Survivors have filed federal lawsuits in the United States alleging that Harvest Christian Fellowship, a prominent California megachurch, and certain leaders failed to prevent or stop sexual abuse of children housed in church-connected homes in Romania over many years. McAllister Olivarius+1
These cases allege not only horrific abuse by a former pastor and missionary, but also institutional negligence and cover-up by church leadership.
Phillips Law Group is monitoring this litigation and is available to speak with survivors or families who believe they may have been harmed in similar contexts. Call today to begin working with a Harvest Christian Fellowship / Romania Homes Lawyer.
Allegations in the Romania Abuse Lawsuits
According to complaints filed in U.S. federal court:
- Harvest Christian Fellowship and its senior leadership allegedly supported and funded children’s homes in Bucharest, Romania. McAllister Olivarius
- A former pastor and missionary associated with the church is alleged to have carried out sexual and physical abuse on a large scale over many years, targeting vulnerable street children taken into the homes. McAllister Olivarius+1
- Plaintiffs claim the church continued to fund and promote the work despite warnings and concerns raised by visitors, donors, and others. McAllister Olivarius
- The lawsuits further allege a long-running cover-up, with inadequate oversight, failure to remove the alleged abuser, and continued public praise and financial support even after red flags surfaced. McAllister Olivarius
Harvest Christian Fellowship and named leaders have denied the allegations, and the litigation is ongoing.
Types of Claims Being Pursued
Complaints filed in these cases assert claims such as: McAllister Olivarius+1
- Negligence and gross negligence in supervision and operations
- Failure to protect children in institutional care
- Intentional infliction of emotional distress
- Civil conspiracy and related claims
Survivors describe long-term impacts, including PTSD, depression, self-harm, and ongoing economic hardship.
Who Might Have a Potential Claim?
You may have potential rights if you:
- Lived in a Harvest-affiliated children’s home in Romania or another international setting
- Participated in mission programs, youth ministries, or residences overseen by church personnel where abuse occurred
- Were abused by a pastor, missionary, or staff tied to Harvest Christian Fellowship or similar institutional programs
- Tried to report concerns and were ignored, dismissed, or discouraged from speaking out
Time limits for bringing claims can depend on where the abuse occurred and where defendants are based. Survivors outside the United States may still be able to pursue claims in U.S. courts in some circumstances. A Harvest Christian Fellowship / Romania Homes Attorney can help you understand your options in your specific situation.
How Phillips Law Group Supports Survivors
Our team can:
- Conduct a confidential intake to understand your experience and where it fits within existing litigation
- Coordinate with specialized co-counsel handling Romania-related or church-abuse cases when appropriate
- Help you pursue compensation for therapy, lost opportunities, and emotional harm
- Seek institutional accountability and reforms as part of settlement or litigation strategies
We focus on minimizing retraumatization, keeping you informed, and respecting your choices at every step.
FAQs
Do I have to be in Romania to pursue a claim?
Not necessarily. Some survivors now live in different countries. Jurisdiction and venue issues are complex, but U.S. federal courts may be available depending on the facts.
What if I was never in a children’s home, but was harmed in another Harvest program?
Related abuse connected to church staff, mission work, or programs might still support a claim. A detailed legal review is needed.
Will this affect my faith community?
Civil cases focus on accountability for institutions and leaders. Many survivors seek change precisely to protect future children, even while maintaining or reshaping their personal faith.
Contact a Harvest Christian Fellowship / Romania Homes Attorney
If you or a loved one were abused in connection with Harvest Christian Fellowship or a church-sponsored children’s home or mission program, you can speak with an attorney confidentially.
Call or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.
Disclaimer: The facts summarized here are based on public complaints and reporting. All defendants are presumed innocent of wrongdoing unless and until liability is established in court or through an official finding.
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