I'm writing this petition with a heavy heart but a steely resolve as someone who has lived through the tribulations wrought by Serenity Village, a so-called place of worship which has harmed hundreds of people. My name is Lisa, and I am a survivor, now leading the fight for justice and healing. If you've experienced the damaging culture within Serenity Village, you're not alone, and it's time for change.

Serenity Village is situated in Crystal, Minnesota and led by Pastor Jeff Hill, whose moral failings have been ignored for too long. For five years, Pastor Hill engaged in an affair, a clear violation of the principles and integrity expected from someone in his position. Despite this betrayal of trust, he has refused to step down, continuing to preach, and perpetuate the environment of manipulation and abuse that many have suffered.

The impact stretches beyond betrayal; it has systematically dismantled the faith and psyche of its members. As a survivor leading this cause, I can attest to the emotional and psychological toll it takes to untangle oneself from the grasp of such a controlling environment. Many, like myself, have left, carrying with us not only stories of emotional trauma but stories of hope, resilience, and a desire for justice.

The question we must ask ourselves and demand others to consider is why is someone like Jeff Hill allowed to continue preaching when he has demonstrably failed to uphold the basic pastoral duties of honesty and moral standing? The continuation of his role sends a dangerous message that such behavior is permissible within religious communities, which should be places of safety and healing.

The solution is clear and requires decisive, collective action. We demand that Pastor Jeff Hill immediately step down from his leadership position at Serenity Village and that the church undergo rigorous reforms to ensure accountability, transparency, and a commitment to the spiritual and emotional welfare of its community.

This must not stop with a resignation. We advocate for oversight from independent bodies of faith-based organizations to scrutinize the practices within Serenity Village, ensuring no leader can again exploit their power. It’s justice and healing that we’re after—and change that will guarantee a safe haven instead of a place of harm.

If you've been affected by Serenity Village or are standing in solidarity with survivors, I urge you to join us in calling for Pastor Jeff Hill's resignation or the closure of Serenity Village churches if reforms are not kept to. Sign this petition to make our voices heard. Together, we have the power to foster healing and bring about change. Our stories have power—let’s use them to protect future generations from enduring the pain we've experienced. Sign today.