LDS World: Being sensitive to victims of sexual abuse

In a recent general conference, Elder Richard G. Scott, of the Twelve, spoke to both abuser and abused. He implored, "If you are currently being abused or have been in the past, find the courage to seek help (now) ... Seek the support of someone you can trust. ... Explain how you have been abused and identify who has done it. Ask for protection .... Do not fear — for fear is a tool Satan will use to keep you suffering." Further, "Do not be discouraged if initially a bishop hesitates when you identify an abuser. Remember that predators are skillful at cultivating a public appearance of piety to mask their despicable acts."

He spoke to abusers, "(Jesus Christ) has warned: 'Whoso shall offend one of these little ones ... , it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.'.... Heal the anguish that you have caused others. Talk to your bishop or stake president (now)."

As members of the LDS Church we must be sensitive to the realities of the world in which we live. We need to educate and warn in family and church settings about this malignant evil, comfort and support those who have suffered abuse, live lives of personal purity and outspokenly condemn such acts in the church and before the world.