TENTMAKERS
Supporting survivors
of clergy sex abuse.
Victim Support
Contact Us
TentMakers of Louisiana
TentMakers of Louisiana (TentMakers) is an organization dedicated to fostering hope, healing, and justice for survivors of clergy sex abuse. Our primary objectives are to bring restoration, joy, and a renewed sense of life to those who have been affected. We provide a safe and supportive space where individuals can connect and openly share their fears, hurts, sorrows, and feelings of betrayal. Simultaneously, we actively work towards addressing the lack of clear accountability, transparency, and responsibility within the Catholic Church. Through our collective efforts, we strive to create a future where hope flourishes, healing prevails, and justice is upheld.
Simultaneously, we actively work towards addressing the lack of clear accountability, transparency, and responsibility within the Catholic Church. Through our collective efforts, we strive to create a future where hope flourishes, healing prevails, and justice is upheld.
At TentMakers, our mission is centered on establishing a reliable and supportive network for individuals seeking solace and understanding. The Peyton family, recognizing the crucial need for a safe space to openly share fears, hurts, sorrows, and betrayals among trusted individuals embarked on a search for such an environment. While exploring various organizations, we realized that most focused on exposing overarching issues within the Church, which did not align with our specific circumstances. It became apparent that people hesitated to address these concerns, and victims were burdened with deep trauma, making open conversation incredibly challenging.
The consequences of the scandal and the lack of transparency had severely strained relationships within the Church and the wider community. Victims, deprived of trust, found it incredibly difficult to confide in friends and family. Witnessing the detrimental impact on our own son, five other children, the community, and our valued friendships, (the Peyton family) felt a profound sense of obligation to contribute to finding solutions. Understanding that our Diocese stood at the epicenter of these challenges in the United States during the 1980s, it became clear that our efforts begin here, supporting victims, their families, and their communities on their journey towards healing and seeking justice.
Victims of clergy sexual abuse lack a comprehensive guide outlining the steps and timelines to navigate the various organizations involved in seeking healing and justice. As a result, their pursuit of justice becomes an ongoing battle, demanding unwavering determination to hold their priest accountable and ensure his incarceration. They face the daunting challenge of acquainting themselves with the diverse range of available counseling options and the specialized support explicitly required for clergy sexual abuse. The situation’s complexity is further intensified by the fact that this abuse took place within the Church, which had previously been a sanctuary of solace and healing but had now become a source of betrayal and anguish.
At TentMakers, our unwavering commitment is to rebuild shattered trust, provide guidance, and foster a profound sense of justice within our communities. Through our collective endeavors, we aim to create an environment where victims can find solace, families can discover the support they need, and communities can come together to heal and seek resolution.
Click here to read our open letter to Pope Francis, calling for the removal of Marko Rupnik’s art from places of worship, churches, and publications and demanding Dr. Paolo Ruffini’s resignation, accountability, and healing within the Catholic Church.
THE NAME TENTMAKERS
The journey to establish TentMakers Of Louisiana was not an easy one. The Peytons faced immense obstacles as they confronted the trauma inflicted upon their family, navigated the legal system, and challenged the Catholic Church hierarchy. Their unwavering commitment to justice for survivors required immense personal sacrifices. In a pivotal and painful moment, Deacon Scott Peyton was excommunicated after he and his family left the Catholic Church and joined the Anglican Church, a decision driven by their deep dissatisfaction with the Church’s handling of their son’s abuse.
This decision, while profoundly difficult, underscored the Peytons’ unshakable resolve to prioritize the well-being of survivors over institutional allegiance. They understood that true healing and justice often come at a cost, and they chose to stand with victims, even when it meant facing rejection from their faith community. https://www.
Despite these challenges, the Peytons remained steadfast in their mission. Drawing on their firsthand knowledge of law enforcement and the Church, they crafted a comprehensive guide to empower victims with the tools and resources needed to navigate complex legal and ecclesiastical systems. They sought to give survivors a voice, ensure accountability, and inspire hope for healing.
TentMakers Of Louisiana became a beacon of hope for victims of clergy sexual abuse. The organization offered information to help victims find help and specialized support tailored to the unique needs of those affected by clergy sexual abuse. They collaborated with legal experts, therapists, and other professionals to create a network of support that victims could rely on during their journey toward healing and justice.
Additionally, TentMakers Of Louisiana aimed to raise awareness about clergy sexual abuse within the Catholic Church and the wider community. Through public education campaigns, advocacy efforts, and speaking engagements, the organization sought to break the silence surrounding this issue and encourage dialogue, understanding, and prevention.
Letitia and Scott Peyton became modern-day Priscilla and Aquila, using their personal experience and expertise to provide support and guidance to victims of clergy sexual abuse. Through TentMakers Of Louisiana, they created a safe space for healing, empowered victims with knowledge, and tirelessly worked toward ensuring that no one had to face the journey alone. Their organization became a testament to their resilience and determination to bring about change in the face of betrayal and anguish.
Testimonials From Survivors who received Assistance from TentMakers
VICTIM SUPPORT
SUPPORTING VICTIMS OF CLERGY SEX ABUSE
TentMakers Of Louisiana is a dedicated organization that aims to bring hope, healing, and justice to survivors of clergy sex abuse. Our mission revolves around providing restoration, joy, and renewed purpose to those who have been deeply affected by these experiences. We sincerely appreciate your support in this endeavor, which is crucial in helping us fulfill our mission.
Resilience Angel Armor Survivor Bracelet
Inspired by TentMakers Louisiana
This special edition bracelet is even more special because it was created especially for TentMakers of Louisiana by a survivor. The natural stones, including Citrine, Guatemalan Jade, Cloudy Quartz, and Hematite, reflect the soothing and peaceful colors of our website, making it a perfect fit for our mission.
I hope survivors and their families will purchase this bracelet to honor their loved ones who have endured so much. Let it be a reminder that they are loved, remembered, and supported as they heal, never losing hope.
TentMakers Insight Luncheons
Conversations for Community and Healing
*Please remember that you will be responsible for paying for your lunch at the time of the event.