Preventing Abuse: Binding up Wounds Conference

Christ Church is pleased to announce an upcoming conference entitled “Preventing Abuse: Binding up Wounds” with author and fellow PCA member Diane Langberg, Saturday, October 19th. Diane is a globally recognized expert on the subjects of trauma, abuse, and recovery.

Leadership in the church of Jesus Christ is a holy trust from God himself, who loves his people and is fiercely devoted to them. Any power that we have—at home, in the workplace, in society, or in the church—is ours only as it is received from God. That power carries with it both unique temptations and unique opportunities to bless others.

This conference equips leaders in the church more fully to protect and serve those under their care. Sadly, many people come to church bearing emotional and spiritual scars from abuse (past or present) received from those in power over them—parents, spouses, bosses, or church leaders. On top of that, oftentimes church leaders are well-meaning but clumsy in their efforts to help, adding extra hurt to already painful circumstances.

This conference is for those who earnestly desire to grow in wisdom and insight in these matters, so as to better strengthen those who have been sinned against and bind up their wounds. Physical, verbal, sexual, and emotional abuse is much more common in the church than we would like to think. How do we minister to these people well? And how do we ensure that our churches are a refuge for those who need “shelter from the storm” (Isaiah 32:2)?

While this conference is for church leaders broadly, its principles apply to anyone working with victims of abuse. If you are in a position of authority or influence in this realm, this conference is relevant to you. In fact, friends and allies of those who have undergone trauma and abuse – and even victims of abuse – can benefit from this conference.

Details and tickets can be found online at christchurchbellingham.org.