I guess I’m jaded. I’ve seen so many stories of Christian leaders falling, that when I hear of another one, I’m almost complacent. That’s how I felt when I saw the news about Jerry Falwell Jr. Even with the eye-popping allegations against the former Liberty University president and his wife, I almost shrugged it off.

“It’s embarrassing,” I said to my wife, “But hardly surprising.”

I was wrong to be so cavalier. Leaders never fall alone; they bring a lot of other people, and even whole institutions, down with them. I was reminder of these consequences as I read Hannah Anderson’s article, “What Happens at Liberty Doesn’t Stay at Liberty.” Anderson writes “This scandal and its ensuing investigation have far-reaching consequences, not only for parachurch practice but also for local church polity.” Read her story to get a greater understanding of why this story—and others like it—bring such heartache and loss. Also, check out When a Leader Falls. This resource offers hard-won wisdom on how to respond to a moral failing in your church’s leadership, and how to chart the path toward healing.