Join SBC Voices at the SBC Annual meeting for the breakout seminar “Understanding Adult Sexual Abuse.” Taking place on Tuesday evening from 7-8:30 pm in room 208 of the Convention hall, this engaging session aims to shed light on the complexities of adult sexual abuse, with a focus on clergy abuse. Attendees will gain valuable insights into this sensitive issue, learn strategies to support survivors, promote healing, and prevent future occurrences. Don’t miss this informative event.
Key Topics to be Covered:
- Defining Adult Sexual Abuse:
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- Understanding the different forms and manifestations of adult sexual abuse
- Differentiating between consensual and non-consensual sexual activities in adulthood
- Dynamics and Perpetrators:
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- Analyzing power dynamics and control in adult sexual abuse situations
- Discussing the profiles of perpetrators and their predatory tactics
- Addressing common misconceptions and societal attitudes that contribute to victim blaming
- Trauma and Recovery:
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- Understanding the psychological trauma experienced by adult survivors
- Introducing trauma-informed approaches to support survivors’ healing process
- Theological Considerations:
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- Understanding adult sexual abuse from a biblical perspective
- The role and responsibility of pastors in preventing abuse
- Promoting healthy relationships, consent, and boundary-setting
- Empowering individuals to recognize signs of abuse and intervene effectively
- Institutional response
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- The responsibility of churches when abuse is disclosed
- Providing support services for adult survivors.
- Identifying community organizations, helplines, and counseling centers.
- Providing guidance on how to create safe spaces and support networks for survivors.
The seminar will showcase presentations from our engaging speakers and include an insightful interview with a survivor couple.
Dr. Heather Evans is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a private group counseling practice in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania, with over 20 years’ experience providing therapy, particularly specializing in sexual trauma and sex trafficking. Heather has authored two books from her research on complex trauma and posttraumatic growth in sex trafficking survivors. She is Co-Founder of Valley Against Sex Trafficking in Pennsylvania and adjunct professor of Global Trauma Recovery Institute, traveling internationally to train trauma healing caregivers.
Chellee Taylor is a survivor advocate and SBC adult clergy sexual abuse survivor. She is an emerging voice in the survivor community sharing her own story of abuse and educating pastors, churches, and lay people on the dynamics of adult abuse and the need for healthy institutional response by churches.
Dr. Todd Benkert is a pastor in North Central Indiana and a professor of theology and biblical studies at Liberty University. Inspired by personal experiences, he has become a dedicated ally and passionate advocate for abuse survivors, actively participating in abuse reforms within the SBC. With a profound understanding of the impact of trauma, Todd educates others on the dynamics of sexual abuse and promotes the integration of trauma-informed practices into ministry.
This seminar is designed for pastors, church leaders, and Christian individuals seeking a deeper understanding of adult abuse. It aims to cultivate empathy, knowledge, and collaboration among believers who are committed to addressing this issue within a Christian worldview. Attendees will gain valuable insights to prevent abuse, minister effectively to survivors, and create safer church environments.
Note: This seminar will approach the topic of adult sexual abuse with sensitivity and respect for survivors. It will prioritize survivor-centric perspectives and emphasize the importance of consent, confidentiality, and trauma-informed care throughout the event.