Learn the ‘Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment’

NAMPA, Idaho (CBS2) — As reports of abuse mishandling within faith communities continue to surface and Idaho sees rising numbers of domestic violence and child sexual exploitation, the Nampa Family Justice Center is inviting members of the local Christian community to a “GRACE training”, which stands for “Godly response to abuse in the Christian environment.”

“We want to shift the mindset to move away from the defensive position and into the offensive position where we are actually doing what the word of God says, and that is to bring healing to individuals,” Sarah Anderson, a volunteer with NFJC said.

The GRACE mission is, ‘to empower Christian communities to recognize, prevent, and respond to abuse’. Their website reads: GRACE trains, equips, educates, and investigates with the goal of supporting effective safeguarding and accountability. Fundamental to GRACE is our attention to fostering cultures that care for survivors, safeguard the vulnerable, and hold abusers accountable.’

The founder of GRACE said in a promotional video, “Church is intended to be a safe place, a place for people to find healing and restoration, but too often abuse comes into that.”

Anderson, who played an integral part in offering the training to Christians in the Treasure Valley, said the training is meant to “help people understand God’s heart to the victim and help people understand God’s heart to the abuser and how we as Christians have a responsibility to respond well and in line with the word of God.”

Organizers said the training is based on the Bible and emphasises Jesus’ focus on protecting the vulnerable.

The three topics that will be covered are:

Safeguarding:

• The reality of abuse in faith settings
• Responding to the impact of abuse
• Understanding offenders and their tactics
• Your role in prevention and response

Leadership:

• A framework for prevention and response
• Educate the church and clarify standards of conduct
• Develop a culture of care and accountability

Policy:

• Prevent silencing and ensure reports are handled in a trauma-informed way
• Practical tips for implementation
• What to do about known offenders

Nampa Family Justice Center invites you to GRACE training

• October 27-28, 2026
• Grace Bible Church in Nampa
• It’s open to all adults who lead, work or spend time with Christian organizations, churches, clubs, non-profits, small groups, etc.
• Register here