Abuse in any form injures God’s children. Christians lose their influence when violence festers and is tolerated within the church body. In recognition, the Seventh-day Adventist Church has addressed this very real and obvious issue head-on with a zero-tolerance campaign against abuse called End It Now. This campaign seeks to address the actions that misrepresent God’s love and His character by educating and training leaders to spot signs of abuse as often as possible.
On August 22, 2026, Adventists around the globe are called to address the problem of abuse of women and children. Abuse is not always loud and visible. Many people picture abuse only as physical violence. But abuse can exist even when there are no visible signs. Because it’s not always visible, it often goes unnoticed. Silence can cause more harm.
For those experiencing abuse: If something feels controlling, fearful, or harmful, that feeling matters. You are not overreacting, and you are not alone.
Abuse can look like constant criticism, control over daily choices, isolation from others, or fear-based communication. These patterns matter.
As a church, we must look beyond appearances. Listen carefully. Take concerns seriously. Create space for honesty and safety. Awareness helps us protect others.
Our churches should be safe places for all.