Following the recent report that addressed how Southern Baptists have handled sexual abuse allegations in the past, Send Relief is seeking to be a part of the solution by establishing a survivor care fund. Send Relief, the compassion ministry arm of the Southern Baptist Convention of churches, committed $3 million in funding to the SBC […]
Most pastors say sexually abusive ministers should step down permanently
As Christian groups and denominations debate the proper response to clergy sexual misconduct (both child sexual abuse and adult sexual assault), most pastors believe those who commit such crimes should withdraw from public ministry permanently. At the recent Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting, the topic of pastoral sexual abuse and assault dominated much of the […]
Aderholt pleads guilty in Texas sexual assault case
A former Southern Baptist missionary and South Carolina Baptist Convention employee has pled guilty to misdemeanor assault causing bodily injury, according to the Houston Chronicle. Mark Aderholt, former associate director and chief strategist for the SCBC, was arrested last July on charges in Tarrant County, Texas, of sexually assaulting a child under age 17 more […]
Abuse aftercare resource available to churches
As more stories of sexual abuse involving evangelical churches and pastors — including the Southern Baptist Convention — come to light, SBC leaders have recognized the need to be responsive and educated in caring for those within their ministries who disclose abuse experiences. LifeWay Christian Resources, the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, and those working […]
‘Caring Well Challenge’ on abuse launched
The Southern Baptist effort to address sexual abuse in churches took another step with the launch of the “Caring Well Challenge,” a joint call for congregations to become equipped to prevent predatory behavior and to care for survivors. The Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission and the Sexual Abuse Advisory Study have issued an invitation to […]