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What do you do when the Church—the place meant for safety and healing—becomes the source of deep hurt? In this honest conversation, Pastor Mark Cress joins us to explore how to navigate church conflict, extend forgiveness, set healthy boundaries, and move toward healing.

We talk about:

• The difference between personal and systemic church hurt
• Why isolation may feel safe but stalls healing
• Why boundaries are bibical
• How to know when to stay or go
• What real forgiveness looks like (and why it’s not the same as trust)
• What healing looks like after trust is broken
• How to recognize a healthy Christian community

You’ll also hear Mark’s powerful story of a time when church relationships were strained—and how God led him through healing and restoration, along with the faith lessons that came through it.

Key Scripture References:
John 16:33, Matthew 6:12, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Luke 23:34, Psalms

Links & Resources:

• Pastor Mark’s Church: https://crossroad.live
• Full blog + free resources: https://gingerharrington.com/
• Related Episode + free printable resource on Forgiveness: https://gingerharrington.com/forgiving-sets-you-free/

🎧 Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who’s been hurt by the church.

Habits of Hope Podcast is for informational and inspirational purposes only. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice—spiritual, medical, legal, or otherwise.

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