Churches generally strive to be a place where its congregants can feel a sense of belonging in a safe environment. But some survivors of sexual abuse struggle to find healing in their places of worship. To create safe environments for adult survivors of sexual violence, congregations need to be much more proactive, says Linda Crockett, founder and director of Safe Communities, a local organization that works to support survivors.
Sexual abuse, she says, is not a subject pastors often preach about from the pulpit. She also says people are reluctant to openly discuss it in church, and most congregations aren t aware of how certain language, interactions and worship practices may traumatize survivors.
For faith communities, pandemic meant challenge, creativity
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For faith communities, pandemic meant challenge, creativity
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Updated: 3:16 PM CST December 19, 2020
MIDLAND, Texas The Samaritan Counseling Center of West Texas will recognize about 200 people who have participated in the Samaritan Heroes program.
There will be two public displays in Midland and Odessa. The ceremony will be available online.
Usually the center celebrates Families and Samaritans of the Year typically, but with the pandemic this year, they decided to introduce a new program called Samaritan Heroes.
In September, the center asked residents of West Texas to nominate people who have performed good deeds or acts of kindness.
They narrowed the nominated residents to 200 people and their names will be displayed at the Music City Mall and Midland City Mall.