Understanding Adult Abuse — 2023 Breakout Session

Описание: In 2023 I organized a breakout conversation during the SBC Annual Meeting focused on adult sexual abuse and how churches can respond wisely, compassionately, and biblically to survivors.

This session brings together three perspectives:

— Dr. Heather Evans — clinical social worker specializing in trauma and abuse recovery
— Chellee Taylor — abuse survivor and advocate
— Dr. Todd Benkert — founder of Hope’s Companion

Part of the conversation addresses misunderstandings that sometimes arise in Christian communities about abuse, responsibility, and how Scripture applies to these situations. The goal is to help pastors and ministry leaders care for survivors in ways that promote healing rather than deepen shame.

The original recording was previously hosted elsewhere but was later removed. I’m reposting it here to preserve the conversation and make it accessible for churches and ministry leaders.

Near the end of the session, Chellee and her husband Peter join for a conversation about what it looks like for churches to care well for survivors.

Time Guide

This session is approximately 80 minutes. Timestamps are included below so you can jump to specific sections.

00:00 Intro: Why I’m sharing this conversation
01:18 Breakout session introduction
04:31 Dr. Heather Evans — understanding the dynamics of adult sexual abuse
41:48 Dr. Todd Benkert — why adult sexual abuse must be understood and named as abuse
55:26 The importance of institutional response and caring well for survivors
01:06:42 Interview with Chellee and Peter Taylor

About Hope’s Companion

Hope’s Companion helps churches understand trauma and care well for people carrying deep wounds so that they can experience hope, healing, and community in Jesus.

Learn more:
https://hopescompanion.org