An Ounce of Prevention
Abuse is not always physical or sexual; there are many other ways that power and control can be maintained in a relationship.
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Abuse is not always physical or sexual; there are many other ways that power and control can be maintained in a relationship.
Explain to children that, if they think that they are being abused, they need to tell someone they trust. Urge them never to keep abuse a secret, even if the person hurting them tells them that something bad will happen if they tell.
Synod has encouraged each classis to have a Safe Church team made up of representatives from each church. The team is a resource to churches, can support local churches in creating safety at the congregational level and empowers churches to be a support to individuals affected by abuse.
Churches and caring individuals can help stop elder abuse and mistreatment in their families and the community. Stand up for vulnerable adults in your neighborhoods and congregation.
An emotional abuser intentionally and repeatedly threatens or says harsh words to wear another person down. Once worn down, the victim will try to avoid hearing the threats or nasty words again by doing what the abuser asks.
Children living with disabilities are more likely to be abused. An article states that one in three children with an identified disability for which they receive special education services are victims of some type of maltreatment compared to one in 10 nondisabled children.
We can let people know that we are Christians who care about abuse, who want to see it end, and so does Jesus.
Despite the abundance of evidence showing that teen dating violence is a serious issue in North America, awareness of the problem is low. According to The Rave Project, teen dating violence is more common than you might think. Here are some surprising facts about teen dating violence...
"These are the ‘CAPE-abilities’ that can interrupt and prevent abusive behavior and help those recover who have experienced abuse." - World Institute on Disability
"Maybe we’ve focused so much on trying to keep children from becoming victims that we’ve forgotten to teach them not to be perpetrators." Let’s stop assuming that children know these values intuitively and realize we need to teach them explicitly.
Now is the time to think and prepare for next year.
Remember that being in this situation is not your fault! Be true to yourself.
"What could possibly happen when you combine a little glue and glitter along with energetic kids and well-meaning volunteers?" A bit of planning will ensure that the environment you provide is secure and safe for all of the children who attend your VBS.
This short video and another helpful webinar will educate your congregation about abuse prevention and why it matters.
In my community, the tragic consequences of cyber-bullying have been front page news.
Should regular boundary training be required for CRC pastors? Should the CRC adopt a code of ethical conduct for its pastors?
Get started on your screening today! Your congregation will be a safer place because of your efforts.
According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), between 2011 and 2020, more than 140 million girls will become child brides.
At times it may seem that the person being abused doesn’t want help, but consider that the individual may be too scared to even consider reaching out to someone.
If boundaries are less about rigid rules and more about a way of thinking about relationship; then what principles should serve to guide a ministry leader in setting helpful boundaries?
"Churches are natural targets for sexual predators ... What is really needed is a healthy suspicion of human frailty, our own as well as others." - Bob Harvey, Faith Today
Pay attention and report adults who repeatedly break boundaries and engage in inappropriate behaviour with children. Here are some helpful tips to reduce the risks of child sexual abuse.
"[Your church's] abuse prevention policy should confirm your organization’s commitment to providing a safe environment for children and declare zero tolerance for abuse, harassment or neglect committed by any children’s or youth ministry worker, including employees, members and volunteers." - Robertson Hall Insurance
What to do? We’d rather not think about it – but that won’t stop those with a criminal sexual history from attending our church. To ignore, or not even consider the issue may be the most dangerous option of all.
Wherever we find ourselves right now, we must keep the long view in mind. Our strength lies in humility, trust, and patience through trials.