On September 27, 2019, Covenant Eyes lost a dear friend and ally in the fight against pornography. Dr. Mark Laaser, M.Div., Ph.D., fought cancer bravely until his last day. He was 69 years old.
Mark and his wife Debbie founded Faithful and True, a Minnesota-based organization that helps sexually addicted men, supports hurting wives, and gives guidance to couples. They’ve written more than 15 books on sexual addiction and served together for more than 30 years.
Dr. Laaser’s testimony began with his own trauma of sexual abuse before he began grade school. He turned to pornography to deal with his shame and as a way to find acceptance. He would steal pornographic magazines from his local drug store at 11 years old.
He thought getting married would take away his addiction. He thought going to seminary would take away his addiction. But they didn’t. It was the intervention of peers that brought his struggle to light and caused him to tell his wife of his sexual sins.
Dr. Laaser said the first time he saw the face of grace was when a recovering alcoholic told him that Mark’s sexual sins were no worse that the sin of alcoholism. That same day, Mark confessed his sexual sins to his wife, who told him, “We’ll get through this.” That was the second time he saw the face of grace.
Mark went through treatment, became sober in March of 1987, and remained that way until the end.
Dr. Laaser stood shoulder to shoulder with Covenant Eyes in the belief that accountability and transparency crushes the power of shame and helps people heal.
We encourage you to watch the final video interview Covenant Eyes conducted with Dr. Mark Laaser. This interview was filmed at the 2018 National American Association of Christian Counsellors (AACC) Conference in Dallas, TX.
You will be missed, Dr. Laaser!
In 2004 I concluded my Doctor of Ministry project with Denver Seminary in creating the Valiant Man course with men in my home church in Melbourne, Australia. Dr Laaser was asked to be one of my three readers. His wisdom and encouragement was so valuable and precious I will always hold him in my heart with gratitude.
Although I have never met Mark or Debbie Laaser, I have read and listened to much of their teaching. Mark was one of the humblest, grace-filled people I have ever heard. God used his pain to touch many lives, including mine!
My husband (now deceased) had a terrible sexual addiction. He suffered greatly for a long time until one day when I discover Dr. Laaser’s book. I emailed Dr. Laaser and he helped me get my husband into treatment in Kentucky. (This was many years ago.) I will always remember and appreciate him for his help. Life was hell for my husband and me, and Dr.Laaser’s concern and compassion made a difference.
Mark’s first book Faithful and True was key to my early recovery back in the 90’s and I am grateful for his life and work.