The Justice Commission

Allegations of Misconduct at Aquila Villa: Summary and Conclusion

The Justice Commission conducted an investigation into alleged misconduct at Aquila Villa, now called Stories Made New, a residential ministry for young women founded by Melvin and Barbara Esh in Ronks, Pennsylvania. Former residents and matrons described serious concerns about the culture and leadership inside the home.

Major Allegations

Unhealthy favoritism and blurred “family” roles. Multiple women reported that Mel and Barbie openly called select women “daughters,” granting special access and attention while others were sidelined. This created a climate of comparison, confusion, and pain among staff and residents.

Inappropriate relationships involving Mel. Accounts included prolonged hugs, intimate handholding at coffee outings, a request for foot massages, intense eye contact, comments on women’s bodies and beauty, and frequent emotionally charged messages. Several women said counseling occurred alone with the door closed, with close physical proximity that made them feel unsafe. One woman described a blanket placed over both laps during an outing. Others described very long hugs. Some also reported Mel touching himself through his pockets during one on one sessions, which left them fearful and confused.

Emotional entanglement. Several women said the dynamic crossed into emotional intimacy that felt like an emotional affair disguised as “fatherly” care, including repeated comments that they were “beautiful handmaidens of the Lord.”

Control, manipulation, and secrecy. Former residents and matrons described rigid rules and surveillance that isolated them from outside support. Reported rules included timed showers, supervised phone calls, restrictions on walking outside or upstairs alone, and strict limits on what could be discussed with others, even with designated support people. The effect was dependence on Mel and Barbie and a breakdown of private, safe communication.

Inappropriate counseling methods and lack of training. Women reported one on one counseling with Mel behind closed doors, poor boundaries, and approaches that minimized trauma. Sources emphasized that leadership and staff lacked appropriate training for trauma informed care. Publication of residents’ photos in newsletters raised additional confidentiality concerns.

Conclusion

On September 5, 2024 we briefed the board and new administrators about these findings. Melvin and Barbara Esh resigned the following day. The board issued this statement:

“As a board we have been made aware of these allegations and we are making changes in the organization, leadership, structure, and approach to ministry. We are grieved by the hurt that has occurred. The resignation of Mel and Barb Esh has been accepted. We appreciate the input and help from various sources as we seek to fulfill the vision of Stories Made New to bring single women who are struggling into fulfillment and purpose in Jesus Christ.”

Stories Made New, Board of Directors

We will continue to monitor any steps the board takes and to advocate for policies that protect vulnerable women in residential ministries.

One year update

As of September 2025, Stories Made New is operating under administrators Ernest and Yvonne Witmer. The board has implemented new policies and safeguards to ensure safety for residents and staff. Most importantly, Stories Made New has partnered with Door of Hope to provide independent third-party counseling to residents. Stories Made New has also moved into a new facility in Ephrata, Pennsylvania, that is not owned by or affiliated with Melvin and Barbara Esh.

To view the full report including expert and witness statements, click the link below.