Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
My children are grown. However, when they were young, back in the 80s, child abduction cases terrified parents. The term stranger danger became popular.
The local news covered these cases and would give parents tips to keep their kids safe.
When my daughter was about ten, she attended a party at one of those bounce house event centers, and the local news came in and interviewed the kids about a recent abduction.
She wasn’t shy and willingly allowed the news reporter to ask her questions. It was fun because she “made the news.”
It was, however, not fun watching this young child being asked what she would do if a stranger approached her.
The reality of the possible danger to our children was beyond frightening for us young parents.
I give this example because child abductions and abuse has been around for a while. However, the demonic forces behind this tidal wave of child trafficking today are undeniable.
This is a moment when I am glad my kids are grown. But the concern I have for our grandchildren is very real.
Did You See the Movie Sound of Freedom?
Like many other Christians, I saw the movie Sound of Freedom. And, like most, I was disturbed by the reality of what is happening in our world today.
It is difficult to understand how any adult would think abusing children is okay.
This movie did a great job of telling a disturbing story without showing the horrific gory details.
It was difficult not to be moved by this movie as it pierces every parent’s heart.
The days of leaving kids to play in their own yards seem to be a luxury that has been lost. No parent wants such a horrific thing to happen to their kids.
So What Does Child Trafficking Have to Do With My Church?
The church is unique in that we are the body of Christ. This means there are many parts to the body, and we each can have a role to play in helping the world experience the love of Christ.
Churches need to stand up and help support efforts to end this horrific abuse of the most vulnerable in our society.
4 Things Your Church Can Do
1. Increase Awareness
None of us can help unless we are aware. This movie was made to heighten our awareness of the horrors of human trafficking.
The Sound of Freedom movie has done an incredible job of marketing this movie. I admit I went to see it because I couldn’t go to my social feeds without seeing a promotion for the movie.
That said, I know that social feeds typically feed you ads it thinks you will be interested in.
With all of the promotions I have seen for this movie, I have been surprised when I ask family or friends if they’ve seen it, many have not even heard of it.
The church can help members become aware by promoting the movie.
Most theatres are small now, so it would not be difficult to buy out a showing for your membership.
You can book a private theatre for a special showing. Buy out seating for viewing the film and invite members to attend.
Ask a pastor or volunteer leader to facilitate the showing and take some time after watching the film to brainstorm things the church can do to help.
2. Provide Child Predator Training
Awareness of crimes against children is a good first step. Take the next step and help to train your members and volunteers about how predators target children.
A child may not be a victim of child trafficking in your church, but there are ways a potential predator could access children without proper oversight.
When members are trained, they are aware of behaviors to watch for. They can then help be the eyes and ears and protect the vulnerable children in your church.
3. Support Organizations That Fight Child Trafficking
Many reputable organizations have a mission to rescue and work to stop child trafficking.
Ask a team to research organizations and recommend an organization that your church can help support.
Crisis Aid is an organization that I am familiar with. This well-established nonprofit has a rich history of global ministry and rescuing women.
Their book, Born for Rescue: Finding Purpose by Refusing to Do Nothing, will leave you on the edge of your seat as you hear the stories and people that this organization has helped.
Take a special offering or create an ongoing fundraiser that can be used to support the cause.
4. Support Sound of Freedom
Support Sound of Freedom by purchasing Sound of Freedom merchandise. Look for bulk purchasing and offer your members and volunteers a tee shirt or jewelry to support the cause.
Host a fundraiser and use SOF merchandise for auction items, attendance prizes, or sale items.
Wear their shirts in public and help make others aware of what is happening.
We Need To Do our Part
Not one of us can stop what is happening to these children by ourselves.
But our collective efforts to heighten awareness and support organizations that fight human trafficking is a step we can all take to battle this wave of darkness.
Today might be the day to call a meeting and make a plan for how your church can step up and do something.
