Safe Church Not Alone: #ChurchToo & #WeAreSpeaking in the Body of Christ

It is helpful to know other denominations continue to faithfully work at creating safe communities for all, as we too strive to create awareness of abuse, prevent abuse of all kinds, and bring about God's healing when harm has occurred. 

In Canada, the Mennonite Central Committee promotes the Circle of Grace program as well as other educational resources. They are adding their #MeToo stories, lamenting how experiences of abuse are found amidst their ministries. Together with Canadian theatre company, Theatre of the Beat, they are presenting performances of #ChurchToo across Canada this fall. Nine playwrights from across North America have each written a scene to explore the realities of sexual misconduct, power, and abuse within our church communities. 

Although the stories arise from the Mennonite context, your safe church teams might appreciate the recognition that nobody is alone in the Body of Christ and together we strive for God’s kingdom where all will have safety. They have been performing across Canada this fall, and have some dates to come throughout November and December. Bring yourselves and your Safe Church Team Members, friends, ministers, and church leaders along and let us know what you think!

The Reformed Church of America has raised their voice in saying: "For far too long, stories of harassment, abuse, and sexual violence against women and girls have been marginalized, silenced, mocked, and ridiculed. And this has been no different in the church. The #metoo and #churchtoo movements have given voice to these stories of pain and made clear their pervasiveness. The culture is finally shifting and in this powerful moment, silence is not an option for the church. We in the Reformed Church in America are ready to respond. We are listening. We are speaking. And we are committed to taking action. God has called us for such a time as this, to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, urging us forward. Let's speak together." Watch their powerful call to action below. 

May Christians across North America and around the world continue to raise their voices so all of God's beloved people might live in safety with respect and dignity.