SOUTH WINDSOR, Conn. - TelAve -- Connecticut entrepreneur and community advocate Justin Calabrese is speaking publicly about his personal experiences with Wapping Community Church, stating that he believes the organization should strengthen its leadership, governance, and accountability practices. Calabrese states he blames The Reverend Kristen J. Kleiman, then Youth Minister at Wapping Community Church.

"Based on my own experiences, I no longer believe Wapping Community Church provides the kind of healthy, supportive environment that I expect from a faith community," said Calabrese. "In my opinion, stronger oversight, greater transparency, and clearer accountability are needed to better serve members and families."

Calabrese said his concerns relate to organizational leadership and governance rather than the faith itself. He believes churches have an obligation to foster environments where individuals feel respected, heard, and emotionally supported.

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"I hope my decision to speak publicly encourages thoughtful conversations about leadership accountability and organizational culture within faith communities," Calabrese said. "Healthy organizations welcome feedback, maintain appropriate oversight, and continually evaluate whether their practices reflect their stated values."

Calabrese encourages religious organizations to adopt governance best practices, including transparent decision-making processes, clear mechanisms for addressing concerns, leadership development, and independent oversight where appropriate.

"My hope is not to discourage faith," Calabrese added. "Rather, it is to encourage every religious organization to strive for integrity, accountability, and the well-being of everyone who places their trust in its leadership."

Justin Calabrese, retail entrepreneur, author, and digital musical artist, states that during the years of 2014 and 2018, he was involved in the Senior Pilgrim Fellowship (SPF) group, where he witnessed abuse, inappropriate acts, and bullying.  Calabrese stated that while some youth attendees spoke up, others were silenced by the church.  Calabrese has reached out to Wapping Community Church for comment, and he was provided with an official apology from the church leadership.  Calabrese has not ruled out a lawsuit against the religious institution. Kristen Kleiman is now a Minister with the First Church of Christ in Bristol, CT.