Jesse grew up in "the perfect church," or so he was told. The small, albeit pushy congregation his life centered around in the town of Oregon, IL seemed almost ideal as a small child.

But then the immortal leader died.

She didn't come back to life like she was supposed to. And the new leader liked restrictions. There were so many restrictions. Jesse found himself trapped in a cycle of punishment, abuse and humiliation that made his teen years a prison -- both literally and figuratively.

Although he eventually got away, there are certain things (like felonies on his permanent record) that he'll never be able to shake.

Join us to discuss the Church of Jesus Christ Forever.

***This episode contains disturbing descriptions of child abuse. Listen with care or skip this one if you're squeamish.

Music by Lee Dunn, opening/closing song by The Chaw

Editing by Dhyana Levey