A self-described “spiritual advisor” to anti-abortion murderers, who took advantage of troubled teens
John Allen Burt, born on March 26, 1938, in the United States, and passing away on April 19, 2013, in Florida, was a figure deeply entrenched in controversy throughout his life. Initially embarking on a path marked by dedication to Christian fundamentalism and anti-abortion activism, Burt’s life took a dark turn that led to his conviction for serious criminal activities. His early years were characterized by a struggle with alcoholism and drug addiction, which ceased following his conversion to born-again Christianity. However, his life was marred by his subsequent actions and the company he kept, notably aligning himself with individuals who committed violent acts against abortion providers.
Burt’s journey into notoriety began with his involvement in the anti-abortion movement during the 1980s and 1990s, where he positioned himself as a “spiritual adviser” to individuals such as Michael Griffin and Paul Hill, both of whom murdered abortion doctors. Burt was known for his extreme activism, which included trespassing on clinic properties and engaging in violent protests that led to his arrest on multiple occasions.
In a significant chapter of his life, Burt founded “Our Father’s House,” initially conceived as a Christian ministry and shelter for unwed mothers. This endeavor later evolved into a private religious reformatory boarding school for “troubled” teenage girls. It was within this context that Burt committed the crimes that would lead to his downfall. In 2003, he was arrested for molesting a 15-year-old girl residing in his shelter, marking the beginning of the end of his public life. His trial revealed a pattern of predatory behavior, culminating in a conviction on multiple charges of molestation. Burt was sentenced to 18 years in prison, where he would eventually die.
image via Wikimedia Commons
