Sexual Abuse in Christian Homes and Churches

Rating:
Summary: The unmentionable brought to light
Review: This is an excellent book that brings the unmentionable subject of sexual abuse by Christians into the light of day. This book makes it abundantly clear that sexual abuse does happen, by real, committed Christians and that pretending that it doesn't, far from minimising the problem, actually allows it to prosper like a fungus growing in a damp, dark place. Many books on sexual abuse focus on helping the survivor but ignore the abuser and those friends and family that surround victim and abuser, however, Carolyn Heggen provides practical insight into help the survivor, the perpetrator and the families of both. The chapter on pastoral abuse contains very useful information and the sections that show how religious belief can actually contribute to abuse make a lot of sense. The ways in which churches can help bring healing and prevent or continue to foster abuse are made clear and there are examples of ways of worship that can help survivors. I think that much of this book (especially the chapter in repentence, restitution, forgiveness and reconciliation) would apply to not just situations of sexual abuse but any sexual sin. I can't say enough good things about this book, it is a difficult topic but it is covered thoroughly, sensitively and practically.