By Rebecca Johnson // EEW Magazine: Allegations of sexual abuse cover-ups continue to trouble high-profile ministries, raising urgent questions about transparency, accountability, and trust in Christian leadership.
The latest accusations against Joni Lamb, president of Daystar Television Network, allege a cover-up of her granddaughter’s abuse—a charge she denies. However, this controversy amplifies a troubling pattern of mishandled abuse cases that deeply wound the faith community.
The Allegations
Jonathan Lamb and his wife, Suzy, both former Daystar employees, accuse Joni Lamb—his mother— of concealing sexual abuse involving their 5-year-old daughter.
The perpetrator, identified as “Pete,” was reportedly a close family friend and Daystar employee. Jonathan described to Roys the harrowing moment he discovered the abuse.
Suzy and Jonathan Lamb and their two children (Credit: Jonathan Lamb Instagram)
In the sweltering Florida heat of August 2021, Jonathan Lamb, then an executive at Daystar TV, was summoned by his wife, Suzy. Their young daughter was in danger, she feared.
A chilling moment unfolded when a relative named “Pete” followed Jonathan’s 5-year-old daughter upstairs as she prepared to change for a swim at a beach house Daystar had rented for its annual executive retreat in Miramar Beach. According to the exclusive report, Jonathan rushed into the room in response to his wife’s urging and was horrified by what he saw.
“To my horror, my daughter was completely naked, and (he) was in the room. I screamed, ‘What are you doing?’ And (he) apologized repeatedly, like someone caught red-handed.”
Suzy recalled the perpetrator’s demeanor as “zombie-like,” with eyes that “had gone black.”
The Lambs claim that rather than report the incident to authorities, Joni and the late Marcus Lamb prioritized protecting Daystar’s public image.
Roys writes in her report: “Marcus and Joni justified Pete’s presence in the girl’s room by saying Pete loved her and simply wanted to hang out with her, Suzy said.”
Grandma Joni Lamb, Granddad Marcus Lamb (Deceased) and their grandson during happier times (Credit: Jonathan Lamb Instagram)
Although these allegations remain unresolved, they underscore the devastating impact on the trust and faith of supporters.
A Disturbing Pattern of Scandal
This case follows recent accusations faced by Hillsong founder Brian Houston, previously reported by EEW Magazine online. He was acquitted in August of concealing his father’s sexual abuse of a young boy in the 1970s. Despite Houston’s not guilty verdict, the trial revealed systemic failures in church accountability, prompting questions about the structures that allowed such allegations to emerge decades later.
Even when criminal charges are absent, the reputational damage is profound. Attorney Paul Derengowski, who specializes in abuse litigation, observed, “The cover-up often does more damage than the original sin because it sends a message that protecting reputations matters more than protecting people.”
The Breach of Trust in Ministry Leadership
These incidents transcend isolated scandals, pointing to a broader issue of how some ministries handle accountability. Leaders who opt for secrecy over transparency risk not only the reputation of their organizations but also the spiritual trust of those they shepherd. Abuse allegations strike at the heart of credibility, eroding the moral authority of ministries meant to exemplify Christ-like integrity.
“Ministries must recognize the gravity of these moments,” said Pastor Angela Martinez, an advocate for survivors of church abuse. “True biblical leadership demands transparency and the protection of the vulnerable—no matter the cost.”
Suzy and Jonathan previously were on staff at Daystar.
Restoring Trust Through Transparency
The Christian community is increasingly calling for reforms that prioritize survivors’ voices and ensure justice. Organizations like GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment) advocate for independent investigations, survivor-centered policies, and third-party accountability. These steps are essential for rebuilding trust.
Ephesians 5:11 commands believers to “expose the fruitless deeds of darkness.” In doing so, ministries not only provide justice but also reaffirm their commitment to biblical principles of truth and righteousness.
A Moment for Reflection and Reform
The allegations against Daystar Television, whether proven or not, diminish confidence in leadership and harm the gospel message.
The church must be a refuge for the wounded—not a shield for wrongdoing. By standing with survivors, pursuing justice, and prioritizing transparency, the faith community can reflect the light of Christ in the midst of darkness.
Again, while the allegations against Joni Lamb remain unresolved, the broader lesson is clear: the body of Christ cannot afford complacency. The stakes are too high. Inaction perpetuates harm, but accountability can lead to healing and restoration.
