All Sexual abuse articles
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OpinionWestminster abuse allegations are in the headlines. But our churches need to change too
Former MP Nadine Dorries’ new book contains a series of shocking allegations of rape, sexual abuse and misogyny in the halls of Westminster. Tragically, it’s nothing new, says Bekah Legg. Christians and churches need to equip themselves to respond appropriately
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OpinionAbuse and violence against women is rife. Why does it keep happening?
From Lawrence Fox’s misogynistic comments to allegations against Russell Brand and the murder of Elianne Andam, there is one common thread. Men who see women as objects. It isn’t how God created us, says Bekah Legg
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ReviewsThe Secrets of Hillsong
The latest TV docuseries to scrutinise Hillsong’s failings is the most thorough and fairest yet. As Carl Lentz gives his first interview since being fired from the megachurch, Sam Hailes argues that we can’t blame the media for wanting to shine a light on abuse and moral failings in the Church. It’s time to learn the lessons
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Magazine FeaturesI used to be Ravi Zacharias’ spokesperson. Here’s what I’ve learned about complicity and corruption
Ruth Malhotra was working as Ravi Zacharias’ spokesperson when abuse allegations were first made against the apologist. The revelations began a journey that would take her from spokesperson to whistleblower to advocate
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OpinionPastors guilty of sexual abuse should never be restored to ministry
High profile US pastor Johnny Hunt was restored to ministry despite serious allegations of sexual misconduct. What happened to permanent disqualification, asks Beth Allison Barr. And what does it say to the women in their congregations?
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OpinionI offered free domestic violence training to the churches in my town - but not one man came
On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, Sally Hope asks: How can we end violence against women if men won’t engage?
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OpinionChildren are still being groomed, raped and exploited in Church. Things must change
The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse identified a ”callous indifference” to the suffering of victims in a Church that prefers to protect its own reputation over the most vulnerable in its flock, says Samantha Smith
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Real Life‘I was abused for a decade and made to feel it was my fault’
As the damning report into the sexual exploitation of children in Telford is finally released, 20-year-old Samantha Smith shares her story of grooming and abuse, and how her faith is slowly helping her through it
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Magazine FeaturesIs complementarian theology abusive?
In the wake of abuse scandals and the #MeToo movement, Megan Cornwell asks: is it time for Christians to re-evaluate Church teaching on gender roles?
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Opinion‘We tried to tell you for years and years’: How the Southern Baptist Church woefully failed abuse survivors
For decades, sexual abuse in the largest US Protestant denomination, the Southern Baptist Convention, was covered up by church leaders. Survivors, many of whom were assaulted as children, were treated appallingly, says Rachael Denhollander, who has been working to hold SBC to account
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OpinionTriggered by scripture? This version of the Bible could help you
While supporting survivors of abuse, pastor Mike Leake found Eugene Peterson’s The Message translation of the Bible instrumental in their healing journey
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News AnalysisBruxy Cavey confessed to an affair. But Christian leaders say his sin is worse
Bruxy Cavey has admitted infidelity and resigned from leading his Canadian megachurch. But other Christian leaders say his 'confession' does not go far enough. Heather Tomlinson looks at how attitudes are changing when it comes to what constitutes abuse in church settings.
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TestimoniesI was a heroin addict but Jesus turned my life around. Now I'm helping others make a fresh start
Chaz was sexually abused as a child, addicted to heroin and has spent twelve years in prison. Yet thanks to a fresh start at a Christian housing project, he has turned his life around. Now, he’s doing the same for others
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OpinionThe sexual abuse inquiry was right: Churches of all denominations must do more to safeguard children
Baptist, Methodist and independent evangelical churches have all come under scrutiny
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ReviewsI am Danielle: This drama starring Letitia Wright raises a huge question for Christians
In a recent interview for her new Channel 4 drama, I am Danielle, Letitia Wright told journalists that her hope lay in Jesus. When dealing with the dark themes and impossible questions that this story raises, I am glad that mine does too, says Lauren Windle
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News AnalysisExplained: Why Hillsong’s Brian Houston has been charged with covering up sex abuse
22 years ago, Brian Houston dismissed his father from church leadership, after Frank Houston admitted sexually abusing a boy. But Australian police allege Brian failed to report the abuse, and have charged him with knowingly concealing information relating to child sexual offences. Marcus Jones explains more
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Magazine FeaturesWhy abuse in church is worse than you thought
Michele Guinness shares her story of sexual abuse, and says every Christian must play their part in forging a new culture of respect between men and women
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OpinionThese horrific statistics prove Christian men must stand against sexism
1 in 4 churchgoers have experienced abuse within an intimate relationship. And almost all of the women you know have been sexually harassed at some point in their lives, says Bekah Legg
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OpinionThis woman's speech to her abuser on God's grace isn't easy to watch. But you should
Rachael Denhollander's victim statement is an object lesson in graceful determination, and we should all watch it, says Emma Fowle
