What if the very institutions meant to uplift us are the ones holding us back? That's the question at the heart of my conversation today with therapist and author Andrew Bauman. Through years of research and interviews, Andrew has uncovered a troubling reality within the church, one where women often feel marginalized, silenced and forced to make themselves smaller just to keep the peace, one where sexism, abuse and misogyny are happening. This stands in stark contrast to the vision of the Church that Jesus proclaimed, a community of radical equality, justice and love. So how did we get here? And more importantly, how do we find a way forward? Andrew believes one of the answers lies in men like himself doing the hard work of confronting their own biases and misuse of power. It means churches created spaces for Open dialog, for elevating women's voices, for building a culture of true mutuality and respect. This is a vital conversation for the future of the church. Andrew is convinced that change is possible that men and women can work together to embody Jesus, to look more like Him. Join me and Andrew as we confront sexism and abuse in the church, and see if we can uncover a path towards the beloved community that God intends.

Founder & Director of the Christian Counseling Center: For Sexual Health & Trauma (CCC), Dr. Andrew J. Bauman is a licensed mental health counselor with a Doctorate from Northeastern University. His dissertation was on studying the impact of sexism and abuse on women in the Protestant Church. Andrew is the author of seven books, and his newest book is called SAFE CHURCH: How to Guard Against Sexism & Abuse in Christian Communities (2024)

Andrew's Book:
Safe Church

Andrew's Recommendations:
Becoming the Pastor's Wife
The Deep-Rooted Marriage

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