“He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight.“

-Psalm 72:14

Our powerful and prophetic logo is a visual indicator of our current climate and the restorative power of Jesus Christ in operation. Jesus takes all our brokenness and shard pieces of our lives and brings them together as a beautiful mosaic art held and restored by God’s unfailing love; nothing is ever lost. If you look closely, you will see the heart is not closed. This was intentionally created to allow room for releasing and letting go. While simultaneously holding a posture to receive the fullness and purpose of God in their lives.

Established in 2013, the Sacred Safe Spaces ministry of the American Baptist Churches of New Jersey (ABCNJ) seeks to equip and empower our churches and assist them in becoming safe healing places for victims and survivors of domestic violence. ABCNJ aspires to these initiatives by providing cultural and language-specific resources to agencies and institutions across  New Jersey through education, prevention, and awareness. 

Since the 2020 pandemic, there has been an 8% increase in domestic violence in America. Furthermore, Domestic violence is no longer an issue that only affects women; statistics now demonstrate increased domestic violence among men. 

Not a congregational covenant partner?

Abuse is a form of oppression that God hates. God has called the Church light bearers of hope, mercy, justice, and love. Partner with us today; together, we can help eradicate domestic violence in our communities.

Already a congregational covenant partner?

We thank you for your willingness to commit to ongoing education and activities amongst church leaders and laity, ensuring that the congregation can provide resources, a safe space, and care for those facing domestic violence. 

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New Jersey Strengthens Protections for Victims of Domestic Violence in 2024
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New Jersey Strengthens Protections for Victims of Domestic Violence in 2024
sacred safe spaces

Since the pandemic, there has been an increasing awareness and advocacy around domestic violence, which have led to significant legislative changes aimed at better-protecting victims and ensuring justice. New Jersey is demonstrating a strong commitment to reform and reassuring the public about the importance of protecting victims.

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Domestic Violence Resource Guide

This free resource guide, designed for clergy and congregational leaders, includes information that anyone can utilize within the community with statistics, recommendations, and contacts for additional resources.

Signing up will include you in ABCNJ’s email list for upcoming events and other ABCNJ news. Your contact information will remain confidential, and you can unsubscribe anytime.

Sacred Safe Spaces Webinars

Below are some of our past Sacred Safe Spaces webinars. Visit and subscribe to our YouTube channel for the complete playlist.

 

Translation Instructions

To watch Sacred Safe Space videos in another language, below are the instructions:

    1. Click on the video 

    2. Click the Play button

    3. Scroll down to Settings (it is the icon that looks like a wheel)

    4. Click on Subtitles 

    5. Click on  Auto-Translate

    6. Scroll and select your Language 

    7. Watch

Sacred Safe Spaces Webinars

Featured
Domestic Violence in your Congregation; how to recognize it and how to help
What does Child Sexual Abuse Look like and what can the church do
Call to Men
[Part 3] Tools for Strengthening Families: Knowledge of Child Development
[Part 2] Tools for Strengthening Families: Social Connections and Concrete Support in Time of Need
[Part 1] Tools for Strengthening Families: Resilience

When parents are resilient, they raise resilient children. This session will talk about how resilience can be a protective factor parents can use for themselves and can teach to their children.

The Intersection Between Domestic Violence, Marginalization, and Racial Bias

Join us as we continue our Sacred Safe Spaces' webinars by looking at how marginalization, race, and bias have collided in profound ways with domestic violence. Understanding how these forces interact can help us minister and respond more effectively, especially during these trying times. Our presenter is Will DuBose, Prevention Coordinator for the NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence.

Webinar on Sexual Abuse

Kiara Sarner is the Outreach Coordinator and Prevention Specialist for Essex County's Rape Crisis Center. Her job includes educating community members as to how to be change agents in the fight against sexual violence as well as advocating for survivors. She spends the rest of her time working towards her Master's degree in Social Work and volunteering with stray cats. She appreciates you caring about these critical issues!