While children who are abused are at increased risk to suffer from numerous medical and mental health conditions, we also know from a large and growing body of research that many maltreated children also suffer spiritually. Moreover, when the spiritual wounds of abuse are addressed, religiosity can be a significant source of resilience which improves the physical and emotional health of survivors.
Unfortunately, very few clergy receive seminary or other education on addressing the spiritual needs of maltreated children. Although this paper serves as a primer for pastors in providing spiritual care for survivors of abuse, it is not a substitute for comprehensive education on this subject. At least two ELCA seminaries have implemented rigorous training on child abuse and other seminaries should follow suit. Pastors who did not receive seminary education on this subject should avail themselves of intensive training available for clergy in the field.
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