Safe Church - Print

Safe Church
How to Guard Against Sexism and Abuse in Christian Communities

by Andrew J. Bauman

A powerful and practical guide that exposes the dangers of sexism and abuse in Christian communities and equips church leaders and members to create safer, more just environments.

This book will help you:
•    Identify and address sexism and abuse within church communities
•    Recognise harmful theological interpretations that enable abuse
•    Amplify the voices of survivors and understand their experiences
•    Develop practical strategies to create safer church environments
•    Equip pastors and leaders with tools to foster gender equality
•    Challenge toxic power structures that perpetuate harm
•    Cultivate a church culture rooted in justice, healing, and accountability

Features
•    Research-based insights into sexism in the church
•    Firsthand accounts from women who have experienced abuse
•    Practical steps for creating a safer and more inclusive church
•    A theological examination of harmful beliefs and structures
•    Guidance for pastors, leaders, and congregants seeking change

Paperback, 192pp
1.27 cms H x 21.59 cms L x 13.84 cms W (0.2 kgs) 
ISBN 9781540903976
Baker Books (2025)

[Allow 4 weeks]

Description
Sexism and abuse remain persistent and often unchallenged problems within Christian communities, harming individuals and distorting the message of the Gospel.

Many churches, whether knowingly or unknowingly, perpetuate environments where power imbalances lead to systemic harm.

In Safe Church, Andrew J. Bauman uncovers the realities of these injustices and provides a compassionate, research-driven approach to creating change.

Drawing on extensive interviews, case studies, and theological analysis, Bauman exposes how churches can enable misogyny and silence survivors.

He examines harmful biblical interpretations that have been weaponised to justify control and oppression, offering instead a vision of a church grounded in equality, safety, and healing.

This book is an essential resource for pastors, church leaders, and lay members who want to confront and dismantle structures that contribute to harm. Bauman provides actionable steps to foster accountability, support survivors, and create communities where all people – regardless of gender – can flourish.

A call to courage and compassion, Safe Church challenges the church to live out its highest calling: to be a place of justice, love, and protection for all.

About the Author
Andrew J. Bauman is a licensed mental health counsellor, author, and the founder of the Christian Counseling Center for Sexual Health & Trauma. He specialises in helping individuals and communities address issues of abuse, trauma, and gender dynamics within faith-based settings. Bauman has written multiple books, including The Sexually Healthy Man and Stumbling Toward Wholeness, and is a passionate advocate for justice within the church.

Contents
1.    Introduction: The Church’s Hidden Crisis
2.    Recognising the Problem: Sexism and Abuse in Christian Communities
3.    How Harmful Theology Perpetuates Abuse
4.    Listening to Survivors: Stories from the Church
5.    Power, Control, and Patriarchy in Church Leadership
6.    Rethinking Biblical Interpretation on Gender and Authority
7.    Practical Steps for Creating a Safe Church
8.    Responding to Allegations of Abuse with Integrity
9.    Restoring Trust and Healing Communities
10.  A Vision for a Just and Inclusive Church