For Christian Leaders

Women need your help; do you know what to do?

Be ready to help women impacted by abuse

Many women who reach out to us share a common thread in their story: somewhere along the way, Scripture was misunderstood or misapplied in a way that seemed to justify harm.

We believe deeply that God does not condone abuse. God’s Word was never meant to control, silence, or diminish. It was given to bring life, dignity, and freedom.

With growing awareness of abuse within Christian homes, education and training for church leaders is essential. Pastors, lay leaders, counselors, and ministry teams are often the first people a woman confides in. How they respond in that moment can profoundly impact her safety, healing, and faith.

We are committed to equipping leaders with both biblical clarity and practical best practices for care. When a woman shares her experience, a faithful response includes:

  • Listening without judgment

  • Validating her courage to speak

  • Assuring confidentiality

  • Empowering her to consider and plan for her safety

  • Connecting her with trusted support, including Hagar’s Sisters

If your pastor, ministry leader, or church staff would benefit from a conversation about the intersection of faith and domestic abuse, and how to respond in ways that protect rather than harm, our Executive Director, Becky Manseau Barnett, would be glad to connect personally. She can be reached directly at beckymb@hagarssisters.org.

We would be so glad to come alongside your church in this way, helping equip leaders to respond with both truth and compassion.

    for Christian leaders

    Do you know what God Says About Abuse?

    In my experience, seminary left me woefully unprepared to effectively recognize abuse, help survivors with the steps they need to take, and understand when and how to refer individuals. My definition of abuse was far too narrow. In my appointments with couples, I missed abusive behavior because of my limited understanding. I would encourage every pastoral team to educate themselves about IPA.

    Associate Pastor, Woburn, MA