Commonly Asked Questions
Sexual Abuse in Churches raises many questions, contradictions and tensions especially for people impacted or who witness its effects. On the one hand, Churches promote a 'moral' compass for living. Yet, on the other hand, Churches and other faith-settings are known to be high-risk contexts for abuse to occur.
The booklet "Sexual Abuse: A 'How to Help' Guide for Victms, parents of Victims and Congregations", produced by Safe Place Services (and revised May 2012), covers many common questions people have such as:
- What is sexual abuse?
- Is child sexual abuse common in Christian communities?
- Who are the abusers?
- Why don't children tell about the abuse?
- What are common 'myths' about victims?
The booklet explores misconceptions around forgiveness and discusses how to cope with some of the common 'fallout' that victims and their friends/family typically experience in a local congregation after a situation of abuse becomes known. Tips for ministers and congregations responding are covered.
Download the booklet (732 KB in PDF format) by clicking here (opens in a new page, or 'right click' and select 'save as' to set destination for download).
