A SANCTUARY

Let’s be honest. The level of abuse which takes place in homes is shocking. It is on the rise, and it is neither bound or dictated by geography, religion, financial status, educational ability, ethnicity or class.

Let’s be honest too, that the Church has not always been a place where survivors are supported, where women are believed, or where cultures of safety have been created.

The Sanctuary network of churches seek to change this story, to become places where every survivor feels safe and is safe, where their story is listened to and held in a safe way. Where they are encouraged in their journey towards safety as they continue to survive from day to day. Where those of us in leadership do the work which is required to make sure we are not perpetuating systems or practices of abuse or creating cultures of authority, coercion and control. Where we create cultures that are Christ like; that are welcoming, inclusive, safe, secure and willing to speak up for those who are abused.