The old saying, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is never truer than in situations involving abuse. The deep hurt and devastation left in the wake of an abusive incident leaves scars that last in individual relationships, in families and in church communities. Rather than dealing with the aftermath, wouldn’t it be wiser to stop the abuse before it starts?

What can my church do to help PREVENT abuse?

1. Break the silence – Abuse thrives in silence and secrecy. An environment that encourages open dialog and communication about personal and sensitive issues will foster healthy, authentic relationships. We put windows in the doors of our classrooms for safety. We need to have windows into our lives as well.
2. Be open to learning – Knowing the facts and the dynamics of abuse will lead to appropriate response, support and referral. We will recognize the signs and know what to watch for. Opportunities for learning can include preaching, workshops, testimonials and special events and should be offered regularly.
3. Make primary prevention a part of ministry – Be proactive in promoting and modeling healthy relationships as well as providing explicit teaching.

How can primary prevention infused into our church ministry?

• Participate in Abuse Awareness Sunday (the 4th Sunday each September; find resources on our website that can be used any time).
• Make it public from the pulpit with regular preaching or inviting a guest speaker on issues surrounding abuse (domestic violence, bullying, internet safety, etc.).
• Offer prayers for those who struggle with issues of abuse and those who work to help them and to prevent abuse.
• Use articles, outside resources, testimonials, or Bible studies about relationship abuse as a springboard for small group interaction and discussion. (Check the Safe Church website and look under group discussion resources.)
• Show support for community efforts. Many community events take place during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Child Abuse Awareness Month, Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Take Back the Night, etc. Or participate in a fundraiser, or volunteer for a local shelter.
• Write newsletter articles or post blogs on topics related to abuse awareness.
• Train Stephens Ministers, peer counselors, elders and pastoral staff to mentor and encourage those who struggle with abuse, either as victims or as perpetrators. (This is NOT a substitute for professional help which may also be needed – church mentors can play a key role walking alongside people on a journey toward healing and wholeness.)
• Use age-appropriate lessons for every age group that promote mutual respect in relationships. Involve teachers, youth leaders and parents in facilitating the curriculum (Consider the Safe Keeping curriculum offered from Faith Alive Christian Resources.)