(RNS) A former president of the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah, is accused of sexual misconduct, which he appears to admit in a leaked interview. Meanwhile, his family points to the accuser's own checkered history of alleged fraud and run-ins with the police.

While the predatory sexual behavior of this bishop occurred in his home and car, and not in the church building, Mormon cultural practice certainly paved the way for him to have time alone with his victims. Our controversial practice of sending teenagers alone into a room with a bishop for an “interview” that can include questions about sexual behavior gives teens the message that they are not fully in charge of their bodies. Moreover, our religion’s emphasis on obeying those in authority leaves little room to resist when leaders abuse their trust.