Responding to Sexual Violence
Emanuela Todea, a Team leader in a Scottish Rape Crisis centre speaks on how Christians can respond to sexual violence.
In this months Coracle we are looking at the area of abuse. This isn’t an easy subject to talk about but it is necessary to bring out into the open. Emanuela Todea - a Team Lead in a Scottish Rape Crisis Centre, and Tina Campbell - a recognised expert in this area are the contributors this month. If anyone reading this has suffered abuse of any kind, in the past or currently, there are links below if you need them.
Ways in which a Christian can respond to sexual violence
Sexual violence is a devastating and heart-breaking reality in our world, and as Christians, we are called to respond to this issue with empathy, compassion, and justice. In this article, we will explore ways in which Christians can respond to sexual violence, including biblical principles, personal testimonies, and practical actions.
The Bible is clear that sexual violence is a sin that grieves God's heart. In Genesis 34, we see the tragic story of Dinah, who was sexually assaulted by Shechem. Jacob's sons responded with anger and violence, but God calls us to a different response. In Deuteronomy 22:25-27, God commands that the perpetrator be punished, but the victim should not be blamed or shamed. Instead, she should be treated with dignity and respect.
As Christians, we are called to embody the love and compassion of Christ towards those who have experienced sexual violence. In Isaiah 61:1, the Lord declares that he has come to "bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners." We must be a source of healing and hope for survivors, listening to their stories with empathy and providing them with the support they need to heal and recover.
The first step in responding to sexual violence is to acknowledge the reality of the problem. We cannot address a problem that we do not acknowledge. Unfortunately, many people still view sexual violence as a taboo topic that is not talked about. However we know that silence only perpetuates the problem. Psalm 82:3-4 says:
Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.
This verse reminds us that we are called to defend and uphold the cause of the oppressed, including survivors of sexual violence. Acknowledging the reality of sexual violence is the first step in creating a safe and supportive environment for survivors to share their stories.
Another way we can respond to sexual violence is by creating a safe and supportive environment for survivors to share their stories. This involves listening with empathy, withholding judgment, and offering validation and support. James 1:19 says, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." This verse reminds us of the importance of creating a space where survivors can feel heard and supported, without fear of blame or judgment. As Christians, we have the opportunity to create a safe space where survivors can share their stories and receive the support and compassion they need to begin their healing journey.
In addition to emotional and spiritual support we can also support survivors practically. This may involve providing meals, transportation, or connecting them with resources such as counselling or legal assistance. By supporting survivors practically and through someone just being present we can demonstrate the love and compassion of Christ, showing survivors that they are valued and cared for.
One of the most powerful ways we can respond to sexual violence is by advocating for justice, accountability, support policies and legislation that strengthen penalties for sexual assault and protect survivors. Proverbs 31:8-9 says, "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." This means that we are called to be advocates for justice, especially for those who are marginalized or victimized. By advocating for survivors of sexual violence, we can create a culture that prioritizes safety, support, and healing.
Personal testimonies are a powerful tool in responding to sexual violence. Survivors who share their stories and experiences can inspire others to take action, to offer support, and to advocate for justice. Personal testimonies also provide hope and comfort to survivors, reminding them that they are not alone, and that healing is possible. Psalm 34:18 says:
The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
By sharing our stories and standing together in support of survivors, we can demonstrate God's love and compassion to those who are hurting.
One survivor, who we will call Sarah, shared her story of healing after experiencing sexual violence. "For years, I felt like I was carrying a heavy burden. I was afraid to speak out, afraid that people would blame me or judge me. But then I found a community of Christians who supported me and helped me to heal. They listened to my story with compassion, and they prayed for me and encouraged me to seek counselling. I also found strength in the Bible, especially in verses like Psalm 34:18, which says 'The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.' Through their love and support, I was able to find healing and freedom from the pain of my past."
Another survivor, who we will call John, shared his story of advocating for justice after experiencing sexual violence. "When I was a teenager, I was sexually assaulted by someone I trusted. For years, I felt ashamed and alone, but then I realized that I needed to speak out. I reported my assault to the authorities, and I also spoke out publicly about my experience. It was scary, but it was also empowering. I found strength in verses like Micah 6:8, which says 'He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.' I realized that I had a responsibility to speak out and to hold my perpetrator accountable for his actions. Through my advocacy, I hope to inspire others to speak out and to fight for justice for survivors."
Lastly it is crucial that we educate ourselves on how to respond to sexual violence. Ignorance is not an excuse, and we must equip ourselves with the knowledge and tools to support survivors of sexual violence and work towards preventing it from happening in our communities. This involves understanding the dynamics of power, control, and trauma that often underlie sexual violence, as well as the ways in which our own beliefs and actions may contribute to a culture that enables it. By educating ourselves on the realities of sexual violence; and how we can respond in a Christ-like way, we can be better equipped to love and support survivors, holding perpetrators accountable, and create a culture that prioritises the dignity and worth of all people.
Ultimately, educating ourselves is an important step towards living out God's call to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him and loving our neighbour (Micah 6:8).
As Christians, we have the opportunity to live out these principles and work towards a world where sexual violence no longer exists. We have the opportunity to be a light in this world.
By Emanuela Todea
Support Links
If any of this has affected you, or you know of a situation that is happening then please seek help. All sexual abuse is a crime, please report it to Police Scotland.
SurvivorScotland
www.survivorscotland.org.uk
StopItNow!
www.stopitnow.org.uk | help@stopitnow.org.uk | 0808 10000 900
Rape Crisis Scotland
https://www.rapecrisisscotland.org.uk | 08088 01 03 02
Additionally you will find a link to the Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency, a recently established body that acts to promote and ensure proper safeguarding occurs in all Dioceses. If you have any concerns or allegations see below:
If you are a member of the public, you should refer allegations directly to the Police and also to the Safeguarding office in your Diocese (contact details here).
You can also contact the Scottish Catholic Safeguarding Standards Agency (SCSSA) by telephoning 0141 332 7177 or by email at admin@scssa.org.uk