Did you know that Oklahoma is ranked first in the nation in instances of domestic violence? It also ranks second nationally in instances of femicide – situations when males kill their female partners.
God’s church simply cannot bury our heads in the sand, ignoring these realities in our communities. As Oklahoma Baptists, we can and should be resources of healing for survivors in these situations which are designed to destroy and wound those victimized by Satan’s power and presence.
Oklahoma Baptists are no strangers to these realities. In 1980, the Tulsa Metro Baptist Association began a ministry to shelter abused women and children in an old down- town Tulsa church.
A few years later, this ministry was able to purchase facilities better able to meet the needs of their guests, and in 2012, the ministry expanded to serve individuals caught in human trafficking. Today, this shelter is the only faith-based shelter in Oklahoma certified by the state Attorney General’s office.
In the beginning, the shelter was named DaySpring Villa and guided by an associational committee. Years later, it was released to form its own nonprofit board governing its future development.
Today, the shelter exists as The Spring – providing advocacy, a safe escape, and ongoing Christlike care for those who have experienced domestic violence, sexual violence, and stalking.
Human trafficking clients stay an average of 49 days, while domestic violence clients stay an average of 98 days. This is an increase in the length of stay from past years, indicating that more guests are engaging in programming long term, allowing them to truly transform their lives once they leave The Spring and not return to their previous circumstances.
There is only one question: how can we be more involved in the ministry of The Spring? Here are a few suggestions for your church to consider:
- Educate your congregation as to the necessity of this The Spring conducts training regularly and would be more than happy to partner with your church.
- Consider a church partnership and financial You can find details for both of these processes on their website – www.thespringok.org.
- Invite your congregation to join the Spring as Prayer Partners and volunteers.
- Work with The Spring to equip your staff in wisely handling individuals who need this ministry in your church and community.
God is moving in the lives of survivors! Pray for and partner with The Spring to make an eternal difference in the lives of these individuals. Jeremiah 33:3.
Visit thespringok.org/church-partnerships to learn more.
Bob Green is pastor emertus of Broken Arrow, Arrow Heights.