5LQ Episode 348: Scott McConnell – Research on Sexual Abuse in the Church

In this episode of the 5 Leadership Questions podcast, Todd Adkins and Daniel Im are joined by Scott McConnell, Executive Director of Lifeway Research. During their conversation, they discuss the following questions: Why this research? What are the common beliefs and misconceptions about sexual misconduct in the church? What surprised you the most about the research? What’s the biggest take away for church leaders? What can churches do now in light of this? BEST QUOTES “Lifeway funded this study and we surveyed 1800 protestant churchgoers to really understand their perspective on this topic.” “9 out of 10 church attendees believe the church would be a place for them to heal from sexual assault.” “Three-fourths of church attendees believe that if somebody brought allegations within the church that they had been assaulted that they would be believed in that context.” “We talk about the church being a place for healing, but only about 1 out of 6 people say they know someone in the church that has experienced assault.” “94% agree that women are valued in the church.” “17% say that some hugs at church seem like more than just a greeting.” “Almost 1 out of 5 churches rarely talk about sex.” “8 out of 10 church attendees don’t remember their pastor discussing sexual assault in a sermon.” “We need to be looking at everyone as a creation of God and cannot be crossing those lines.” “4% of churchgoers knew someone who had crossed the line as an assailant and it had not come to light yet.” “32% of churchgoers believe that many more pastors will be found to have abused children or teens than have come to light so far.” “It is important for churches to be proactive in trying to protect children and adults from sexual misconduct.” “The best thing you can do for newcomers is to help them see the safety that there is in dropping their kids off.” RECOMMENDED RESOURCES Lifeway Leadership Podcast Network 5LQ Episode 278: Scott McConnell on VBS Research 5LQ Episode 294: Scott McConnell on Bible Research 5LQ Episode 299: Research on the Unchurched 5LQ Episode 305: The State of Theology Text “research” to 888111 to receive a link to download this research Lifeway Research Study Results Ministry Grid Abuse Prevention and Response Training Church Cares Making Disciples Podcast This Episode’s Sponsor: Feeling unequipped for marriage ministry? Woo Marriage is here to help. Backed by research and designed with your church in mind, Woo Marriage provides Christ-centered marriage coaching for your entire church. Get your first month free with offer code LEADERSHIP at WooMarriage.com/FreeTrial.