Abuse prevention in Christian communities

Established by The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada in 2021, the Abuse Awareness and Prevention Network helps equip denominations, congregations, schools, camps and ministries with best practices and resources.

As new reports of abuse within ministry settings continue to surface, two leading areas of concern among network members are spiritual abuse and abuse of power.

Members are also identifying other priorities through ongoing conversations and consultations with people who work in ministry settings, especially among vulnerable populations and those at risk of experiencing abuse.

Dealing with abuse starts for most organizations with an abuse policy, which “should help to clarify when, how and who to contact in response to all forms of abuse,” says network member Steve Snider, director of workplace learning for Karis Disability Services (formerly Christian Horizons).

Just having an abuse policy in place, though, is not enough. The network continues to highlight gaps such as the need for more nuanced awareness, prevention and response to various forms of abuse.

The network’s primary aim now is the establishment of a centralized resource hub for trustworthy training. Members also see a need for ongoing networking and resource sharing, especially around distinct forms of abuse and vulnerable populations.

At its Abuse Awareness and Prevention conference slated for June 14 in Toronto, the network plans to record presentations by a diverse slate of speakers for use in an accessible video training series for Christian leaders and volunteers. Up-todate, video-based content produced for Canadians is a significant gap many leaders have identified.

The desire for proactive change is strong among members. Through collaboration, education and unwavering compassion, ministries can be better equipped to help every story find a safe and supportive space to be heard and healed.

“Ministry leaders need to be able to effectively differentiate between respect, disrespect and acts of abuse. If an act of abuse might violate the criminal code, police must be contacted.” –Steve Snider