Responding to Sexual Abuse 4

All this week we’re looking at how our churches should respond to the epidemic of childhood sexual abuse. Today’s advice? Don’t fall into the trap of believing that you have the knowledge and ability to intervene and do what needs to be done from start to finish. Trained and competent counselors must be employed to work with the victims and the perpetrator. Law enforcement officials must be informed immediately. Harvest USA, a ministry dealing with the scourge of sexual sin and brokenness, has a list of goals for the redemptive process. First, protect the minor child. Second, honor the laws of the state. Third, begin to repair the damage. Fourth, enable the perpetrator to face the consequences of his or her actions. Fifth, maintain the purity of the Church if the person is a part of the church. And sixth, maintain the purity of the witness of Christ in the community.