Darkness to Light: upcoming Stewards of Children child sexual abuse training

Child sexual abuse is a particular concern in communities of faith. When child abuse occurs within the context of families or trusted relationships in faith communities, it is especially confusing and distressing. We may experience shame, secrecy, or a desire to hide sexual abuse, assault, or addictions to substances, pornography, or other behaviors. In addition, it is easy to assume that our children are safe with the “good people” who believe as we do.

We can prevent and address child sexual abuse by learning to recognize potentially unsafe behaviors and relationships and establish healthy boundaries. Talking to children about healthy boundaries supports the safe and supportive interactions with adults that all children need. Inviting open conversations about child sexual abuse creates space and compassion for healing and reduces stigma and shame. Child sexual abuse prevention training can promote church environments where children thrive, and survivors seeking healing and wholeness can feel safe and accepted.

I believe in our innate goodness and ability to heal and grow from trauma, violence, and abuse. While experiencing pain is unavoidable in life, it is easy to feel lost, irredeemable, unworthy, or unlovable. We can counter fear and darkness as we learn to prevent and address the wounds of abuse with compassion and grace.

Over the past few decades, discoveries in child development, brain science, biology, and psychology have revealed the outsized toll that child abuse and neglect produce. Disruptions in emotional learning and regulation can lead to lifelong struggles as individuals seek to hide, numb, or escape the confusion, shame, and constant stress that result from childhood trauma.

Despite the challenges we face in building a safe and resilient community where all children can grow and thrive, healing from the effects of abuse is possible. Isaiah prophesied of our day with encouragement: “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee…darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee” (Isaiah 60:1-3, KJV). As we let our light shine, we can share God’s peace and healing influence with all who suffer in darkness and become better stewards of His children.

If you are a survivor of child sexual abuse, confidential resources and support are available through Darkness to Light’s support center. Call 866.FOR.LIGHT or text LIGHT to 741741 to have questions answered or chat with a trained crisis counselor, 24/7, at no charge.

Training details

Stewards of Children is Darkness to Light’s two-hour training that teaches adults how to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. The program is designed for organizations that serve youth and for individuals concerned about children’s safety. It is the only nationally distributed, evidence-informed program proven to increase knowledge, improve attitudes, and change child protective behaviors.

Saturday, March 11, from 10 am-noon, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Palmer chapel, 560 W Bogard Rd.

Friday, March 31, from 6-8 pm, and Tuesday, April 18, from 5-7 pm, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Colony chapel, 9475 E Bogard Rd.

The Stewards of Children training is good for two contact hours of continuing education for social workers, nurses, and foster parents. There is no need to register to attend these events. Childcare is available upon request by submitting your information online at bit.ly/D2Lrsvp23.

Contact Amity Condie at messiahmatsu@gmail.com for event and childcare inquiries. Contact Telsche Overby telscheoverby@gmail.com for content information or to schedule a training at your organization.

Amity Condie is preparing to graduate with a Master of Social Work degree and Trauma Treatment Certificate in May. She is enjoying the extra light and skijoring with her dogs. She is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.