230. When Ministry Hurts: Healing Without Losing Faith with Jeremy Butrous

What happens when deep faith collides with deep hurt?

In this powerful and nuanced conversation, Heidi Mortenson sits down with Jeremy Butros to explore his journey through church hurt, ministry trauma, and personal healing. Jeremy openly shares his experiences of childhood verbal abuse and the trauma he says he endured while working in ministry contexts connected to Bob Hartley and Shawn Bolz.

Rather than offering sensationalism or blame, this episode dives into the complexity of navigating spiritual leadership, boundary violations, forgiveness, and personal responsibility. Jeremy reflects on his time in high-level ministry environments—including working with Shawn Bolz—and the 2–3 year healing process that led him toward emotional integration, self-mastery, and spiritual maturity.

This conversation holds space for both pain and faith—offering wisdom for anyone wrestling with church-related trauma while longing to stay anchored in God.

"The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." ~Psalm 34:18

What You Will Gain

• An honest conversation about church hurt and ministry-related trauma
• Insight into trauma responses and long-term healing
• A balanced perspective on forgiveness, boundaries, and accountability
• Encouragement to pursue professional help alongside faith

Follow Jeremy on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeremyButrous/videos

Find more about Heidi: www.heidimortensonlmft.com

If you are in crisis, help is available by call or text 1-800-273-8255 24/7. You can also visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org. You are loved!