The enditnow^® initiative, organized by the women's ministries department of the North England Conference, culminated in an emphasis day held at Winson Green Seventh-day Adventist Church on August 22. enditnow^® raises awareness of abuse and encourages everyone to safeguard those affected by it.

The weeklong initiative included evening meetings featuring shared testimonials on the theme "A Compassionate Response." An abuse awareness package authored by Karen Holford, the director for family, children's, and health ministries for the Trans-European Division, provided attendees with practical tips, time for reflection, and guidance on applying the provided information.

Gina Miller, director of Sabbath School and Women’s Ministries for the North England Conference, encouraged the congregation to pray together, share their requests, discuss how God has shown compassion, and consider the blessings we all experience from God. Miller concluded the program by reminding attendees that "Jesus did not avoid people because their circumstances made him uncomfortable. His love became visible as he was moved with compassion in his actions."

The two main speakers, Miller and John Francis, director of Family Ministries for the North England Conference, focused their messages on the story of the woman caught in adultery and the story of Tamar. Both women were publicly condemned and abused. Miller and Francis utilized those stories to equip the congregation with practical ways to recognize, realize, and respond to abuse.

The day was filled with fellowship and enabled attendees to discuss and envision practical steps to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves."

One attendee shared, "Initially, I tried to avoid the day, as I experienced abuse myself, but I was invited by a member. The day was great, and I was affected by it as it reminded me of where I am coming from, that I am a strong woman, and that I can support those in similar situations. The day was a true blessing for me."

The afternoon program continued with a presentation by Joanna Daniel, a trauma-informed counselor and founder of the Wounds to Scars counseling agency. Daniel previously co-authored the enditnow^® package and brought her knowledge to empower and equip the congregation. She made sure to include men in the presentation, highlighting that men and women are affected by abuse. One attendee was encouraged to recognize the need for greater compassion. The program focused on self-compassion, trauma, and healing, emphasizing the importance of recognizing trauma and confronting it with God’s help in order to heal.

The original article was published on the North England Conference news site.