Help Sexually Abused Children

Whitney Hopler

Sexual abuse against children is one of the most vile sins imaginable, because it destroys the innocent trust that God intends children to have while they're growing up. The damage wrought by sexual abuse can haunt a child all the way to and throughout adulthood. But if you know a child who has been molested, you can become part of God's healing process for that child.

Here are some ways you can help sexually abused children:

Adapted from Caring for Sexually Abused Children: A Handbook for Families and Churches, copyright 2001 by R. Timothy Kearney. Published by InterVarsity Press, www.ivpress.com, 1-800-843-4587.

R. Timothy Kearney completed his Ph.D. in clinical psychology and M.A. in theology at Fuller Theological Seminary. He is director of mental health at a community health center. He lives in Connecticut with his wife and two daughters.

Do you know a child who has been sexually abused? If so, how are you trying to help that child? What precautions has your church taken to try to minimize the chances of sexual abuse happening between staff, volunteers, and children? Were you sexually abused as a child? If so, what struggles did you face as a result, and how has God helped you heal? Did other people reach out to you, and if so, how? Visit Crosswalk's forums to discuss this topic by clicking on the link below.

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