pm
Friends,
I Googled “Rick Ousley” this morning to see if the word is getting out, and did not see much that was new. (Seems FullCourt has continued her effort to “prove” various victims to be liars by posting to several other blogs with her oh-so- high-tech analysis and conspiracy theory . . . shudder!)
However, I was moved by the advice offered to RO back in March from someone named Frank at this address:
http://frank-sojournal.blogspot.com/2007/03/advice-for-rick-ousley-and-quixotic.html
Sounds like Frank is a sadder but wiser fellow, and his encouragements for RO to come clean have much in common with Alabama Momma’s good advice to RO- go ahead and ADMIT IT ALL, so there can be some healing, PLEASE. As if my shouting could reach him . . .
May 1st, 2007 at 10:43 pm
Philothea: Wow! That was a GREAT article. Thanks!!!
May 1st, 2007 at 10:44 pm
To Greg: If you’re reading this….where there’s smoke there’s fire!! If 5 come forth, surely you know that 25 are probably silent.
Why did the original founders NOT do “due dilegence” in regards to references about RO before they brought him to Birmigham?
Call the churches where RO was let go in his early years and investigate as to why? hint, same answer that his first wife left him. RO’s story has always been that his first wife didn’t like being a preacher’s wife…not true
Why did the original lay pastors and founders repeated bring accusers in before a large group of staff members, lay pastors/founders and then tear their story apart? Did they ever find merit in ANY of the alledgations? (personally, I don’t believe they “covered” for him….I just believe they were snookered by RO)
Call the pastor at Shades Mountain Independant or Chuck Myers for more info about the local lady who went to her pastor (Shades Mt. Independant) and tell her story about what RO did to her. He was the one who called Chuck with the information that he took forward
Chuck will tell you the man that RO “borrowed” money from (never repayed anything) on two different occasions because of financial troubles. At this time, RO was leading the church into a 20 million dollar building venture because “God was leading him to do so”….Chuck questioned how can we listen to a man about a huge financial matter that cant’ handle his own affairs (bad choice of words)
Chuck can also give you the person’s name and phone number of the man who was on the building financial committee that basically stood up in church during a business meeting and told RO that he was lying……the committee had voted the night before to NOT go forward, yet RO stood up and said it was unanimously voted to go forward. RO let the people then attack this fine man to make him out to be the bad guy…..sounds just like they handled the accusations of the women claiming indiscretions.
Donna will give you the man’s name that called her on behalf of RO to “look” into some missing money at the church. 1) this shows they had a relationship many years ago 2) it makes sense that if Donna could find something that implacated RO, then he could trust her NOT to tell. Remember, Donna is not an investigator…..so why her?? This person will blow you away because of who it is, and what his profession is
Look into the marriage cousenling advice given by RO….and sometimes the same from the couseling center. NOT Biblical at all….
Look into why a local lay person was brought in by RO to “run” the staff. The excuse was RO just physically couldn’t do it….had too much on his plate (yea, like golf and traveling to do other speaking engagements…..couldn’t be a REAL pastor to his own people) This later backfired as the lay person cussed another staff member who he heard was talking behind his back. Because no one could figure out who was really wrong, BOTH were fired…thus removing two more families out of the church. RO didn’t want accountability so he didn’t want to be the one who brought it to others.
Read about Kim Spruell (on this blog) and the events surrounding the settlement that the church had to make to keep her quite.
Ask how many staff members have left the church since it’s inception……this is eye opening!
Ask how many staff members were out of jobs when they were brought on staff at Brook Hills……ever wonder why RO like to surround himself by people that he rescued? Probably alot more loyalty with a person like that.
AS FAR AS DONNA’S STORY GOES: You’ll soon hear from the man’s own mouth the truth. She’ll fill you in from the very beginning…….the actions of a 29 yr. old with her and her little sister……don’t leave that out!
The tapes and pictures tell you all you need to know. Her story is the central nervous system of this entire episode. Without her….without her proof…..nothing would any different than it was a couple of years ago. RO might be in another airport hitting on another stewardess, or visiting another church to take advantage of yet another woman. THAT is what had to stop…………with your help it will.
May 1st, 2007 at 10:48 pm
CASPER:
I need you to answer this question to clarify…
In your post, you used the initials “JH” Now, there are 2 staff members by those initials. One is former; one is current. Which one do you mean? One of them is light; one of them is dark.
Needing to know,
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 10:53 pm
JH is still on staff…. came on staff as a part timer after being out of work for months….work for JP some too. (as did others before they would finally be brought on as a full time pastor)
I believe he is a good man, ……he has sat in on many meetings about indiscretions though as has DA who is still on staff too. Both were out of work when RO rescued them
May 1st, 2007 at 10:55 pm
CASPER:
Chuck Meyers has his own set of problems. But…he does figure in my story of how Rick and I began our “Pastoral Authority Counseling Sessions”
You see, after Chuck stood up on the floor on April 10, 1996 and challenged Rick’s authority (yes, I’m good with dates) I mailed Rick a letter to his home when he lived in Greystone on Berwick. Anyway, I disagreed with Chuck’s handling of it, but in my letter I used scripture to tell Rick he wasan inept pastor with less than desirable leadership skills. I also signed my name.
Within a week, a letter came to our house when we lived in Pelham. Rick suggested in the letter I come in to “discuss” my beliefs.
How’s that Greg for a beginning? There is SOOOOO much inside my brain. And in my Bible too!
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 10:57 pm
Kimberly,
Ever wonder why no one on staff ever preached? RO surrounded himself by a bunch of non preachers. ( I guess LB preached once or twice)
No revivals…..no other preachers…..(RO said every week should be a revival, but I think he wanted to be the ONLY show in town)
Might be why he never pushed for adult Bible study, a gym for youth, or anything like that…..just an opinion
May 1st, 2007 at 11:00 pm
Most didn’t know it, but Chuch was RO’s best friend at the time. RO put him in the pulpit for a few weeks to make sure that the church knew that RO thought he was qualified to be a lay pastor and sure enough, he was elected. He thought Chuch would be another good “yes” man, but after Chuck got so much information, he couldn’t ignore it.
He went to RO first, one on one. He then got a witness and went back to discuss. He then asked for the microphone at the end of the service to tell all. I “think” he thought he was doing it Biblically, but you may have other information
May 1st, 2007 at 11:01 pm
CASPER:
This is MY OPINION ONLY: I believe DA to be an honest and good man. I have always respected his wife. (she taught my youngest at the ELC way back in 97-98)
I don’t believe the same regarding the current JH.
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 11:03 pm
CASPER:
Yes, I have other information. I’ve got tons. Just yesterday…my dear husband said…”You’re either an attorney’s dream, or a worst nightmare.” I have a God-given ability to remember vividly. Dates, events…etc.
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 11:05 pm
I agree with you about DA……..I just believe we all can have a skewed opinion if RO had given you an opportunity like most of the staff had. It was a pretty lax enviroment which allowed for some to have two different paying jobs if they wanted to. If they didn’t want to make extra money, they had plenty of time to play golf….sunbathe….or whatever. In those early years, you couldnt’ find hardly anyone in the office during the day. This is at a church that didn’t beleive in visitation and didn’t visit the hosptals much either.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:05 pm
Casper,
That local lay person to run the staff story is a novel in and of itself. There were many incidents and allegations on that one between all involved. It was a real mess and hurt alot of people unfortunately.
The whole thing with KS is also another novel long story.
Wow, talk about drama.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:06 pm
Greg’s going to love you! You’re making his job easy
May 1st, 2007 at 11:06 pm
Hey guys…if this has been posted earlier, I apologize. It’s a pretty thorough article telling Donna’s side of the story.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:06 pm
CASPER:
The current JH preached once or twice throughout the years. Of course, I fell asleep a few times. But then again…the last few years we were there…Rick’s sermons were pathetic. Another result of the chaos inside his mind. The black sin inside his heart.
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 11:07 pm
http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/SamfordRunner08/74733
May 1st, 2007 at 11:10 pm
ALABAMAMOMMA:
What article are you talking about?
Confused,
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 11:11 pm
I’m sorry, lol, I put the article link in the “website” space, so you had to click on my name to see it. I re-sent it. Oops!
May 1st, 2007 at 11:12 pm
Anyone correct me if I am wrong on this because I might be. RO was chosen to be the candidate for pastor after a couple of people heard him speak at a camp or something like that. Is that correct? I guess the thinking was this guy is a great speaker so he would be a good pastor of a new church.
That is how I heard the story went from the beginning, but I could be wrong.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:13 pm
To Greg again:
Why, after Donna played the tapes for Joyce, did she and Rick decide to still have the fund raiser???
Donna contradicted Joyce’s claims…..all of them, and not with her own words but RO’s himself. It seems as though they went to the fund raiser HOPING that they could get through the day and get out of town with the money. I know of 5 different families that want their money back….So how do they get it, who do they contact, or has the money already been banked by RO??? I understand that “cash” can’t be tracked, but the board ought to announce that the “cash” will be distributed to a ministry somewhere. And they checks or credit card payments be refunded immediately…….
Ask the chairman of the board that !!!!
May 1st, 2007 at 11:13 pm
Guys, have you looked into the backgrounds of some of the people that RO surrounded himself with? What was his relationship with them before he brought them into the church? Were they from AL, TX or AZ?
In these types of situations it is not uncommon for the perp to plant people around him that are part of the scam or whatever he/she is pulling, while others are just good people being used. That way it is always smoke and mirrors (as Kate would say).
I find it hard to believe that RO was only a sexual predator. For somebody paid so well, he seemed to have financial problems on a regular basis. People who will do what he did to these women will also do whatever necessary to line their own pockets.
The funny thing about these types is that they are so arrogant, for some reason, they think nobody will ever catch them. Therefore, they are always living on the edge. They spend because they have no doubt that the next scam will work or there will always be a new sucker.
What I am trying to say is that it does not make sense he was doing all of this alone. I advise you, again, to know who you are talking to.
Of course, I do not state anything on this blog as fact, only my opinion.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:14 pm
ALABAMAMOMMA:
That’s from another article from Samford’s newspaper. I believe Kathy began that with Blog #2 or #3.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:16 pm
AFBH…..you are correct. PW’s wife and another lady (interesting that it would be women that were originally enammered by RO) They came back telling PW that they just HAD to hire him. This story was retold when RO stepped down because they were so proud to have been the ones who recognized REAL talent. They sure did…………
May 1st, 2007 at 11:17 pm
PTSD:
No, he wasn’t just a sexual predator. I can think of a few more.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:18 pm
Casper- it seemed back when those like JH and DA came on board that the “country club” was growing, being filled with stray cats that didn’t have a home, looking for a saucer of milk. We all know what happens when you feed a stray: they stay!
This story is absolutely mushrooming, yet I know it is fully in God’s control. As I have read all the new stories I just feel dirtier all the time for having been so snowed.
BTW - Kimberly has my support to tell her story to Garrison as long as it is in the presence of her prayer tent. I just want her protected.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:19 pm
The other wife was Bonnie Palmer.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:19 pm
Kimberly…Thanks! Sorry ’bout that!
May 1st, 2007 at 11:22 pm
Guys, did RO bring any ex-cons from his “prison ministry” into the church when they were release? If so, who and what were they in for?
May 1st, 2007 at 11:24 pm
won’t tell too much here, but the next few days will find another board member, more committee members, one extremely good supporter (hired gun) and a couple of staff members contacted by Donna herself.
It won’t matter what their stance is but they had better listen to the story, or they may become part of the story. At this point, they might be interviewed as to why they were approving of RO’s lifestyle or they can choose to actually try to help RO and start some true healing.
Continue praying that God will prepare the hearts of these people before they are contacted. We all have to check our intentions dailey. I want true healing for a lady who is seeking it with all of her heart. And eventually I want a man to seek it too.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:24 pm
CASPER:
I think one thing looking back….I thought Rick was um…to put it mildly…not good looking. My original impression of Rick was… Rick was one hair away from the TV evangelists that Rick so verbally abhored from the pulpit. That was in 1992!
May 1st, 2007 at 11:25 pm
KWA: I ditto what you said about Kimberly’s prayer tent and protection. The Lord is working in her heart, at the same time that He’s working in the hearts of all the other victims, as well as in the hearts of people who could get this out like GG….and THAT, my friend, is wonderful. Now, we all have to do our part by praying consistently for everyone involved.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:26 pm
CASPER:
Female prayer covering for Donna! STAT!!!
Medical Lingo for PRONTO!
Kimberly (RN)
May 1st, 2007 at 11:29 pm
CASPER:
I didn’t finish my post….
Looking back, the fact that I didn’t think Rick was “HOT” (as my daughters would use the term) helped me in the long-run.
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 11:29 pm
casper:
The women who were the first to discover Rick were not much different from me or thousands of others who heard Rick talk the talk. I wouldn’t lay any blame on them. Rick had many who admired his ability to get the job done. I am aware that Rick spoke at a church just before his fund raiser that paid him about $4500 for three nights of revival services. I’m sure they were devistated (the women who first heard) as well as the church that paid him so much for his talks.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:32 pm
Kimberly,
In your opinion, was LB and his wife gentley pushed out of the church. I wondered if RO could handle a watchguard like DB. I don’t know if anything was going to get by her. I know the church was having some financial problems at the time and looking for cuts too. But I also know they are the type to want to build something new. Whenever I talked to LB after his left, I think he longed to get back…what’s your opinion?
May 1st, 2007 at 11:35 pm
CASPER:
I’ll answer your question if you answer mine…..
DO I KNOW YOU?????????? (not shouting…caps are for emphasis)
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 11:37 pm
PTSD:
YES! In response to your prison ministry question.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:38 pm
not very well…. (little letters for non emphasis)
May 1st, 2007 at 11:40 pm
Okay, I don’t know who you are. I thought I had you figured out (who you are)
May 1st, 2007 at 11:45 pm
seriously, there will be a time for that. I don’t want that to take the focus away from the central truth. I have been alot more effective this way and Donna understands completely, that is all that matters. I hope and pray that at this time you’ll understand too. I admire what you’re doing here and the fact that you’ve been straight up as many have from the very beginning. You’ll have my prayer tent praying over you in the days to come.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:47 pm
Regarding prison ministry, who were they? Were there many that were ex-cons?
May 1st, 2007 at 11:49 pm
Does anyone remember the Sunday that a young man came down to join the church….RO stated at the end that he had a heart for the youth ministry and wanted to work with kids? Church lets out, and the man goes out into the parking lot and is handcuffed and arrested. He was a child molester!!
I wonder if that scared RO
May 1st, 2007 at 11:50 pm
Handcuffed? What was all that about?
May 1st, 2007 at 11:52 pm
CASPER:
Here is my opinion regarding LB&DB:
I have always held them in high regard/esteem. Are they perfect? NO Have they made mistakes? YES
The important question…Do I think they would’ve ever aided Rick in his dishonesty or pervertedness? NO, not KNOWINGLY.
However…like many…they were deceived by the master deceiver. Sometimes things go on right under our noses. Because we’re in the middle of the forest, we can’t see the tree right in front of us. That’s what
I think happened to them as far as their perception.
As far as them be gently ushered out…I wouldn’t know. They left not too long after we were in the new building. My husband and I were in survival mode at that time and were busy building our fortress around our family.
We were no longer close to them and hadn’t been for awhile. After the spring of 1997, we intimately pulled back from most everyone at BH.
Honestly,
Kimberly
May 1st, 2007 at 11:53 pm
the police arrested the man that had just joined the church, handcuffed him, and put him into the back of a police car.
Rick nor anyone else could have ever known that the man was a child molester, but the church went on notice from that point on. They checked everyone out before they would allow them to work with youth or children.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:55 pm
PTSD:
That happened in late summer 1994. The man was from…Texas. What a story. That’s one story though..I do think Rick is innocent.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:56 pm
Kimberly,
You are keenly blessed with your writing skills. Words and phrases within words and phrases. Messages sent, without having to say too much and then so elogantly phontificant sometimes. Do you write or teach?
May 1st, 2007 at 11:56 pm
CASPER:
Even Rick? I don’t think so.
May 1st, 2007 at 11:56 pm
I read the article about Rick in the Dothan Eagle and was saddened by some of the comments of the local readers. They obviously have no clue as to the scope of this situation. I too am praying that Greg Garrison will be able to pull all the facts together from Alabama, Arizona, Texas and who knows where else! I want this story, in its completion, to get out nationally.
The Dothan paper allows 500 characters in your reply to the article. I tried, but couldn’t say it in those few words. Perhaps someone else would do a better job. I just looked them up online.
I am praying for all of you who have been hurt by RO. I can only imagine how difficult and scary it is to come forward with your stories. I know your concerns for your families must cause you to waver back and forth.
Remember this: “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” ( Edmund Burke 1729 -1797 )
Thank you all for your courage in facing this and exposing it.
Kimberly, I remember how well you could recall things! It is a gift that will serve you and others well now. You are very much in my thoughts and prayers.
God Bless,
Lydia
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:00 am
Casper:
I’m actually an RN. However, I adore the written word, and I love writing. Rick knows that too.
Back to writing…AP ENGLISH in high school.
Hey…maybe I can help Donna write a book. Rick one time in the summer of 1996 suggested that I write a book one day. HA!
Kimberly
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:02 am
Chiled Molester from TX? Any idea who this guy was? His age? Anything about him? Can anybody recall anything specific about this guy?
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:04 am
CASPER:
Lydia and I worked together on Night Shift way back when. Actually..it was late 1998 and most of 1999. She can vouch what she just did up above, but she can vouch just as readily that at times…my tongue can be sear scathingly.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:10 am
PTSD:
A man in our congregation recognized the molester (he was playing in a praise band) from a “Most Wanted” in Texas. The man which recognized the molester was also from Texas. This sicko had outstanding warrants from several states. The FBI agents were waiting for him after Sunday services.
2 things which stand out to me:
1. The molester looked like Kramer from “Seinfeld.”
2. The man which recognized him later took his own life.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:16 am
Were there a lot of people from Texas at BH?
Early on in my investigation, I was looking into a musician (Texas) and pulled up a criminal report on him. He was a child molester. This was not directly connected to RO, but is part of what I have been working on with my child’s case.
If anybody knows anything more specific, please let me know.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:27 am
PTSD:
In 1994, I was 28. My oldest was 5. I think this particular criminal (not to be confused with Rick HA! My opinion) came on the scene in the summer. Seems like he just “appeared” one day at BH. Anyway, he did (or attempted) sports camps that summer. I remember one thing about him is that he had requested to be paid in cash.
Anyway, at the time..I had a 5, 4, and 1 year old. They were too young for the camps. Someone else needs to speak up if they can remember anything more.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:29 am
PTSD:
Not being sarcastic but asking if there were alot of Texans is like asking if Austin is the capital of Texas….YES!!
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:29 am
PTSD:
You have email from me!
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:30 am
Kimberly,
Thank you. Yes, please. Anybody that knows anything about this, please post. Please.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:36 am
Hey, Guys, why so many Texans?
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:37 am
One more time for emphasis:
Donna will probably post early in the morning, so I hope that I’ve represented her thoughts correctly. She and the lady that came forth today could use anyone’s support of other stories to Greg Garrison with the Bham News. It’s easy enough to dial 411 and get the paper’s phone number. You can explain that you would rather not give your name if you so desire, but again you might be lead to give your name for validity.
The more stories that are substaniated give Garrison “legs” that will make the real story stand. Donna has been clear to everyone she is talking to that she is NOT out to destroy the man, or kick him while he’s down. She feels lead to expose all of her story and other’s too to make sure that it doesn’t happen again. Let’s face it, people LOVE the underdog and they LOVE comebacks. At this point, RO could effectively play both roles and financially benefit 10 fold as to what he has been bringing in speaking. The more that comes out, the bigger chance that it won’t ever happen like that.
RO made it clear from the moment that he took the pastor’s position at Brook Hills that he still wanted to travel the country and speak. Not only did he love the attention warranted to a elogant speaker, but he might have had more than one reason to travel and get out of town some. Even as RO stepped down at Brook Hills, people thought it was about his health. His health had nothing to do with it. Think about it, did he stop preaching, NO….did he stop a hectic traveling schedule, NO….
the noose was tightening and the church at Brook Hills needed someone to lead and not to play as much.
People always said that RO was a great preacher, but a horrible pastor!! There’s a huge difference between the two. I believe that RO implemented NO Sunday night church to give him more off time. I must admit, once I got used to it, its hard to go back. He would tell guest to fill out the information card, but not to worry, no one from the church was going to call them, or come visit them to bother them. I believe again this was because he never wanted to paster the flock. There were a group of women that really got discouraged through the years because they didn’t think RO hit the home runs with currect affairs on a variety of subjects….now we all know why.
The issues that are now being told are all CONNECTING THE DOTS… (just gave Garrison his next title to his article)
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:44 am
CASPER:
I will post in the am. I am tired. And processing…
God Bless,
Kimberly
May 2nd, 2007 at 2:17 am
Did everyone contact the Quixotic web site as Donna requested? I did, and have received no reply. I asked them to take Samford’s name off their web site - it is still there. (I still don’t understand why Samford University has not demanded their name be removed!) Quixotic CONTACT: http://209.61.148.168/templates/System/details.asp?id=36468&PG=Contact&Style=&RecordType=&pkg=
I also sent The Baptist Press the B’ham News article about R.O. Maybe if more of you would write to them, they might get this news out. http://www.baptistpress.com/
May 2nd, 2007 at 6:30 am
CASPER:
Was looking through your 2nd long post. The spelling of the church you have repeatedly referred to is….Shades Mountain Independent. Your spelling was incorrect. Just type SMI as it’s called by members.
Also, I can assure you the pastor at SMI has been devastated and blown away by all these revelations. I’m not sure if he’s up-to-date, but he is aware of some of the defilement.
I certainly don’t have any pastors up on a pedestal, nor any other minister of the Gospel (TSE can testify to that
) But, I will tell you this, the pastor of SMI speaks the Gospel of Jesus doused in Truth.
Rick’s first marriage: As his accountability (I know, I know, I know) partner for a short season in my life…Rick told me a different story. I have always felt compassion for Deb. Never have met her, just compassion because I know how she was painted to others.
Up thread my husband posted as KWA. (his initials) Go back and read it if you missed it last night.
I’ll be praying for Donna and you today. So will my prayer tent.
Shalom,
Kimberly
May 2nd, 2007 at 9:13 am
Regarding Samford, there are a couple of things I do not understand. I suggest that they need to look back at anything and everything RO was connected to: the chapel, the football team, scholorships, etc. and do a thorough investigation. I suggest that there is probably more there than meets the eye and they need to find out.
Regarding SMI, who is the pastor?
Guys, again————–why so many Texans at BH? Were they brought there by RO, just coinsidence?
May 2nd, 2007 at 9:32 am
KATHY,
Thank you so much for continuing to provide this forum. I am happy that now it is being used as a method of Connecting the Dots and not like the first blog where folks argued scripture. You are doing a great service in helping everyone in bringing this situation to the light.
DONNA,
Thank you for your courage in admitting your past with RO. That opened the door for others to tell their story.
GREG GARRISON,
Please, please follow through with all you read and hear.
May 2nd, 2007 at 9:52 am
MM: (BH MEMBER)
I have no idea if you’re reading the blog. If you are, please know that this pm I will be posting an entry of apology to you. Because of time restraints, I am not able to now. I’ve been told that many BH members are reading the blog. Perhaps someone can get this message to you…YOU HAVE AN APOLOGY COMING FROM ME! It may not matter to you, but it matters deeply to me. If I am going to walk this road in recovery, I’m going to walk it in 100% complete honesty.
In November 1996 at your house, I willingly and knowingly told you a lie.
More later,
Kimberly
May 2nd, 2007 at 10:09 am
RE: National Coverage
Guys, I think this story is growing by the day. I could be mistaken, but believe that by getting this story picked up nationally, it will be more difficult for it to go away.
I run a business and need help with trying to get this accomplished. If any of you are willing to help me compile e-mail addresses, send messages, etc., please contact me on Almod’s blog.
I will try to set up an organized system that should make this relatively easy to contact, not only religious writers, but people that cover other stories. I want to target all types of media, not just print.
I will appreciate any help you might give me.
May 2nd, 2007 at 10:51 am
In checking with friends around Texas, I’ve not heard of anything in print regarding this story. Don’t know about the Houston area, though.
May 2nd, 2007 at 11:47 am
Hello to all!
As you can see from CASPER and from CURTIS 1 I have been one busy lady . CURTIS 1 I will start with you by saying a HUGE THANK YOU for having the courage and trusting me in telling your story to me and then allowing me to get in touch with Greg Garrison and the three of us having a three way conversation as you mentioned above. I know from experience how very hard that was for you but I hope that like me afterwards you felt some relief. I had to smile when I saw that you had posted because it showed me you had thought more about this. Greg Garrison does need to talk to anyone and everyone that has ANY information. Those out there that know something and might think it is not that important please call anyways it just might be the link that connects another dot.
Before I get off on other subjects here is the information to get in touch with Greg Garrison
Birmingham News - (205) 325-4444 or his email address is ggarrison@bham.news.com . Please I urge all to call. I have no doubt this man can be trusted and to say the least he has felt betrayed by Rick Ousley like so many others. I am sending Greg information today RUSH delivery that I think will be shocking as it was for so many others but will only prove once again I”M TELLING THE TRUTH AS I HAVE FROM DAY ONE.
Several keep asking why Rick Ousley can’t just tell the whole truth? I think that CURTIS 1 will agree with me when I say he has lived this double life for SOOOOO long I’m truly beginning to think he actually thinks he has told the truth. The man is a sick sex addict in every sense of the word. He lies and has lied so much that I truly think he believes them as the truth.
What ever his sick mind thinks it is WRONG and if he is NOT GOING TO TELL THE TRUTH THEN WE HAVE TO DO IT FOR HIM.
CURTIS 1 WE “KAN DO” this and I have to tell you again how very proud of you for finally letting go of some of the burdens you have carried for so very long. I also understand your ANGER and even as you just said when we just hung up the phone we are connected you and I in more ways than one and WE WILL SEE THIS TO THE END. Yes I would love for us both to have the chance to face Rick Ousley and see if he would lie to both our faces. At the same time Rick thinks his boat has been rocked well thanks to CURTIS 1, CASPER AND GREG GARRISON and all you out there reading that are now coming forward (I urge you to call Greg Garrison) HIS SHIP IS ABOUT TO SINK!
CASPER thank you again for all your help and we have to much more to do….
OK! now to answer another question that has been asked…At one point in one of my blogs I referred to Rick as being LIKE AIDS and made reference that he had infected so many…. I have been tested for aids not because of Rick Ousley but just medical problems that I have had through the years with my digestive disease. When your blood work comes back with high or low numbers (Kimberley who works at a hospital can explain this better) more test are determined to find out why. I will say this from the first until the last time I had sex with Rick Ousley at no time did he ever use protected sex. At one time I mentioned that too him and he said he hated it. CURTIS1 knows very well that what I just said was true because he told her the same thing.
I ask you all to pray for me, CASPER and for this BRAVE new SISTER (CURTIS 1) that has shared so much with me and with Greg Garrison but she is gathering more and more evidence that she had saved up also.
Once again I want to say one last thing! My intention was never to beat Rick Ousley down all I have ever wanted from day one is for the WHOLE TRUTH to come out. That has NOT happened as to date so therefore my job is not done and I WILL NOT GIVE UP AND I WILL NOT CONTINUE FOR HIM AND HIS CAMP TO CONTINUE TO LIE AND COVER UP. 29 YEARS OF LIES AND MANIPULATION IS ABOUT TO END.
God Bless You and Yours,
Donna Jones
Greg Garrison - Birmingham News (205) 325-4444
ggarrison@bham.news.com
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:11 pm
Ok, I’ve been pretty silent for some time now, but I’ve still been watching the developments on this blog. It’s good to see this story might FINALLY be picking up some steam again. I just hope with all of the allegations coming out and the number of people finally getting the courage to speak publicly about their affairs (no pun intended) with Ousley that the story flies MUCH further than the B’ham area. Getting a follow-up article from G. Garrison is a good thing, but it can’t stop there. One would think a solid investigative journalist connected to a national media organization could run with this and blow the doors off the entire Ousley stronghold. At least that’s what I’m hoping and praying for.
And finally, I can’t help but respond to Kimberly’s earlier post that left me laughing hysterically.
Kimberly said: one thing looking back….I thought Rick was um…to put it mildly…not good looking.
Oh, I can’t tell you how funny that was and I could not agree more! Since this story broke I’ve seen pics of RO on the Web and I wondered aloud how someone looking like that could entice so many different women into bed with him. Hmmmmm … maybe that helps to explain his perversion for young girls – especially those who (and I don’t mean to sound harsh here) don’t have the highest level of self esteem. I’m sorry, but as a distant observer I don’t happen to see the physical attraction to him. I guess he must be one heck of a charismatic guy. I think if this story gets legs and pops nationally, Gary Busey should be waiting by the phone for his call to portray Ousley in the made-for-TV movie.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:25 pm
If Gary Busey is not available, call Nick Nolte. Rick often referred to him as his look-a-like.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:31 pm
FYI: I live in Texas and was impacted tremendously by RO’s ministry when I lived in AL. There was a short story covered in Souther Baptist Texan, the weekly (I think) publication of the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention, on April 9. It is found on page 3. In other words, hundreds, if not thousands of pastors in Texas have read the article. It’s basically just a short summary of the original Birmingham News aritcle, but it does include his name and church. Interestingly, this entire issue of “The Texan” is a special report dedicated to the infiltration of pornography into the church, sexual addiction in ministers, and other similar issues. Though it may not have made news in in the big papers, it has indeed been in print in Texas.
May 2nd, 2007 at 12:57 pm
That publication - Southern Baptist Texan, is the newsletter for the fundamentalist sect of Texas Baptists. The readership is limited to primarily pastors, who are usually loathe to share anything bad about fellow ministers unless it somehow makes them look good.
May 2nd, 2007 at 1:11 pm
Hey guys…There’s a link on Christianity Today’s (the magazine) website to Greg Garrison’s story. http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2007/marchweb-only/113-21.0.html It’s way on down the page, under the heading “Church Life.” Interestingly enough, it could have been under two more headings on the page: “Sexual Ethics” and “Abuse.” They also have a big article about Ted Haggard on their site (fallen preacher)…maybe they’d be interested in telling Donna’s story (along with so many others).
May 2nd, 2007 at 1:26 pm
One more thing…(may have been posted earlier by someone)…but I wonder, after reading the stories of victims on http://www.stopbaptistpredators.org, if any of these people are talking about RO? You can go to http://stopbaptistpredators.org/htm/Contact.html to tell them your story. At least that’s another avenue of getting it out there. (I’m not saying RO or anyone involved is Baptist…but I know a lot of “us Baptists”
have gone to hear him and have been involved with him over the years.)
May 2nd, 2007 at 1:33 pm
ALABAMA MOMMA:
Thanks for the information on articles. I do think many ministers can be like many doctors when it comes to looking the other way or covering for each other.
Even though these Christian publications are good, if you guys want to get the job done, you are going to have to find a way to get to producers and editors of the national mainstream media.
May 2nd, 2007 at 1:38 pm
BROKEN HEART:
hehehe
Nolte would work too, I just think based on his history with mental illness after crashing his motorcycle too many times without a helmet that Busey could play the part perfectly.
May 2nd, 2007 at 1:38 pm
I think you’re right PTSD Mom. Too many ministers and youth ministers around the country will hope this is never brought up simply because they supported/promoted Ousley so strongly. The don’t want to be embarrassed by the actions of one of their own. Regardless of who he may have victimized right under their(my) nose.
May 2nd, 2007 at 1:45 pm
Never thought of it like that…I agree whole heartedly, though. We need somebody BIG…
May 2nd, 2007 at 1:46 pm
stopbaptistpreditors.org has a link on their site to the RO story and they are waiting for Garrison’s next article
send links to this blog (and past threads) to:
dateline@nbc.com
http://abcnews.go.com/2020/story?id=3034040&page=1
or to add comments
http://abcnews.go.com/Site/page?id=3072379
May 2nd, 2007 at 1:50 pm
Hey All,
I made a HUGE mistake on Greg Garrison’s email address I post it wrong. Here is the CORRECT address
ggarrison@bhamnews.com
Thanks All late to a doctor appt will write more later
God Bless,
Donna Jones
May 2nd, 2007 at 1:55 pm
Juanbuoy: Thanks for the links. I would try NBC or CBS also. In my experience, they tend to be more responsive.
Also, if you guys e-mail them, make sure your subject line is outstanding; something that will make them read the message. Then keep it short and to the point. They probably will not read the blog. I definitely would not point them to the first blog because of all the scriptural fighting.
I need to point out to all of you that you should not be too disappointed if the media outlets do not pick up the story. I have found that there are very few investigative reporters left. Most want a complete story with an ending dropped into their lap (Video with sound bite is even better.) To me it appears that many of them are not too into finding the truth; kind of like some (definitely not all) law enforcement these days.
I am beginning to think that in many situations critical thinking skills have gone out the window.
May 2nd, 2007 at 2:25 pm
Dr. Phil is looking for anyone who wants to tell their story of an adult bully…I think RO has bullied his whole life. Go to http://drphil.com/plugger/respond/?plugID=11258 to share your story. It’s worth a shot! Who knows, maybe Dr. Phil (being a Texan and all) will pick this up and run with it. And we ALL know Dr. Phil is big enough and fair enough to do a great job of stopping RO’s bullying behavior!
May 2nd, 2007 at 2:52 pm
KIMBERLY: Try Again.
May 2nd, 2007 at 2:54 pm
ALABAMA MOMMA:
Sometimes the producers of these shows tend to manipulate the story in order to create, in their minds, a bigger, better story.
People that have helped me throughout the years warned me away from this type of thing because they were burned big time.
May 2nd, 2007 at 2:57 pm
LOL, ok, I give up…don’t want to do more harm than good!!
May 2nd, 2007 at 3:00 pm
ALABAMA MOMMA:
No, you ARE making good suggestions. If you haven’t been through this “stuff” , you (nor anybody else) would know much about how it all works.
In the beginning I took all of these avenues. This is the only reason I know about any of it.
Please do not be offended. I think you and others must continue to make suggestions. Brainstorming is the only way anything will be accomplished. Truly, I am hoping that you guys come up with something that I haven’t tried.
May 2nd, 2007 at 3:04 pm
*******************TO MM (BH MEMBER)**********************
Think back to 1996 and the immediate results of what I term…”THE CHUCK FIASCO.” Remember the letter I mailed to Rick at his house, and the weekly sessions that followed?
Well, by the fall, we had figured out that Chuck was um…not completely what we thought. One Friday night, I had driven my youngest over to your house. While I was still there, we (you and the Mrs MM) engaged in a conversation regarding Rick. We were all trying to pick up the pieces regarding the “dupe” by Chuck. We were torn. But you however, with your tenacity for for truth still didn’t trust Rick. I was trying to EASE your mind a bit. (I know, I’m an idiot)
Anyway, you point blank asked me about Rick’s first marriage to Deb. You had heard something different besides the same ol’ story regarding Deb not wanting to be a pastor’s wife. You asked me if there had been adultery in Rick’s first marriage. You asked if the divorce was actually Biblical. Without batting an eye(and knowing what you were asking) I said yes. I told you there was an affair, but not on Rick’s part. You said something that made me even feel lower than dirt.
You said something such as (remember..I’m paraphrasing) “Okay Kimberly, you have Rick’s ear now and Rick listens to you. WE don’t trust Rick, but we trust you.” I just nodded and shrank inside.
Looking back, that was a defining turning point in our families’ friendship. Yes, for awhile we were friends, but consequences began to take their toll.
So many times throughout the years I tried to come clean with ya’ll. But..I didn’t know how to without spilling everything. At that time, I was in the poisonous clutch of the octopus.
Do you remeber a few summers ago when I gave ya’ll a bunch of free passes to Visionland? That was just one of the times I tried to assuage my guilt. After the summer camp incident between the girls, and I called ya’ll…it hit me months later… that was just more of the consequences of “my sin” from years gone by.
Remember our prayer warrior friend VP? They’re singing the Memphis Blues I believe. Gosh, she always had such a beautiful voice! One time a very long time ago at a birthday party at McDs (those were the days) VP said she always knew when I apologized that it was sincere. If VP were right here now in my house, she would discern the same again.
I am truly and deeply sorry for verbalizing, participating, and endorsing a lie to two of the ones I loved as well as KWA. If you read this, I sincerely ask for your forgiveness. I don’t have a private email for you guys. But honestly, I thought you desrved a public apology for what I did.
Humbly through Christ,
Kimberly
May 2nd, 2007 at 3:08 pm
PTSD:
Will try later!
May 2nd, 2007 at 3:09 pm
I was totally kidding with you! I’m with you guys until the very end…until happily ever after. I will keep trying…but I’m seeing that my time might be better spent lifting you guys up in prayer!
May 2nd, 2007 at 3:18 pm
ALABAMA MOMMA:
Yes, prayer is good. Prayer is good. BUT—- brainstorming and trying to figure it all out is, I believe, what god wants us to do. Each of us is a link in God’s chain and, yes, that means you. LOL.
If you want to do some research, please get on the computer and find the names of all the major newspapers and e-mail addresses for their religion and investigative reporters. Start with Phoenix, Houston, Fort Worth, Dallas, Atlanta, Memphis, etc., etc.
We need to do this methodically and with good organization.
My friend that is trying to help with this, will compile a list that we can ALL use to let them know that this is a story that needs their attention.
It is worth a try.
May 2nd, 2007 at 3:34 pm
Just as an FYI, the following site can link you to any newspaper, TV, radio station, etc., in the U.S. (worldwide, actually). Sorry, I am not sure how to create a hyperlink within this blog, so you may have to cut and paste this into your browser’s URL line: http://www.newslink.org/
On that site you can find all media by state, and there are also blogs for major cities (yes, B’ham is one of them).
Happy hunting!
May 2nd, 2007 at 5:00 pm
Coooool. Thanks, Sam.
May 2nd, 2007 at 5:06 pm
TSE Says:
I think you’re right PTSD Mom. Too many ministers and youth ministers around the country will hope this is never brought up simply because they supported/promoted Ousley so strongly.
I would like to go on record saying that I am a youth minister who strongly supported RO but, TSE, I am GLAD this has all been put into the light. Many of my friends in the minstry feel the exact same way. I know many of you have been hurt by those in full-time ministry but please realize there are some of us out there who:
1) Take our relationship with Jesus Christ seriously
2) Value and guard our integrity
3) Love our churches and our calling in life
When I told my students about RO, many of them openly wept. Seeing the huge disappointment on their faces has caused me to strive even harder to live a life “beyond reproach.” I bet you will find that many ministers have done the same the thing because of their love for God and their love for God’s people. God Bless all of you who are posting on this site and I pray that you will find the healing that you so desperately seek.
May 2nd, 2007 at 6:03 pm
GREG GARRISON:
If you’re out there per chance….Consider the boldness of Rick Ousley.
After our history, and having been gone from BH since June’05, the man still had the audacity to mail us an invite to that God-forsaken fundraiser.
Which IMHO, is only a step away from theft. Remember too, Rick and Joyce had just been on the phone with Donna a few days before. What a dynamic duo they were/are.
When we received that invite in the mail, we just threw our heads back and laughed a big one.
I termed the fundraiser God-forsaken without flippancy. God was nowhere near the man on that fateful evening. I’ve said it a million times since August 2004, RO was saved by God from death so he could experience the HELL we have gone through for years!
A little bit snarky right now,
Kimberly
May 2nd, 2007 at 6:25 pm
CASPER:
Just in case you didn’t realize it last night…I support your efforts 100%.
I don’t need to know who you are. Through faith, I’ve stepped out on plenty of limbs lately. One more will only add to my growth.
My utmost prayer is for Donna’s well-being right now. My prayer tent is keeping her bathed in prayer.
God Bless You. The flowers are blooming for the first time in a very long time.
Shalom,
Kimberly
May 2nd, 2007 at 6:46 pm
This is a question directed to SAM! If I had read correct in one of the other pages of the blog on this one or maybe another one because like you I have been following this story pretty close. I will look later to confirm but I thought I had read that you actually knew Donna Jones (the lady who came forwarded with this story)? If I, am correct then you pretty much blasted her in the dirt face first with this quote:
“Oh, I can’t tell you how funny that was and I could not agree more! Since this story broke I’ve seen pics of RO on the Web and I wondered aloud how someone looking like that could entice so many different women into bed with him. Hmmmmm … maybe that helps to explain his perversion for young girls – especially those who (and I don’t mean to sound harsh here) don’t have the highest level of self esteem. I’m sorry, but as a distant observer I don’t happen to see the physical attraction to him. I guess he must be one heck of a charismatic guy.”
Actually I think you may have hurt all the woman who have made statements about Rick Ousley. Guess that’s why there are so many that still won’t come forward and after reading garbage like this can we blame them? They already feel bad enough but why kick a dog why there down?
Just my opinion but I was offended by just reading it.
May 2nd, 2007 at 6:57 pm
Harrison: Come on, let’s not get that kind of junk started again.
A Youth Guy: Please do not think that we feel this way about all ministers. There are many good people out there serving God that are beyond reproach and that would not cover something like this up. TSE was responding to one of my posts because we both know that there are quite a few of the other kind out there. I pray that you continue to be blessed in your ministry.
May 2nd, 2007 at 7:05 pm
I agree with PTSD. Just don’t go there friends.
May 2nd, 2007 at 7:45 pm
I