Youth Pastor Joshua Wesely Sparks Outrage with Instagram Post Celebrating Girlfriend's 18th Birthday

Controversy has erupted online after a social media post by youth pastor Joshua Wesely went viral, drawing widespread criticism and concern. The post, which features a celebratory image and an eyebrow-raising caption, has led many to question the appropriateness of the relationship depicted.

The image in question is a composite of a Twitter post and an Instagram post. The Twitter post, shared by Amir Talai (@AmirTalai) on February 20, 2023, reads: "Youth Pastor. And we're out here calling drag queens groomers." This caption alone has sparked a heated debate, but it is the accompanying Instagram post that has truly inflamed public opinion.

In the Instagram post, Joshua Wesely (@joshua_wesely) is seen standing closely with a young woman, both holding large metallic balloon numbers "1" and "8," signifying her 18th birthday. The man, dressed in a light-colored shirt and jeans, and the young woman, in dark pants and a light top, appear to be in high spirits, smiling for the camera in a warmly lit room adorned with curtains and various decor.

The caption beneath the Instagram photo reads: "Finally 18 😍🤯❤️ I can't describe with words what you mean to me and what kind of person you are. You have been my best friend for 4 years, you are my girlfriend that I love, appreciate, respect." This post has garnered 175 likes but has also ignited a storm of backlash.

Comments on Reddit and other social media platforms have been scathing. One user remarked, "According to Reddit, he was 20 when they met and she was 14. So she was in 8th/9th grade. Oh wait, apparently, he was her camp counselor when she was in 6th grade." Another comment read, "And that poor girl's parents did NOTHING to stop it - or even encouraged it. They should also be held accountable for this grooming and indoctrination."

Further fueling the outrage, a commenter noted, "Yo this dude was first bragging about being into her when he was 19 and she was 13, and no one in their community put a stop to that! Christians need to get their house in order. Y'all are lost." The criticism continued with another user stating, "He’s a hardcore German conspiracy theorist, he's made movies about how by 2025 Christianity would be outlawed because COVID was a hoax, and by her 18th birthday, he was saying happy 4 year anniversary."

The community's anger is palpable, with many calling for accountability. Comments like "Jail this man. Protect our kids," and "Youth pastor? More like youth smasher," highlight the public's demand for justice and protection for the young woman involved.

This incident has brought to light serious questions about the responsibilities and moral conduct of those in positions of influence over young people. As the conversation continues, it underscores the need for vigilance and action in safeguarding the welfare of minors.