Leaders of seven departments of the Seventh-day Adventist Church are urging members worldwide to participate in the denomination's Abuse Prevention Emphasis Sabbath, held each year on the fourth Saturday of August.

In an ANN Commentary published today, directors of the initiative's seven sponsoring departments urged their continued support for the 10-year-old annual campaign.

Participating congregations typically offer a presentation during the worship service, which helps to create a safe, open church environment that welcomes discussion of tough issues.

The initiative this year falls on August 27.

While the initiative is sponsored by the world church, leaders are urging action locally.

"This year, we ask that you go a step beyond talking by directly benefiting women affected by violence in your community," leaders wrote in the Commentary. "After worship service, find a shelter to visit, and offer the women there your support, a prayer or a hug. As a community of faith, we must not only talk, but act."

The Adventist Church launched its annual Abuse Prevention Emphasis Day in 2001, noting that incidences of domestic violence and sexual abuse occur in Christian homes at rates similar to the general population.

The abuse prevention initiative is sponsored jointly by the denomination's Education department, Ministerial Association, and the Children's, Family, Health, Women's and Youth ministries.

Resources are available on the Abuse Prevention Emphasis Day website.

Click HERE to read the Commentary.