Nate Phelps, estranged son of Fred Phelps, speaks

April 21, 2:59 PMAtheism ExaminerTrina Hoaks

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As I have mentioned in previous articles, Nate Phelps, who is the estranged son of the infamous religious zealot, Fred Phelps, spoke at the American Atheists convention that was held the weekend before last in Atlanta.

I was disappointed to have missed his presentation (an interview I was doing ran long), which so many people referred to as "moving." Now, finally, I have had the chance to at least read what Nate prepared and delivered before the packed room. And now I understand why at least two people told me they left during his speech and why he received two standing ovations.

It was difficult enough to read. I can only imagine what it must have been like to listen to him share his story. What's more, I can't imagine what it must have been like to have lived Nate's life.

Nate has posted the transcript of his speech exclusively on Atheist Nexus, which is a community (similar to Facebook) of non-believers. It is a heartbreaking story that tells of physical and mental abuse suffered by him, his siblings, and his mother at the hands of his father - a tyrannical "man of God." 

Also, in conjunction with Brother Richard, founder of Atheist Nexus and NoGodTube, Nate has formed a Nexus support group to "help others find life after Christian fundamentalism." The group is called "Life after Christian Fundamentalism."

I won't even try to quote or discuss Nate's story. It is one that I could never do justice to. Rather, I encourage you all to take a few minutes to read Nate's story. In addition, it is worth the time to read his posting about his before and after experiences of delivering his speech.