Youth Ministry

[husband10]

My wife and I mentor several teens and are in the process of starting a non-profit organization. One of the young ladies we mentor has confided in my wife that she was sexually abused when she was younger by her mom’s boyfriend. This took place 5 years ago, but she is just talking about it. When this happened (she was 9yrs old) she told her mom and her mom did not acknowledge it but soon after got a divorce from her husband. This man is not her father but is the father of her twin little sisters. This teen is afraid he will do the same to her little sisters. What my wife and I need to know is what steps to take. Should we report it to the correct authorities and ruin this teens life because the exposure and embarrassment? Should we wait to find out what she wants to do (because she is still opening up more and more)? Should we sit with her mom and discuss this? She and her mom do not have a mother daughter relationship, but she wants to have one with her mother. Her mom sometimes acts as if she has no kids and lives a free lifestyle. Please give advice. We have been praying and praying (which of course helped tremendously) but we know that something more should happen.

 

[Blazin Bones]

I'm kinda on the young side, so if I were to give advice, it would most likely need to be reitterated by an older person. I'm willing to help if I can, but if not, I will certainly keep this situation in my prayers.

 

[Atonement]

I'm also a Youth Minister, and what a rewarding experience it is to lift our Lord before the Youth and watch our Father spark a fire in their young hearts. In relation to your question. First and foremost pray about it, you and your wife together. 2nd I would confront the mother with love and show her through your love that you two have her children's best interest in mind.
This could and probably will cause problems in the home. But to sit by and just hope nothing happens is far worse then taking no action at all. If you decide through prayer that it's best to wait a while, follow your spirit through this matter. But always keep them in your prayers and God will open a door for you or the authorities to take proper action.
Is this man (if you know) under the influence of any alcohol or drugs? Most of these types of cases are steered from drug abuse of some sort. I would also look on the web for a site with information on it within in your area regarding child abuse / signs to look for / phone numbers etc. You can also give this information to the mother if you decide to confront her with this tender issue. God Bless you and your family, I know you will make the correct step here..