Below is a message addressed to the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Inter-America from President of the Inter-American Division, Elie Henry–IAD News Staff
August 18, 2023 | Miami, Florida, United States | By: Elie Henry, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Inter-America
Hello Brothers and Sisters of Inter-America, Happy Sabbath.
I greet you a week ahead of the special day when the Seventh-day Adventist Church throughout the world emphasizes the need to eradicate violence and abuse in all its forms.
Through the EndItNow initiative on August 26, we unite our voices and hearts to say emphatically that violence has no place in our world nor in our Church. As Christians, we are called to be bearers of love, compassion, and justice. It is our duty to create a safe and secure environment for everyone, especially the most vulnerable.
Church members and leaders must remain alert to any signs of abuse; they must listen to those who need to speak up, and most of all take bold steps to intervene and support.
In the same way that a shepherd cares for his sheep by healing them, feeding them and guiding them to still waters, Jesus, our Good Shepherd, can heal the physical and emotional wounds of the victims, the abusers and also the onlookers.
Isaiah 40:11 says: “He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” (NIV)
Let us join this initiative from the Women’s Ministries Department, with the ongoing commitment to eradicate violence in all its forms. May our actions reflect the light of Christ and His redeeming love.
EndItNow — Say NO To Abuse