…one of the most disturbing topics in our culture today… Call It Anything But Love! has an emotional punch yet still manages to challenge our deepest, most profound beliefs—Martin Doblmeier, filmmaker Journey Films

The Hope of Survivors presents Call It Anything But Love!—a film about pastoral sexual abuse, written and produced by Steve Nelson.

Call It Anything But Love! is a true story of a couple’s struggles and challenges as they overcome their painful pasts to find themselves in a spider’s web of lies, deceit, adultery and abuse—at the hands of their pastor.

Film Synopsis

Call It Anything But Love! is the stunning achievement of Steve and Samantha Nelson, as they invite us on a journey through the darkest period of their lives. Their incredible and disturbing story offers context for the all too common, and widely misunderstood, topic of pastoral sexual abuse. This poignant illustration brings answers to the troubling questions we’ve all asked—Why? How? Who?

Steve Nelson displays his immense talent, acting as the films’ producer, director, editor, and videographer. The result is an artistic and personal expression of a pilgrimage from despair to hope.

In front of the camera, Samantha personifies every victim, while Steve compels us, as the strong and gentle hero. Through both unique perspectives, we are able to understand the destructive impact that pastoral sexual abuse has on every person involved.

Vulnerable and refreshingly honest, the Nelsons’ inspire within us all, no matter our struggle, the courage and faith to overcome.

For more information about the film, please click here.