Can Christianity Be Saved from Sexual Abuse? A Metanoia Conversation

The Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care in Aotearoa New Zealand, to be released publicly in July, has brought attention to the significant issue of abuse in faith-based care settings, including churches. Similar inquiries from around the world in the last decade, including the preliminary reports from the Aotearoa inquiry, have detailed the horrific and consistent abuses that have been endured in faith-based settings, with no Christian context immune from these abuses. It is not unreasonable to read these reports and conclude that there is something at the heart of Christianity which sustains these cultures of abuse.

Increasing awareness of the widespread nature of sexual abuse in the Christian church compels serious reflection on the cultural frameworks which sustain this type of abuse. There is a need for robust reflection on views of leadership, ideas and expectations around forgiveness, and the morality or criminality of abuse. Similarly, attitudes around patriarchy, women’s bodies, and sexuality must be interrogated. Ideas around modesty and sexual purity have resonances with a sociological understanding of rape culture which encourages silence and shame for victims/survivors instead of accountability and safety. Are these beliefs and cultures integral to Christianity? Or can Christians identify and weed out dangerous ideas to keep people safe in our communities?

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On 31 July, 7pm, at Cityside Baptist Church, Mt Eden, we will be gathering for the second of our “Can Christianity be saved” series to discuss sexual abuse within the church. What beliefs and cultures allow sexual abuse to flourish in Christian communities? How do we confront our past and engage with the challenge of ensuring safety in churches?

Entry is free and includes a glass of wine and snacks. Hosted by Metanoia, guest speakers include Dr Rocio Figueroa Alvear, Jaimee van Gemerden, and Cirũ Mũriũki.

More information and RSVP is available here.