We Too: Redemptive Responses to the Sexual Abuse Crisis

We Too: How the Church Can Respond Redemptively to the Sexual Abuse Crisis is a transformative guide authored by Mary DeMuth, offering an urgent and compelling exploration of how the Church can rise from the ashes of the sexual abuse crisis. This enlightening text delves into the painful realities faced by victims of sexual abuse while highlighting the often-overlooked responsibilities of church leaders to both acknowledge and appropriately respond to these traumas. Drawing from personal...

We Too: How the Church Can Respond Redemptively to the Sexual Abuse Crisis is a transformative guide authored by Mary DeMuth, offering an urgent and compelling exploration of how the Church can rise from the ashes of the sexual abuse crisis. This enlightening text delves into the painful realities faced by victims of sexual abuse while highlighting the often-overlooked responsibilities of church leaders to both acknowledge and appropriately respond to these traumas. Drawing from personal experience, biblical narratives, and case studies, Mary provides not only insight but a call to action for all believers.

In this critical and heart-wrenching read, Mary navigates the delicate balance between justice and compassion, offering a realistic view of the struggles that victims face within a church setting. Through her narratives, readers will understand the weight of silence and the power of words. The book thoughtfully challenges the Church to reconsider its priorities, emphasizing the need to protect victims rather than uphold the institution at their expense.

Key Features:

• Practical Applications: Each chapter includes concrete steps and guidelines for how churches can create safe spaces for survivors.
• Biblical Insights: Richly woven scriptural references provide a strong foundation for the arguments made throughout the text.
• Compelling Case Studies: Mary shares real-life stories that illustrate both the failures and successes of church responses to abuse.
• Empathy and Understanding: A compassionate voice speaks directly to both survivors and bystanders, offering them validation and encouragement.
• Vision for the Future: The book culminates in a hopeful vision of what a transformed church can look like, one that speaks boldly against abuse.

Target Audience:

• Christian Leaders: Pastors, ministry workers, and church councils.
• Survivors: Individuals seeking understanding and validation of their experiences.
• Caregivers: Those called to support victims of abuse within the Church.
• The General Congregation: Anyone who wishes to foster a safer church environment.

This book is essential for staging discussions about sexual abuse, not only within the Church but also in broader societal contexts. Powerful, insightful, and at times deeply painful, We Too can transform personal and collective understandings of faith, justice, and healing.

Occasions:

This resource is particularly timely for:

• Church Retreats: Enhance discussions surrounding healing and justice.
• Ministry Training: Equip leaders with necessary insights and practical steps.
• Book Clubs: Encourage community discussions focused on healing and faith.

Comparison:

Unlike many resources that only address the problem superficially, We Too masterfully combines personal narrative with actionable strategies, thus distinguishing it from typical leadership or self-help books. It goes beyond merely highlighting issues; it offers a path forward, ensuring that those in the Church don’t just learn about the crisis but are motivated to become part of the solution.

Emotional Appeal:

Throughout We Too, readers are invited to engage with their own pain, to acknowledge the hurt within their communities, and to find strength in vulnerability. Mary’s accessible prose reassures readers that they are not alone in their struggles. This book resonates deeply with anyone who has been affected by abuse, providing them with hope and practical advice on how to heal and advocate for others.