Sexual Abuse: A Guide for Ministry

McLean, Ronald

D.Min. (1995), Acadia Divinity College, Acadia University

The purpose of this thesis is to provide a theological rationale for the Church's ministry in the area of sexual abuse and suggest a model of education for use by the Church in understanding sexual abuse. The study considers prevalence of sexual abuse in society and Church, along with causes and effects. It provides biblical and theological perspectives on sexuality as it relates to gender, love, marriage, and family. The study gives a historical perspective on the Church's attitudes towards women and children and how some of these placed women and children at risk.

The method used is a course of study involving twenty-one adult volunteers in a local Church setting. A Pre-/Post-Test was administered to measure attitudinal change in participants.

Results of the Pre-/Post-Test show that a course such as the one held for the purpose of this study can bring about attitudinal change towards sexual abuse. The written evaluations also confirm this.

Conclusions are drawn and recommendations made for the Church's involvement in ministry in this area.

A copy of this thesis is available in the Acadia University library.