Abuse: A Blight On Our Culture

Abuse undermines human dignity and must be confronted with compassion, truth, and accountability. This page exists to educate, support, protect, and provide steps for healing and justice.

Spousal Abuse (Intimate Partner Violence)

Spousal abuse includes physical, sexual, emotional abuse, and stalking by a partner. It affects millions across all demographics and often goes unreported.

41% of women and 26% of men have experienced IPV.
1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men have endured severe physical violence.
10 million people are abused by a partner each year in the U.S.
American Indian/Alaska Native women experience the highest rates.
Women aged 18–34 face the highest IPV rates.

Child Abuse

In 2022, over 558,000 children were confirmed victims.
1 in 4 children will experience abuse or neglect in their lifetime.
Most victimized children knew their abuser.
Highest risk is for children under 1 year of age.
Parental substance abuse is a major contributing factor.

Long-term effects include mental illness, substance abuse, and criminal behavior. Early intervention is crucial., but many cases of abuse go unreported for years.

Crossroad’s Commitment

Proactive prevention through screening and NavSafe policy enforcement.
Immediate and lawful response to abuse allegations.
Congregational awareness and education initiatives.
Support systems for abuse survivors, including counseling and financial aid.
Fostering a safe and supportive church culture.
Confidential trauma-informed spiritual and pastoral care..
Confidential, accessible reporting. We want to know and help..

What To Do If You Are Being Abused

If in immediate danger, call 911.

Tell someone you trust.
Use a confidential reporting channel (e.g., pastoral email or hotline).
Seek medical and psychological help.
Know that abuse is never your fault.
If you know someone who may be abused, offer support and report danger.

Visit our Nazarene Safe site: https://usacanadaregion.org/ministry/nazarene-safe

Resources & Hotlines

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or thehotline.org
Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
RAINN (Sexual Assault): 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Chandler Police Victim Services: 480-782-4535
Shelter Hotline: 480-890-3039
Solari Crisis Line: 602-222-9444 or (844)534-4373
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 9-8-8
Veterans Crisis Line: 9-8-8 then Press 1
Teen Lifeline: 602-248-8336
Senior Helpline: 602-264-4357 or (888) 264-2258
Arizona Child Abuse Hotline: 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445)

You Are Not Alone

Whether you are a victim, a witness, or seeking understanding—God sees, hears, and cares. His Church must do the same. Healing is possible, and you are not alone.

Crossroads Church of the Nazarene