Guest Column: Open Your Eyes
By Ryan Ferguson
One certainty transcends differences between these churches. One stark reality should cause the eyes of Greenville’s ministers to see their people with greater compassion. In every one of these congregations, ministry leaders stand in front of survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Unfortunately the church is not necessarily known as a safe place for those who have been hurt by this crime. Rather than leading the charge the church is scandalized by reports of abuse within her ranks. Instead of seeking justice and providing safe, healing environments for survivors and their families, the church has become known for its cover ups and lack of competence and compassion when caring for those hurt by sexual abuse. This must change. Church leaders must open their eyes to this issue and begin to address it. For many, addressing childhood sexual abuse will start with an admission that they need help because they don’t know what to do. For others, simple dialogue will be the first step. Talking about the issue of childhood sexual abuse will not only serve those who have already been hurt but will begin a process for future prevention and protection of children. Church leaders must act in concert with others rather than in isolation when sexual abuse occurs. Church leaders must not isolate themselves from law enforcement or other organizations that can assist them with a proper response. In an effort to begin the dialogue in the greater Greenville region, North Hills Community Church will be hosting a conference on Sept. 20 and 21 called Open Your Eyes. Open Your Eyes will provide an environment for church leaders to come and hear from some of the nation’s leading authorities on childhood sexual abuse and the church. Additionally, the conference is open to any survivors and their supporters who wish to see and hear that the church desires to grow and change in the way it handles childhood sexual abuse. Collaborators for this conference include G.R.A.C.E. (Godly Response to Abuse in a Christian Environment) of Lynchburg, Va., and the Julie Valentine Center of Greenville. Speakers include: • Dr. Diane Langberg, psychologist and speaker specializing in dealing with trauma survivors and clergy. • Justin Holcomb, pastor and co-author of “Rid of My Disgrace: Hope and Healing for Victims of Sexual Assault.” • Victor Vieth, executive director of the National Child Protection Training Center. • Basyle “Boz” Tchividjian, founder and executive director of G.R.A.C.E. Ministers, faith-based community leaders, survivors, and their supporters are all invited to come and experience Open Your Eyes. We also extend a special invitation to men in leadership at all churches. Childhood sexual abuse is an issue that requires your attention. We must end the misconception that this is a “children’s ministry issue” or “a women’s ministry issue.” National statistics overwhelmingly disprove these assumptions: 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will experience some form of sexual abuse before they reach the age of 18. We don’t realize how pervasive it is because we don’t talk about it. Men, your congregations need you to lead by example. Now is the time to begin a conversation, to speak out for the hurting, and to work to stop childhood sexual abuse. Ministers of the church, open your eyes. Join us on Sept. 20-21. For more information and to register go to: openyoureyes2013.eventbrite.com. • Ryan Ferguson is the pastor of community connection at North Hills Community Church.
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