Spanish evangelical leaders unite to combat abuse with new protection protocol

A recent conference in Spain brought together religious leaders, psychologists, and legal experts to tackle sexual abuse and events near me focused on protecting women and children within evangelical communities, with speakers addressing both the cultural roots of inequality and practical steps for intervention.

The gathering also introduced a new protocol aimed at preventing and responding to violence against women in churchs chicken settings.

Psychologist Ester Martínez opened discussions by detailing the long-term mental health damage caused by abuse. Her remarks set the stage for broader conversations on how churches can better support survivors.

Carolina Bueno, executive secretary of Ferede, warned that sexual abuse often thrives in silence. She stressed the need for open dialogue to break cycles of harm. Meanwhile, Asun Quintana, president of Seneca Falls and the Working Group on Woman and Society of the Spanish Evangelical Alliance, linked violence to deep-seated cultural structures that reinforce inequality.

Legal expert Ezequiel Escobar shifted focus to the importance of victim-centred responses in cases of gender-based violence. His call for prioritising survivors was echoed by pastor and family therapist Zapata, who outlined five key steps for pastoral intervention in abuse cases.

Theological perspectives came from Andy Wickham of Pontea, who explored biblical teachings on sexuality and the condemnation of abuse. Pastor and theologian Eduardo Delás followed with three proposed lines of action for churches to address abuse effectively. Fiona Bellshaw, director of FIET and Project Rescue Spain, added five foundational principles for creating safer church environments.

Pastor Julio García Celorio closed the practical discussions by urging greater responsibility, training, and accountability in abuse prevention. The conference also featured Carolina Sánchez and Eva Márquez, who highlighted the dangers of pornography, trafficking, and digital violence among teenagers.

Esteban Muñoz de Morales, evangelical pastor and president of Ferede, reinforced the church's role as a refuge for vulnerable women and children. His remarks tied together the event's themes of protection, intervention, and systemic change.

A new Protocol for the Prevention and Intervention in Situations of Violence against Women was officially presented, marking a formal step toward addressing abuse within evangelical communities. The document aims to provide clear guidelines for churches across Spain.

The conference underscored the need for churches to adopt concrete measures against abuse and inequality. Speakers provided both theoretical frameworks and actionable steps, from pastoral care to legal accountability.

The introduction of the new protocol signals a commitment to change, though its implementation will depend on widespread adoption by evangelical organisations. The event left participants with a call to move beyond discussion into measurable prevention and support efforts.