Equipping the Church to Create Safe Spaces for Betrayed Women and Female Addicts

The shame women experience when they have their own sexual struggles can be insurmountable. Often, women muster up the courage to go to their church for help only to leave more traumatized, feeling like they have a man's problem and there is nothing for them there. A betrayed spouse can feel like she is to blame for her husband's acting out, and if she just prayed more, was more sexual, or forgave, things would be better. If you are a woman navigating trauma, you will need others to come alongside you who have been there and can show you the way. If you feel overwhelmed and tossed around by the conditions of your life, you will want someone to help you make sense of what is happening and show you where to start. In this session, Ashley will share her story, how she tried to find help, and what finally worked.

The Church has an incredible opportunity to be a refuge and beacon for women needing safety and direction. Ashley will bring to light some of the fears that keep churches from talking about women's struggles and betrayal trauma. Ashley will use her experience overseeing groups at Pure Desire to encourage and equip leaders to become safe harbors for women. When we help women heal, break the chains of shame, and recognize how loved they are by God, they become unstoppable advocates for health and wholeness. The ripple effect will be seen in their families and communities for generations.