The subject of abuse and the effects of adverse childhood experiences are ignored in nearly all seminaries and Bible colleges. Churches are not equipped to understand or minister to people exposed to abuse or family dysfunction. Eight years ago I became aware of The ACE Study. It changed my ministry. Two years ago I started ACE Overcomers, a Bible-based program to help teens and adults overcome the effects of abuse, neglect and dysfunction. I speak in churches to inform both staff and congregations of the effects of adverse childhood experiences and how to minister to those affected. I wrote a series of 26 lessons that are appropriate for churches and recovery ministries. The book is being used in 6 states and by numerous rescue missions in their discipleship programs.
The question we must ask pastors is, "Do you speak ACEs?" If not, why not?