The Importance of Churches
“Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” — Proverbs 31:9
Churches are uniquely positioned to care for the whole person — spiritually, emotionally, and physically. Many victim-survivors turn to church leaders first for guidance, prayer, or support, sometimes before, or instead of, accessing specialist DFV services.
Unfortunately, well-meaning but uninformed responses can cause further harm — encouraging victim-survivors to stay, seek couples counselling, or forgive without accountability, leaving abuse unaddressed.
Perpetrators may also seek spiritual justification or help, often putting ministers in difficult positions without the training to safely manage these complex dynamics.
This is why SAFER was created: to equip pastors and Christians with the knowledge and tools to respond wisely, uphold safety, and journey alongside both survivors and those who use violence with courage and compassion.
Educating Churches
Our hope is that the Church will grow in awareness, speak out with courage, and take meaningful action against domestic and family violence. This violence affects many people within our churches in silence and isolation.
Survivors endure profound pain and need God’s love, justice, healing, and hope. Recognising abuse and responding with care — starting with safety planning and connecting to professional support — can save lives.
SAFER exists to:
- Educate churches about domestic and family violence
- Provide practical guidance for safe and effective responses
- Promote respectful, just, and loving relationships
- Offer theological insights that challenge harmful misuse of Scripture
- Advocate for greater resourcing, understanding, and systemic change
