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WATCH: A Phelps Family Member on Leaving the Church

WATCH: A Phelps Family Member on Leaving the Church

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A former member of the Westboro Baptist Church, known for its extreme antigay views, talked with Rosie O'Donnell about being convinced he was going to hell after leaving the family behind.

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A former member of the Westboro Baptist Church, known for its extreme antigay views, talked with Rosie O'Donnell about being convinced he was going to hell after leaving the Phelps family behind.

"I don't know if you ever work through it," said Nate Phelps on The Rosie Show of dealing with being raised in the Westboro Baptist Church. He was in a mental health facility, got counseling, and says he learned to "avoid thinking about it."

Even now, Phelps says he worries about being a good father to his own son.

"To this day, I am worried about that," he told O'Donnell. "You don't realize how many ideas you carry with you into adulthood that are just back there and are part of your basic makeup."

Watch highlights of the Phelps interview below, plus reaction from current members of the church. Also, on the following page, hear from Randy Roberts Potts on how he has moved away from the legacy of the Oral Roberts ministry.

Randy Roberts Potts on His Childhood

Randy Roberts Potts, grandson of the late controversial televangelist Oral Roberts, discusses his upbringing in the Roberts family compound.

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Lucas Grindley

Lucas Grindley is VP and Editorial Director for Here Media, which is parent company to The Advocate. His Twitter account is filled with politics, Philip Glass appreciation, and adorable photos of his twin toddler daughters.
Lucas Grindley is VP and Editorial Director for Here Media, which is parent company to The Advocate. His Twitter account is filled with politics, Philip Glass appreciation, and adorable photos of his twin toddler daughters.