The Wired Word for 11232025 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 11/23/2025 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article2.74d541386bbf.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 11/23/2025 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: [Sexual abuse, Child protection, Church policy] author: The Wired Word source: The Wired Word reference: [mailto:reader-forwarded-email/43544426abd6916244d6db095f0d853d] date created: 2025-11-22 00:00 --- # 🏷️ Title: The Wired Word for 11/23/2025 ## 🧭 Table of Contents - [📝 Summary](#-summary) - [📖 Main Content](#-main-content) - [🗒️ Notes](#️-notes) - [📚 References](#-references) - [🗣️ Paraphrase](#️-paraphrase) - [📰 Newsletter](#-newsletter) - [✅ Action Items](#-action-items) - [🧪 Hypotheses](#-hypotheses) - [📊 Methodology](#-methodology) - [❓ Questions](#-questions) - [🔮 Future Research](#-future-research) - [💡 Implications](#-implications) - [🧠 Learning Styles Assessment](#-learning-styles-assessment) - [📊 Accessibility Assessment](#-accessibility-assessment) - [🌍 DEIB Assessment](#-deib-assessment) - [✅ Logical Validity](#-logical-validity) - [🛡️ DARVO Analysis](#-darvo-analysis) - [🎯 Conclusion](#-conclusion) ### 🔗 References - Include links cited in or relevant to the article. ## 📝 Summary - What happened: The lesson uses ongoing “Epstein files” coverage and a church trafficking case to frame church discussion on sexual abuse, accountability, and child safety. - Why it matters: Calls churches to protect “little ones,” expose abuse, and adopt/execute child-protection policies. - Key stakeholders: Survivors, congregations, church leaders, law enforcement. - Risks and tradeoffs: Transparency vs. privacy/legal limits; prevention vs. overreach; due process vs. urgency. - Bottom line: Protect children, expose abuse, and implement enforceable policies. ## 📖 Main Content - Core arguments: Abuse is real in society and churches; leaders must “speak out” and “expose” wrongdoing; Jesus demands protection of children. See the charge to “provide effective protection of children and youths” and focus on accountability in the [introduction](https://read.readwise.io/read/01kakqevk8gk232dj56mnh8r4z?endLexposition=00000_00007_00002-001v&startLexposition=00000_00000&emphasizeText=focus+on+the+danger+of+sexual+abuse+in+society+and+church). - Context/terms: The lesson references congressional pressure to release “Epstein files,” survivor litigation, and a pastor charged with trafficking. It pairs news with Scripture (Genesis 34; Proverbs 31:8–9; Matthew 18:6; Ephesians 5:11). - Uncertainties: Redactions remain in released records; contested public claims; ongoing investigations. ### 🗒️ Notes - Political backdrop: House vote “427 to 1” to release files; “We have nothing to hide” framing ([House vote summary](https://read.readwise.io/read/01kakqevk8gk232dj56mnh8r4z?endLexposition=00000_0000A_00002-0054&startLexposition=00000_00008&emphasizeText=On+Tuesday%2C+November+18%2C+the+House+approved+release+of+the+files+by+a+vote+of+427+to+1)). - Records: Thousands of pages, names, and ongoing redactions; call for more disclosure ([Brown quote](https://read.readwise.io/read/01kakqevk8gk232dj56mnh8r4z?endLexposition=00000_0000C_00002-007D&startLexposition=00000_0000B&emphasizeText=The+documents+that+we+received+still+have+redactions+in+them)). - Survivor counsel: Epstein “his own No. 1 client”; dual-life depiction ([attorney statement](https://read.readwise.io/read/01kakqevk8gk232dj56mnh8r4z?endLexposition=00000_0000C_00002-007D&startLexposition=00000_0000B&emphasizeText=Jeffrey+Epstein+was+the+pimp+and+the+john)). - Church case: Oklahoma pastor charged; “spiritually coerce the victims” via religious influence ([case summary](https://read.readwise.io/read/01kakqevk8gk232dj56mnh8r4z?endLexposition=00000_0000G_00000-000l&startLexposition=00000_0000D&emphasizeText=spiritually+coerce+the+victims+by+targeting+their+religious+convictions)). - Scripture anchors: - Speak for those who cannot speak (Prov 31:8–9) ([call to advocacy](https://read.readwise.io/read/01kakqevk8gk232dj56mnh8r4z?endLexposition=00000_0000b_00002-000K&startLexposition=00000_0000Z&emphasizeText=Speak+out+for+those+who+cannot+speak)). - Millstone warning to protect “little ones” (Mt 18:6) ([stern warning](https://read.readwise.io/read/01kakqevk8gk232dj56mnh8r4z?endLexposition=00000_0000j_00004-0002&startLexposition=00000_0000g&emphasizeText=it+would+be+better+for+you+if+a+great+millstone)). - Expose works of darkness (Eph 5:11) ([exhortation](https://read.readwise.io/read/01kakqevk8gk232dj56mnh8r4z?endLexposition=00000_0000n_00000_00000-000M&startLexposition=00000_0000k&emphasizeText=Take+no+part+in+the+unfruitful+works+of+darkness%3B+rather%2C+expose+them)). - Application: Implement/verify child-protection policy; broaden training beyond pastors; watch for trauma signs ([call to action](https://read.readwise.io/read/01kakqevk8gk232dj56mnh8r4z?endLexposition=00000_0000w_00000_00000_00000-000c&startLexposition=00000_0000t&emphasizeText=If+your+church+does+not+have+a+child+protection+policy%2C+take+steps+to+implement+one)). ## 📚 References - The Wired Word lesson (internal excerpts linked above) - New York Times coverage (referenced in lesson) - Fox News coverage (referenced in lesson) - PBS News coverage (referenced in lesson) - ABC News coverage (referenced in lesson) - The Roys Report coverage (referenced in lesson) ## 🗣️ Paraphrase - A church discussion guide uses current Epstein-related developments and a pastor’s trafficking case to urge congregations to safeguard children, speak up for victims, and expose abuse. - It grounds responses in Scripture and provides questions and concrete steps to implement and enforce child-protection policies. ## 📰 Newsletter - This week: safeguarding in faith communities; policy templates; training resources. Consider documenting background checks, two-adult rules, and reporting flows. Useful reads: child protection policies, survivor-informed care, and mandated reporting primers. ## ✅ Action Items #### DevRel - Publish example policy repo and issue templates. - Record a 10-min “two-adult rule” demo. - Add quickstart for volunteer onboarding flow. #### OSPO - Define review cadence for policy updates. - Add incident intake and disclosure SOP. - Track training completion KPIs quarterly. #### Community - Host quarterly safety drills. - Launch mentorship for safety officers. - Publish budget and training milestones. #### WordPress - Documentation: policy template page and examples. - Training: short course + certification pilot. - Support: abuse-reporting escalation paths. #### The WPCC - Fund microgrants for training. - Run governance clinics for small orgs. - Publish transparent impact reports. ### FAIR - Sign policy artifacts; keep provenance logs. - Add anti-capture covenants and sunsets. - Ship scorecards for policy maturity. ## 🧪 Hypotheses - Congregations with formal policies report incidents faster. - Annual training reduces boundary violations. - Two-adult policies lower grooming opportunities. - Clear reporting lines increase survivor trust. ### 📊 Methodology - Cross-sectional survey of congregations (policy status vs. reporting lag). - Pre/post training audits; incident metrics. - Qualitative interviews with survivors and leaders. ### ❓ Questions - Which policy elements most reduce harm? - How to balance transparency and privacy? - What accountability models deter leader abuse? ### 🔮 Future Research - Effectiveness of background checks in churches. - Survivor outcomes under different reporting pathways. - Tech tooling for safe volunteer management. ### 💡 Implications - Practice: standardize policies and drills. - Policy: mandate training for all volunteers. - Education: survivor-informed curricula. ### 🧠 Learning Styles Assessment - Reading level: ~Grade 9–10 (Flesch-Kincaid estimate). #### 👀 Visual learners - Improve: policy flowcharts; reporting maps. #### 🔊 Aural learners - Improve: 3–5 min audio summaries. #### 🗣️ Verbal learners - Present: definitions and verses; keep glossaries. #### 🧩 Kinesthetic learners - Improve: tabletop reporting exercises. #### 🧠 Logical learners - Present: Q&A prompts; add decision trees. #### 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Social learners - Present: group discussions; add role-plays. #### 🧘‍♀️ Solitary learners - Improve: reflection prompts and checklists. #### 🌿 Naturalistic learners - Improve: community ecosys - Summary: Because the Epstein files continue to make front-page news, this installment of The Wired Word will focus on the danger of sexual abuse in society and church, the challenge of holding perpetrators accountable, and the need to provide effective protection of children and youths in the life of the church. Dear Class Members, Because the Epstein files continue to make front-page news, this installment of *The Wired Word* will focus on the danger of sexual abuse in society and church, the challenge of holding perpetrators accountable, and the need to provide effective protection of children and youths in the life of the church. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Epstein Files Highlight Threat of Sexual Abuse** ***The Wired Word*** **for the Week of November 23, 2025** **In the News** Last week, President Donald Trump encouraged Republicans in the House of Representatives to support a measure that would compel the Justice Department to release the Epstein files. Trump said on social media that House Republicans should vote to release these files related to the convicted sex offender "because we have nothing to hide." This was a reversal of Trump's previous position, in which he had attempted to halt the vote. The Republican party remains split over the files, and the prospect of a vote to release them had revealed a rift between the president and some of his closest political allies, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia. According to *The New York Times*, Trump recently called her a "traitor" and said that she "is working overtime to try and portray herself as a victim." Before Trump's statement, Speaker Mike Johnson predicted significant Republican support for the file release, saying that there would be "lots of votes" for the bill. He told *Fox News Sunday* that the House needed to "get this done and move it on." He added, "There's nothing to hide." On Tuesday, November 18, the House approved release of the files by a vote of 427 to 1. The previous Wednesday, lawmakers had made public more than 20,000 emails belonging to Jeffrey Epstein. In these messages, the financier and sex offender claimed that the president once "spent hours at my house" with a young woman who later accused Epstein of sexually abusing her when she was a teenager. Trump has denied any involvement in or knowledge of Epstein's sex-trafficking operation, and has said that although he and Epstein were once friendly, they had a falling out. Epstein died by suicide in a federal prison in 2019. Trump said that the Department of Justice had already released thousands of pages of documents related to Epstein. According to *Fox News*, he also noted that the agency is investigating possible ties between Epstein and "Democrat operatives" including former President Bill Clinton, LinkedIn cofounder Reid Hoffman and former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers. "The House Oversight Committee can have whatever they are legally entitled to," said Trump. Thousands of pages of court documents tied to Epstein have been made public as part of a settled lawsuit involving one of his victims, Virginia Giuffre (who died by suicide earlier this year). The records contain details of Epstein's sexual abuse and trafficking of underage girls and include the names of 150 people who were in contact with him. Julie K. Brown, author of a book on Epstein, said to *PBS News*, "The documents that we received still have redactions in them. For example, there is a deposition by one of the victims where she said she had -- was forced to have sex with two high-profile politicians. And one of the politician's [sic] names is completely redacted." Said Brown, "Well, we still need to know who some of these people are." Brad Edwards, an attorney for hundreds of Epstein's victims, told *ABC News*, "Jeffrey Epstein was the pimp and the john. He was his own No. 1 client. Nearly all of the exploitation and abuse of all of the women was intended to benefit only Jeffrey Epstein and Jeffrey Epstein's sexual desires." Edwards describes Epstein as living two lives: one in which he was sexually abusing women and girls "on a daily basis," and another in which he associated with politicians; royalty and titans of business, academia and science. Edwards and his co-counsel have sued Epstein, his estate, several financial institutions and the federal government, recovering hundreds of millions of dollars for more than 200 survivors of Epstein's sex abuse and trafficking. Years ago, Edwards told a federal judge, "Because of [Epstein's] deviant appetite for young girls, combined with his extraordinary wealth and power, he may just be the most dangerous sexual predator in U.S. history." Trafficking and abuse also occurs in the life of the church. In Oklahoma, a pastor named Elmer Baca Flores has been accused of trafficking members of a church that he ran from his home, abusing them under the guise of ministry. "Flores used his influence as a pastor to spiritually coerce the victims by targeting their religious convictions," said Mark Woodward, spokesman for the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN). According to *The Roys Report*, one church member allegedly told OBN agents that Flores gave her a test "to prove her ability to resist temptation." But during this test, he allegedly sexually battered the victim. Flores now faces nine charges, including lewd acts with a child, human trafficking for labor, and sexual battery. Donnie Anderson, the director of the OBN, said that Flores is a "predator" who is now off the streets. "He can no longer prey on the innocent and vulnerable," said Anderson. More on this story can be found at these links: [Trump Administration Highlights: President, in Reversal, Urges House to Approve Releasing Epstein Files.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJjqs9eTHTvMgxKUxOrSDPpmBBbCXB5r0dtv2NT6xPB97aJGwypGpLr9Veqq0z-2FwYTzxXXUQQMKJs5XTarXgpNLp9fBbnR2NWEObGKm8cOnEPTw8_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQFLMqjGLffnAsc-2BFYkWLcPUdL0JFlrwsUDpo-2FkZ-2Fliigrn54ZI4sJvFFA9p9qCNEN2xtrHYoxOhEGa08fUc4R0UgQgd3-2BVlhhHl2iafy-2BvaKkt-2FCpWbapPXD7ZYQNHgzhstdSpYdCdZV9cRVOe4oE79BchKYVMzdaH3sLTP2erX49IjzFWg5iLFuAf7KqugQK1mTd-2FE9jzmnNUg8MFFvb2k-3D) [*The New York Times*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJjqs9eTHTvMgxKUxOrSDPpmBBbCXB5r0dtv2NT6xPB97aJGwypGpLr9Veqq0z-2FwYTzxXXUQQMKJs5XTarXgpNLp9fBbnR2NWEObGKm8cOnEEPQj_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQEIcrIOgjP8loc0tJQNnXyCK7GAjtA-2Bm7-2FWP7-2B1fu3dw-2BenFBcfhBnvuHxsWzngOlab2KtO7B2fPPLb0k-2BrujemCGfzvFerEWh2lTt4wfelHEauO2-2BJYPa0jGtD7D5UypDdqwnzgY-2FmC1q-2FX6oFpFhXI0Z3H-2BSMyQPRaeFbwUQf4Qk8TPuStUjO9MITdGAqdaCgt7KWxpqEi6wXMHKTuS4Q-3D) [Trump Calls on House Republicans to Vote to Release Epstein Files: 'We Have Nothing to Hide.'](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUHkfJNUqj9v6O2pGodMgx2p-2FRT4PsmnDGT1VP6Lz-2FoLb2DR3M3uBtRorEGi169NNd8e2nkAJmwWbjwqBw3CqFFn4EfJVRFfSnxfNsE3JYLoEuxZHJQTsP-2FrBKrzNXoPTQI-3DhhTJ_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQAhGObQYm2p-2BfJ5L6-2F4MnO1-2FzJmfkrG9V9rD0b7NPnoVr4DvaL-2FNQk8OEzM5Ks3FgllcrEdM5bYYQ0BzzOODPOET7P-2FdG9XZWnbp9qVQlHSwszIC0rWPXctzgz-2FiioO2ojgXkr8HKuJyWwl9PtYMJ37oA-2BBxBBiGQTOo7NuQmwWQozFHqsis1mfZWSABN7N3Q-2B-2BqDtw6QnMkjOg-2BQQih3rM-3D) [*Fox News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUHkfJNUqj9v6O2pGodMgx2p-2FRT4PsmnDGT1VP6Lz-2FoLb2DR3M3uBtRorEGi169NNd8e2nkAJmwWbjwqBw3CqFFn4EfJVRFfSnxfNsE3JYLoEuxZHJQTsP-2FrBKrzNXoPTQI-3DU8_W_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQGB5roWIw67YSRBoBHOw1W-2FWJxmTf7Gmhp7kwytandhwa6kj-2FCxtREXP-2BkXZMfhcle465qb6q2nBhZZLTuEi0jA2A3N47u8Ejs2m44YmSSjCnP-2BBrLkNGnxPvH-2FEJxqyiz7g-2FfkQNy5t8V0CFdhoutcFiRPMwrDJ3ZzbUXRl58yx13Wd-2FKZJADsybyizo76SDJDjOk-2Be-2F8greDf1GtfU5D4-3D) [What the Newly Released Jeffrey Epstein Documents Reveal About His Sex-Trafficking Ring.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMzYPNkJ0XZ39JRiWx8F17tCyHVGFG7ukc17kZLG9SpJzmswo4gqFYKkvaqAzBZblVOWB4BONV7TNQ26fDLm3dLeUW60VxOdTog-2BRNPglTzJe2HSdqZUrSpSmgHmqD6pKpJDv9xPr2GB1YXr8IFE8d-2B3wC9qS-2FXUnaJhEY9UKrmPY7gw_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQFBBOdEel0u2TerBD4nSMVNFh2WOcnxSPS-2BnsCPEBTXgnblEaVxatwnLNI7uOREtB1IWsEFqLIKSjc8oIfv5Ojs-2BFrdhhKXxtB5l2RcMnBkyWyvC-2FVwklbDT3Vz0ko3wOmMci89qJe1xe79YGvaRosTMkl-2BdOH02vMDjKqbpH2E5YFAqtbjgg9SNQwGX8ANhwpLQ7YiMZ8ufk-2FB-2FuEgRqAI-3D) [*PBS News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMzYPNkJ0XZ39JRiWx8F17tCyHVGFG7ukc17kZLG9SpJzmswo4gqFYKkvaqAzBZblVOWB4BONV7TNQ26fDLm3dLeUW60VxOdTog-2BRNPglTzJe2HSdqZUrSpSmgHmqD6pKpJDv9xPr2GB1YXr8IFE8d-2B3wC9qS-2FXUnaJhEY9UKrmPqVYf_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQHZsebITN8c-2FRV3oKgs5MTR3FsbqbotP9FKWH9JMRJVni6I1WqsImMJ50e7hoGbfrQaE57pLUsOuPNT9d5HI6dx2k0OaTDq8xcrfnTWHA7mwOi-2FILDINkrMQ3knWeHXwgpp-2Fw-2B9w-2Ff-2BYzH6p5Zon2JQc9E6hA4woIFxpLH-2BGer9OhhbbgwAQD8T5zJ95EJvCEVY8e0RaCVKhy3gnw994rQw-3D) [What We Know and Don't Know About Jeffrey Epstein, According to Key Victims' Attorney.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ44mDWGkow6ms2nuHq265lMy1ZcLHMIPBQFpF71GJjuwMV4Chh0uOM8CS8Dc-2FHMVA82ZMlw-2FLBIOVmRrZLXYQKaK21B-2Foo0vJByVUahszSMJawW_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQBDH0ETDQuwDvOUt-2FThVO9PpSjdXcsoWaS98jYtk-2FyuJvEGLwAi5cJIcgxsIPr5nT-2BO72QsJTbHNgd2JcW0PRX86f6h1lAFVYjyybDvokE2F4uVBsWV8yezNZo5aSeILRLTOwJzuE-2BQT-2BVheqapuK8m0gTVxk9qeLE6tNi0wBNpp2IdrFXq4o2bD7EVLVxI2ZmCMyi92vY5UPeGpp2aLXF0-3D) [*ABC News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ44mDWGkow6ms2nuHq265lMy1ZcLHMIPBQFpF71GJjuwMV4Chh0uOM8CS8Dc-2FHMVA82ZMlw-2FLBIOVmRrZLXYQKaK21B-2Foo0vJByVUahszSMHlUL_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQE9ZUlKqsi14lOulakb4hOv2objYSJYEQRC-2FWl9B1v51wXn4ucwglkW3k-2B-2FNy-2FUdWJkWCichdPbTfeL5PpHSaumkw7weLeGW07Q-2FfLhaUPZdKzNke726hlNkcBHfjUUmZymuw8XBa2R4IVVcMfyMpa2Ivx8j0Qga0hBsfMIfhU3riAS-2FM9J4smiJo0PZZXn-2FsAQ-2FPnXIWxQQzPjcYATwtU4-3D) [Oklahoma Pastor Accused of Trafficking and Abusing Church Members.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLAVD5OncPtye8-2BZEaCMEshYqM-2BU4AK-2BuLTElyXGJbgJY8rYa2F6ppPzSzXoU2cy-2Fe8exNPhC5W4OuhP8S2xRhVY0qzFJTYTe1rh-2FjM-2BYrTsAPz7_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQMHlScphdL1fyrQgiYBzIAlLdaOyjf1woTRdEW33HktNbpuSf5BMyTpRJZvMjA6lfCKAE-2BWUcHZuLkZezfAuy-2BeVWI1iTlPjFOVMfDqjmXZFC9keX-2FWNwPGfOwnp828U44Ca1aOpEMt6axnXB1HY70ijQs2AuAh1B4YPjoMkAjhnzXspHI-2FgwNvvgCfojNsetimlHDu6TQDP5KZroXtPojo-3D) [*The Roys Report*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLAVD5OncPtye8-2BZEaCMEshYqM-2BU4AK-2BuLTElyXGJbgJY8rYa2F6ppPzSzXoU2cy-2Fe8exNPhC5W4OuhP8S2xRhVY0qzFJTYTe1rh-2FjM-2BYrTswiLK_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQGJFc-2FAZLREA36VWk87Ngl94fDLIgPGvT-2BJx284wO6PhBPhXOMJNFK9RMp4Ha7d9Pb81VkUlVBzh9Lr-2BYG6MR4wIq4S7LGtlRsXcqaD5aGhx4Ffes8xPktdB3Sv6G86IVdjp4jnSl2Blb-2BaR3OJD9Q-2BNfb1JzlH-2F6RqkfKSPiqgdlZ7Md5NzEV7-2Bt1SHWp1uLmahl1oqNmwoCM7lLFqYU3c-3D) **Applying the News Story** Explore what the Bible says about valuing and protecting children and youths. Discuss what scripture says about how to deal with predators, inside and outside the church. Reflect on whether your congregation has a child protection policy, and on what is being done to keep children and youths safe from abuse. **The Big Questions** 1. What is important to you about the Epstein files? What additional information do you seek? 2. When, if ever, has sexual abuse impacted your family, church or community? What was the effect? How did you respond? 3. Where do you see challenges in holding perpetrators of sexual abuse accountable? What can be done to improve the process that brings them to justice? 4. What concerns do you have about the safety of children in your church and community? How about other vulnerable people including those with intellectual challenges, the elderly, people who are under financial pressure, and those who are cognitively impaired due to consumption (voluntary or involuntary) of substances? 5. When have you seen a family, community or congregation traumatized by sexual misconduct? What is the cost of tolerating or overlooking such behavior? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Genesis 34:1-2***Now Dinah the daughter of Leah, whom she had borne to Jacob, went out to visit the daughters of the region. When Shechem son of Hamor the Hivite, prince of the region, saw her, he seized her and lay with her by force.* (For context, read [Genesis 34:1-31](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNXR-2BpLGnOdMSgl5QtX0zLfNDIU3pkXrtHL2adFFyI80aGPik_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQOTurvyewT7akEKViUczjDDLwUie220Dts9voLgkZZaaHyFfhxSXzmlqRWxeXHrapkazV-2BkNdCxonjh6R6r8pRN0RtgWVM05O1-2FbVUytMxknZxjlh2L4zIQJrPkeGonZcTJGvMaPv4x8WiSU-2FUsRKVA2I9X5Fhc2eBaQrhd8Pol2hoFKKFxWb-2B-2BjPVmECMcJT1-2FlcJ-2BLWsUshMPKfQeXbWs-3D).) The 34th chapter of the book of Genesis contains a grisly story of rape and violence. It begins with Dinah, a daughter of Leah and Jacob, being sexually assaulted and raped by Shechem, a prince of the Hivites. He speaks to his father Hamor, saying, "Get me this girl to be my wife" (v. 4). In the ancient world, it was not uncommon for a man to lay claim to a woman he had raped and make her his wife. When the sons of Jacob hear that Hamor and Shechem are visiting Jacob, they are "indignant and very angry, because [Shechem] had committed an outrage in Israel by lying with Jacob's daughter, for such a thing ought not to be done" (v. 7). Hamor asks for Jacob and his sons to give Dinah to Shechem in marriage, and in exchange he offers them land and anything else they want. The sons of Jacob answer Shechem deceitfully. "Only on this condition will we consent to you," they say; "that you will become as we are and every male among you be circumcised" (v. 15). On this one condition they will give their daughters to the Hivites and take Hivite daughters for themselves in marriage, so that they will "become one people" (v. 16). Hamor and Shechem agree, and they are circumcised along with the men of their city. But while they are recovering from the procedure, two of Dinah's brothers take "their swords and [come] against the city unawares and [kill] all the males" (v. 25). They slay Hamor and Shechem and rescue Dinah from Shechem's house. Jacob criticizes the brothers for their action, fearing that it will make them "odious to the inhabitants of the land" (v. 30). But the brothers defend themselves by saying, "Should our sister be treated like a prostitute?" (v. 31). > **Questions:** What is your response to the rape of Dinah and the actions of her brothers? Is justice done, and if so, how? How would you react to the sexual assault of a member of your family or congregation? What response would be helpful and healing to the victim? **Proverbs 31:8-9***Speak out for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all the destitute. Speak out; judge righteously; defend the rights of the poor and needy.* (No context needed.) Although most of the wisdom in the book of Proverbs is attributed to "Solomon son of David, king of Israel" (1:1), the 31st chapter is said to be "the words of King Lemuel," based on an "oracle that his mother taught him" (31:1). The chapter contains the words of a woman, mother of King Lemuel, addressed to her son. The Queen Mother encourages the king to speak out "for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all the destitute." The Hebrew for "all the destitute" is literally "all children of passing away." She encourages him to be justice-seeking by judging righteously, in particular defending "the rights of the poor and needy." > **Questions:** What responsibility do you have, as an individual and as a Christian, to speak out for children, who are often among "those who cannot speak"? How is God's will done when you defend their rights? How can the church community do a better job of being advocates for children? **Matthew 18:6***If any of you cause one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea.* (For context, read [Matthew 18:1-7](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDYZ96TjhI2o4Xbcp0UbaXBp-2F5AudvBSYgmJVrw5RM7P35L7D_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQLr52kfpn7xPN1UnDm3kgno-2F-2F-2FYaGmWnPwoOLxUYN3D0B0mKNwaiBMkFfzeQ5K0I-2Fnl2hxGc5DYMW78c9-2Fj5OhTzLHhNOGByr1yCHuwWpy0p-2B5SakxFrsxa-2BLxbhU7ihvXuJonRz15Cf2xMKF8f49ZBq2Y9wfg-2FdZhW8-2F3BN0LwH2ANKmOtOwlb5CHBAEZREhGPlzuWMJ9JkGhSdnG0syjU-3D).) While passing through Galilee, the disciples come to Jesus and ask him, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" (18:1). He puts a child in the middle of their group and says, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (v. 3). He praises the humility of children and says that anyone who welcomes a child in his name is really welcoming him. Then Jesus offers a stern warning to anyone who causes "one of these little ones who believe in me to sin" -- the word "sin" could also be translated "stumble." He says that it would be "better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea." Clearly, Jesus wants the children and little ones who believe in him to be protected. > **Questions:** In your family and neighborhood, what steps do you take to protect children? What does your church do to ensure child safety? What more could be done? Be specific. **Ephesians 5:11***Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness; rather, expose them.* (For context, read [Ephesians 5:3-14](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx-2F9xuITdvxpNxFuzW6j6ZGMqEzuwdVYDWN4uDUDcCQeZtFFRuq4y1XHnYKPzOQS0EG2Vo_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQOFnIOZvrxi9wePMWrOhAZFIyztESwdRZ48hUNP3wuDo0TLShsni1j5-2BYhCb-2F0cutpx10OlJHd6AhOq2THf7a5Wn876KTrtbH6nOniFv32QF-2FeaR29-2BKW0AeZM5DW3RnWGFaSGX01AEy4ApUdwVF7iThzJ6PbyaR4qSrT0y4z-2BfB-2FNy28UlAt5WQxMaFCgsAlk44S4mAvv5fKKn3cU3Fr8c-3D).) In his letter to the followers of Christ in Ephesus, an important Roman city in Asia Minor, the apostle Paul urges the people to renounce their pagan ways. Since men in the Roman world had significant sexual freedom, Paul says that they should turn from "sexual immorality and impurity of any kind" (5:3). Using the biblical metaphors of darkness and light, he tells them, "once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Walk as children of light, for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true" (vv. 8-9). Paul urges them to take no part "in the unfruitful works of darkness; rather, expose them." This may mean to rebuke fellow followers of Christ for their sin, or to rebuke people who are not followers of Christ. In either case, the goal is to live in the light of Christ, so that "Christ will shine on you" (v. 14). > **Questions:** What are some of the unfruitful works of darkness that followers of Christ should avoid today? How can we effectively discipline ourselves and fellow members of the church? What can be done to expose sin in the Christian community and wider world? **For Further Discussion** 1. TWW Team Member Mark Rouleau is concerned about church leaders who "come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves" (Matthew 7:15). What can be done to uncover wolves in the life of the church? Where have you seen accountability break down, leading to great harm? How can we better protect the sheep of the congregation, from childhood to old age? Be specific. 2. In a number of lawsuits and interviews, Virginia Giuffre accused Jeffrey Epstein and his colleague Ghislaine Maxwell of pressuring her into sexual encounters with Britain's former Prince Andrew, beginning when she was 17. [*The Associated Press*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPI1OCgc0JwHKeA79n6Q8N2vk2ICVeoCpzUhgYtB6dbsrBTpoCLMgEvLD-2FbfhKAUJdt-2BMyy0i0EAQKJeZWZRqsAm9Yd7L0c3bCNkh7EmZ60I5k7YoMCCKldP7vzRljmLV2g-3D-3Dv_1Q_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQN56Zxr439GhwN2pR-2F0a4RFI6VuYevxzwkVyVuGcxZEtcTYZh-2BC8CZoGZgSF4OMTv2uvHm0Ju9Csa9mO9q-2FyfC8d8nPu1sal2KF80PKV3JC7CiCZZ6pLsgozCqaOBvR6oqLLAZwesL4uLC11xd73PpSbIUmUNVhfCtAGm1fZIsSvXnRxPCdZFzyniAyCmez6vos-2BqY-2FDKRMDBGiGUiHG20E-3D) reports that those allegations have now cost Andrew his official titles and royal residence near Windsor Castle. Among the newly released Epstein documents is a 2011 email from Epstein to a reporter, attacking Giuffre's credibility. He says, "Yes she was on my plane, and yes she had her picture taken with Andrew as many of my employees have ... this girl is a total liar." How do you assess the veracity of such statements? What kind of evidence do you find to be compelling, beyond interviews and emails? 3. "When I was Catholic," reports TWW Team Member Mary Sells, "I went through an in-person certification required by the church to understand their policies and practices for keeping children safe, learned to identify risky adults who might pose a threat to children, learned how to listen to children when they admitted being victimized and committing to the help strategies offered to protect vulnerable children. When I moved on and joined the Episcopal Church and became a Vestry member, I committed to an annual education requirement to learn and uphold their safety policies and procedures." What specific policies and procedures does your church have for child protection? If you have been a participant in such training, what did you learn? 4. According to [*The Guardian*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEd8GTVwWweecsmfy3-2FzHzdwpJyjOQ5mMbLGkzuYibINpg4LLSIvYTv0uxPozViBPsJRkxQs0a9NpA4Cbg8oUr6RVwicBWvJWbzFwp3gYAtJs3mBxUeXQ3Jz1JlQieb-2FUQ-3D-3D6dIT_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQLrrgu1ukfMop-2BotQNvlNyJHHpj9WptPzLBvUnJqQcqRyxisfH37Hz3kWg2aOWR2ga3VWYTQmwyGGOJRR-2F0jvsU-2FCREjBIpqwns-2Bz1QvWQozdSRg06fmWL719Rb8-2FwKSrBdG-2FE-2FYDRYeaS9T0Z53Cv-2FwWGt1k6rcOIYxL99ZEkLdSFY1H3zKpqrGFq9ichOD-2BSazdwqfDRQSHSZGkCdAZck-3D), United States Attorney General Pam Bondi has assigned Jay Clayton, the interim U.S. attorney for the southern district of New York, to lead the investigation into Donald Trump's political adversaries and their ties to Jeffrey Epstein. "Jay Clayton is one of the most capable and trusted prosecutors in the country, and I've asked him to take the lead," she said. "As with all matters, the department will pursue this with urgency and integrity to deliver answers to the American people." What answers do you want? What evidence will lead to a resolution of this ongoing matter, in your opinion? **Responding to the News** If your church does not have a child protection policy, take steps to implement one. If it has one, make an effort to ensure that the policies and practices for keeping children safe are followed. Think of the church members -- beyond pastors and teachers -- who should be trained to observe and report suspicious behaviors. Keep your eyes open for adults who are behaving in suspicious ways, or children who are showing signs of trauma. Remember the words of Jesus about not causing any of the "little ones" who believe in him to stumble. **Prayer** Help us, Lord, to speak out for those who cannot speak, especially the children and youths of our congregation and community. May we defend the rights of the vulnerable, and take action to bring perpetrators of abuse to justice. We pray this in the name of Jesus, who loved the little children. Amen. ****Copyright 2025 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=G-1rTqjrUIGA-aRrP1C8-dhCt032G4wdElfom8ACf3RoMDAwdTAwMCuTHa76GG3X14CHaY3XDCRHI1qatW0Uo7kpyoM4g_f97Y79o5qkpPJv04MckBi4sjNj2PrrSp7TdwvEswQbKG6Ld4pUTSZ7ez3MELc9t3cHxGLGU3MYMBT-OBKLmx4r3WxLIo6y44JsEl3ulgDzzvAIok-MTRVZ91HsO1gA3mBgpPA1128m-r20HS0OUxSIb8m0yS5fY46AfJHQjWxk_WKNXbuw2kvEgy6xgbciE5pz-v_-XbU6YMDs6L1P_KK96ygPrD7dp0AzYq9J300-o8zS4p-sR_wok80R27Sbg8jDTxF_VsFprB5TLGEABo3ZRgwPae_3-MzEQTBIZo2LRVY3Um4JRbwQlFCM0ox0_iLD7V5lWAcfXxU0rfQEqL94zXSiWvGLTXk32iBJERmNsFgDutJTFu8_d6WY60VQ2cNBRqQOFdrR30rCMxOjfiK37oc7BZ-FAzEw0CdUC27yp3IdUduuXj83S6RsAKqVDHKUagFtrHOQs2aMAKKpQ0tY8v19V6UYjRpBCbTG-NOughO_NlzwFR068eh3sgs9VWZzpV8NAHKZx0k6NpxEk_KWrGYzNwYUX89CDL8b2Li5bxw=) <div>Dear Class Members, Because the Epstein files continue to make front-page news, this installment of The Wired Word will focus on the danger of sexual abuse in society and church, the challenge of holding perpetrators accountable, and the need to provide effective protection of children and youths in the life of the church. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> Epstein Files Highlight Threat of Sexual Abuse The Wired Word for the Week of November 23, 2025 In the News Last week, President Donald Trump encouraged Republicans in the House of Representatives to support a measure that would compel the Justice Department to release the Epstein files. Trump said on social media that House Republicans should vote to release these files related to the convicted sex offender "because we have nothing to hide." This was a reversal of Trump's previous position, in which he had attempted to halt the vote. The Republican party remains split over the files, and the prospect of a vote to release them had revealed a rift between the president and some of his closest political allies, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia. According to The New York Times, Trump recently called her a "traitor" and said that she "is working overtime to try and portray herself as a victim." Before Trump's statement, Speaker Mike Johnson predicted significant Republican support for the file release, saying that there would be "lots of votes" for the bill. He told Fox News Sunday that the House needed to "get this done and move it on." He added, "There's nothing to hide." On Tuesday, November 18, the House approved release of the files by a vote of 427 to 1. The previous Wednesday, lawmakers had made public more than 20,000 emails belonging to Jeffrey Epstein. In these messages, the financier and sex offender claimed that the president once "spent hours at my house" with a young woman who later accused Epstein of sexually abusing her when she was a teenager. Trump has denied any involvement in or knowledge of Epstein's sex-trafficking operation, and has said that although he and Epstein were once friendly, they had a falling out. Epstein died by suicide in a federal prison in 2019. Trump said that the Department of Justice had already released thousands of pages of documents related to Epstein. According to Fox News, he also noted that the agency is investigating possible ties between Epstein and "Democrat operatives" including former President Bill Clinton, LinkedIn cofounder Reid Hoffman and former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers. "The House Oversight Committee can have whatever they are legally entitled to," said Trump. Thousands of pages of court documents tied to Epstein have been made public as part of a settled lawsuit involving one of his victims, Virginia Giuffre (who died by suicide earlier this year). The records contain details of Epstein's sexual abuse and trafficking of underage girls and include the names of 150 people who were in contact with him. Julie K. Brown, author of a book on Epstein, said to PBS News, "The documents that we received still have redactions in them. For example, there is a deposition by one of the victims where she said she had -- was forced to have sex with two high-profile politicians. And one of the politician's [sic] names is completely redacted." Said Brown, "Well, we still need to know who some of these people are." Brad Edwards, an attorney for hundreds of Epstein's victims, told ABC News, "Jeffrey Epstein was the pimp and the john. He was his own No. 1 client. Nearly all of the exploitation and abuse of all of the women was intended to benefit only Jeffrey Epstein and Jeffrey Epstein's sexual desires." Edwards describes Epstein as living two lives: one in which he was sexually abusing women and girls "on a daily basis," and another in which he associated with politicians; royalty and titans of business, academia and science. Edwards and his co-counsel have sued Epstein, his estate, several financial institutions and the federal government, recovering hundreds of millions of dollars for more than 200 survivors of Epstein's sex abuse and trafficking. Years ago, Edwards told a federal judge, "Because of [Epstein's] deviant appetite for young girls, combined with his extraordinary wealth and power, he may just be the most dangerous sexual predator in U.S. history." Trafficking and abuse also occurs in the life of the church. In Oklahoma, a pastor named Elmer Baca Flores has been accused of trafficking members of a church that he ran from his home, abusing them under the guise of ministry. "Flores used his influence as a pastor to spiritually coerce the victims by targeting their religious convictions," said Mark Woodward, spokesman for the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN). According to The Roys Report, one church member allegedly told OBN agents that Flores gave her a test "to prove her ability to resist temptation." But during this test, he allegedly sexually battered the victim. Flores now faces nine charges, including lewd acts with a child, human trafficking for labor, and sexual battery. Donnie Anderson, the director of the OBN, said that Flores is a "predator" who is now off the streets. "He can no longer prey on the innocent and vulnerable," said Anderson. More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJjqs9eTHTvMgxKUxOrSDPpmBBbCXB5r0dtv2NT6xPB97aJGwypGpLr9Veqq0z-2FwYTzxXXUQQMKJs5XTarXgpNLp9fBbnR2NWEObGKm8cOnEPTw8\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQFLMqjGLffnAsc-2BFYkWLcPUdL0JFlrwsUDpo-2FkZ-2Fliigrn54ZI4sJvFFA9p9qCNEN2xtrHYoxOhEGa08fUc4R0UgQgd3-2BVlhhHl2iafy-2BvaKkt-2FCpWbapPXD7ZYQNHgzhstdSpYdCdZV9cRVOe4oE79BchKYVMzdaH3sLTP2erX49IjzFWg5iLFuAf7KqugQK1mTd-2FE9jzmnNUg8MFFvb2k-3D">Trump Administration Highlights: President, in Reversal, Urges House to Approve Releasing Epstein Files. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJjqs9eTHTvMgxKUxOrSDPpmBBbCXB5r0dtv2NT6xPB97aJGwypGpLr9Veqq0z-2FwYTzxXXUQQMKJs5XTarXgpNLp9fBbnR2NWEObGKm8cOnEEPQj\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQEIcrIOgjP8loc0tJQNnXyCK7GAjtA-2Bm7-2FWP7-2B1fu3dw-2BenFBcfhBnvuHxsWzngOlab2KtO7B2fPPLb0k-2BrujemCGfzvFerEWh2lTt4wfelHEauO2-2BJYPa0jGtD7D5UypDdqwnzgY-2FmC1q-2FX6oFpFhXI0Z3H-2BSMyQPRaeFbwUQf4Qk8TPuStUjO9MITdGAqdaCgt7KWxpqEi6wXMHKTuS4Q-3D">The New York Times</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUHkfJNUqj9v6O2pGodMgx2p-2FRT4PsmnDGT1VP6Lz-2FoLb2DR3M3uBtRorEGi169NNd8e2nkAJmwWbjwqBw3CqFFn4EfJVRFfSnxfNsE3JYLoEuxZHJQTsP-2FrBKrzNXoPTQI-3DhhTJ\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQAhGObQYm2p-2BfJ5L6-2F4MnO1-2FzJmfkrG9V9rD0b7NPnoVr4DvaL-2FNQk8OEzM5Ks3FgllcrEdM5bYYQ0BzzOODPOET7P-2FdG9XZWnbp9qVQlHSwszIC0rWPXctzgz-2FiioO2ojgXkr8HKuJyWwl9PtYMJ37oA-2BBxBBiGQTOo7NuQmwWQozFHqsis1mfZWSABN7N3Q-2B-2BqDtw6QnMkjOg-2BQQih3rM-3D">Trump Calls on House Republicans to Vote to Release Epstein Files: 'We Have Nothing to Hide.' </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUHkfJNUqj9v6O2pGodMgx2p-2FRT4PsmnDGT1VP6Lz-2FoLb2DR3M3uBtRorEGi169NNd8e2nkAJmwWbjwqBw3CqFFn4EfJVRFfSnxfNsE3JYLoEuxZHJQTsP-2FrBKrzNXoPTQI-3DU8\_W\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQGB5roWIw67YSRBoBHOw1W-2FWJxmTf7Gmhp7kwytandhwa6kj-2FCxtREXP-2BkXZMfhcle465qb6q2nBhZZLTuEi0jA2A3N47u8Ejs2m44YmSSjCnP-2BBrLkNGnxPvH-2FEJxqyiz7g-2FfkQNy5t8V0CFdhoutcFiRPMwrDJ3ZzbUXRl58yx13Wd-2FKZJADsybyizo76SDJDjOk-2Be-2F8greDf1GtfU5D4-3D">Fox News</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMzYPNkJ0XZ39JRiWx8F17tCyHVGFG7ukc17kZLG9SpJzmswo4gqFYKkvaqAzBZblVOWB4BONV7TNQ26fDLm3dLeUW60VxOdTog-2BRNPglTzJe2HSdqZUrSpSmgHmqD6pKpJDv9xPr2GB1YXr8IFE8d-2B3wC9qS-2FXUnaJhEY9UKrmPY7gw\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQFBBOdEel0u2TerBD4nSMVNFh2WOcnxSPS-2BnsCPEBTXgnblEaVxatwnLNI7uOREtB1IWsEFqLIKSjc8oIfv5Ojs-2BFrdhhKXxtB5l2RcMnBkyWyvC-2FVwklbDT3Vz0ko3wOmMci89qJe1xe79YGvaRosTMkl-2BdOH02vMDjKqbpH2E5YFAqtbjgg9SNQwGX8ANhwpLQ7YiMZ8ufk-2FB-2FuEgRqAI-3D">What the Newly Released Jeffrey Epstein Documents Reveal About His Sex-Trafficking Ring. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMzYPNkJ0XZ39JRiWx8F17tCyHVGFG7ukc17kZLG9SpJzmswo4gqFYKkvaqAzBZblVOWB4BONV7TNQ26fDLm3dLeUW60VxOdTog-2BRNPglTzJe2HSdqZUrSpSmgHmqD6pKpJDv9xPr2GB1YXr8IFE8d-2B3wC9qS-2FXUnaJhEY9UKrmPqVYf\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQHZsebITN8c-2FRV3oKgs5MTR3FsbqbotP9FKWH9JMRJVni6I1WqsImMJ50e7hoGbfrQaE57pLUsOuPNT9d5HI6dx2k0OaTDq8xcrfnTWHA7mwOi-2FILDINkrMQ3knWeHXwgpp-2Fw-2B9w-2Ff-2BYzH6p5Zon2JQc9E6hA4woIFxpLH-2BGer9OhhbbgwAQD8T5zJ95EJvCEVY8e0RaCVKhy3gnw994rQw-3D">PBS News</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ44mDWGkow6ms2nuHq265lMy1ZcLHMIPBQFpF71GJjuwMV4Chh0uOM8CS8Dc-2FHMVA82ZMlw-2FLBIOVmRrZLXYQKaK21B-2Foo0vJByVUahszSMJawW\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQBDH0ETDQuwDvOUt-2FThVO9PpSjdXcsoWaS98jYtk-2FyuJvEGLwAi5cJIcgxsIPr5nT-2BO72QsJTbHNgd2JcW0PRX86f6h1lAFVYjyybDvokE2F4uVBsWV8yezNZo5aSeILRLTOwJzuE-2BQT-2BVheqapuK8m0gTVxk9qeLE6tNi0wBNpp2IdrFXq4o2bD7EVLVxI2ZmCMyi92vY5UPeGpp2aLXF0-3D">What We Know and Don't Know About Jeffrey Epstein, According to Key Victims' Attorney. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJ44mDWGkow6ms2nuHq265lMy1ZcLHMIPBQFpF71GJjuwMV4Chh0uOM8CS8Dc-2FHMVA82ZMlw-2FLBIOVmRrZLXYQKaK21B-2Foo0vJByVUahszSMHlUL\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQE9ZUlKqsi14lOulakb4hOv2objYSJYEQRC-2FWl9B1v51wXn4ucwglkW3k-2B-2FNy-2FUdWJkWCichdPbTfeL5PpHSaumkw7weLeGW07Q-2FfLhaUPZdKzNke726hlNkcBHfjUUmZymuw8XBa2R4IVVcMfyMpa2Ivx8j0Qga0hBsfMIfhU3riAS-2FM9J4smiJo0PZZXn-2FsAQ-2FPnXIWxQQzPjcYATwtU4-3D">ABC News</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLAVD5OncPtye8-2BZEaCMEshYqM-2BU4AK-2BuLTElyXGJbgJY8rYa2F6ppPzSzXoU2cy-2Fe8exNPhC5W4OuhP8S2xRhVY0qzFJTYTe1rh-2FjM-2BYrTsAPz7\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQMHlScphdL1fyrQgiYBzIAlLdaOyjf1woTRdEW33HktNbpuSf5BMyTpRJZvMjA6lfCKAE-2BWUcHZuLkZezfAuy-2BeVWI1iTlPjFOVMfDqjmXZFC9keX-2FWNwPGfOwnp828U44Ca1aOpEMt6axnXB1HY70ijQs2AuAh1B4YPjoMkAjhnzXspHI-2FgwNvvgCfojNsetimlHDu6TQDP5KZroXtPojo-3D">Oklahoma Pastor Accused of Trafficking and Abusing Church Members. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLAVD5OncPtye8-2BZEaCMEshYqM-2BU4AK-2BuLTElyXGJbgJY8rYa2F6ppPzSzXoU2cy-2Fe8exNPhC5W4OuhP8S2xRhVY0qzFJTYTe1rh-2FjM-2BYrTswiLK\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQGJFc-2FAZLREA36VWk87Ngl94fDLIgPGvT-2BJx284wO6PhBPhXOMJNFK9RMp4Ha7d9Pb81VkUlVBzh9Lr-2BYG6MR4wIq4S7LGtlRsXcqaD5aGhx4Ffes8xPktdB3Sv6G86IVdjp4jnSl2Blb-2BaR3OJD9Q-2BNfb1JzlH-2F6RqkfKSPiqgdlZ7Md5NzEV7-2Bt1SHWp1uLmahl1oqNmwoCM7lLFqYU3c-3D">The Roys Report</a> Applying the News Story Explore what the Bible says about valuing and protecting children and youths. Discuss what scripture says about how to deal with predators, inside and outside the church. Reflect on whether your congregation has a child protection policy, and on what is being done to keep children and youths safe from abuse. The Big Questions 1. What is important to you about the Epstein files? What additional information do you seek? 2. When, if ever, has sexual abuse impacted your family, church or community? What was the effect? How did you respond? 3. Where do you see challenges in holding perpetrators of sexual abuse accountable? What can be done to improve the process that brings them to justice? 4. What concerns do you have about the safety of children in your church and community? How about other vulnerable people including those with intellectual challenges, the elderly, people who are under financial pressure, and those who are cognitively impaired due to consumption (voluntary or involuntary) of substances? 5. When have you seen a family, community or congregation traumatized by sexual misconduct? What is the cost of tolerating or overlooking such behavior? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Genesis 34:1-2 Now Dinah the daughter of Leah, whom she had borne to Jacob, went out to visit the daughters of the region. When Shechem son of Hamor the Hivite, prince of the region, saw her, he seized her and lay with her by force. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNXR-2BpLGnOdMSgl5QtX0zLfNDIU3pkXrtHL2adFFyI80aGPik\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQOTurvyewT7akEKViUczjDDLwUie220Dts9voLgkZZaaHyFfhxSXzmlqRWxeXHrapkazV-2BkNdCxonjh6R6r8pRN0RtgWVM05O1-2FbVUytMxknZxjlh2L4zIQJrPkeGonZcTJGvMaPv4x8WiSU-2FUsRKVA2I9X5Fhc2eBaQrhd8Pol2hoFKKFxWb-2B-2BjPVmECMcJT1-2FlcJ-2BLWsUshMPKfQeXbWs-3D">Genesis 34:1-31</a>.) The 34th chapter of the book of Genesis contains a grisly story of rape and violence. It begins with Dinah, a daughter of Leah and Jacob, being sexually assaulted and raped by Shechem, a prince of the Hivites. He speaks to his father Hamor, saying, "Get me this girl to be my wife" (v. 4). In the ancient world, it was not uncommon for a man to lay claim to a woman he had raped and make her his wife. When the sons of Jacob hear that Hamor and Shechem are visiting Jacob, they are "indignant and very angry, because [Shechem] had committed an outrage in Israel by lying with Jacob's daughter, for such a thing ought not to be done" (v. 7). Hamor asks for Jacob and his sons to give Dinah to Shechem in marriage, and in exchange he offers them land and anything else they want. The sons of Jacob answer Shechem deceitfully. "Only on this condition will we consent to you," they say; "that you will become as we are and every male among you be circumcised" (v. 15). On this one condition they will give their daughters to the Hivites and take Hivite daughters for themselves in marriage, so that they will "become one people" (v. 16). Hamor and Shechem agree, and they are circumcised along with the men of their city. But while they are recovering from the procedure, two of Dinah's brothers take "their swords and [come] against the city unawares and [kill] all the males" (v. 25). They slay Hamor and Shechem and rescue Dinah from Shechem's house. Jacob criticizes the brothers for their action, fearing that it will make them "odious to the inhabitants of the land" (v. 30). But the brothers defend themselves by saying, "Should our sister be treated like a prostitute?" (v. 31). <blockquote> Questions: What is your response to the rape of Dinah and the actions of her brothers? Is justice done, and if so, how? How would you react to the sexual assault of a member of your family or congregation? What response would be helpful and healing to the victim? </blockquote> Proverbs 31:8-9 Speak out for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all the destitute. Speak out; judge righteously; defend the rights of the poor and needy. (No context needed.) Although most of the wisdom in the book of Proverbs is attributed to "Solomon son of David, king of Israel" (1:1), the 31st chapter is said to be "the words of King Lemuel," based on an "oracle that his mother taught him" (31:1). The chapter contains the words of a woman, mother of King Lemuel, addressed to her son. The Queen Mother encourages the king to speak out "for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all the destitute." The Hebrew for "all the destitute" is literally "all children of passing away." She encourages him to be justice-seeking by judging righteously, in particular defending "the rights of the poor and needy." <blockquote> Questions: What responsibility do you have, as an individual and as a Christian, to speak out for children, who are often among "those who cannot speak"? How is God's will done when you defend their rights? How can the church community do a better job of being advocates for children? </blockquote> Matthew 18:6 If any of you cause one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxEE9arX6m0yHZZAbtNhYaDYZ96TjhI2o4Xbcp0UbaXBp-2F5AudvBSYgmJVrw5RM7P35L7D\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQLr52kfpn7xPN1UnDm3kgno-2F-2F-2FYaGmWnPwoOLxUYN3D0B0mKNwaiBMkFfzeQ5K0I-2Fnl2hxGc5DYMW78c9-2Fj5OhTzLHhNOGByr1yCHuwWpy0p-2B5SakxFrsxa-2BLxbhU7ihvXuJonRz15Cf2xMKF8f49ZBq2Y9wfg-2FdZhW8-2F3BN0LwH2ANKmOtOwlb5CHBAEZREhGPlzuWMJ9JkGhSdnG0syjU-3D">Matthew 18:1-7</a>.) While passing through Galilee, the disciples come to Jesus and ask him, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" (18:1). He puts a child in the middle of their group and says, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (v. 3). He praises the humility of children and says that anyone who welcomes a child in his name is really welcoming him. Then Jesus offers a stern warning to anyone who causes "one of these little ones who believe in me to sin" -- the word "sin" could also be translated "stumble." He says that it would be "better for you if a great millstone were fastened around your neck and you were drowned in the depth of the sea." Clearly, Jesus wants the children and little ones who believe in him to be protected. <blockquote> Questions: In your family and neighborhood, what steps do you take to protect children? What does your church do to ensure child safety? What more could be done? Be specific. </blockquote> Ephesians 5:11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness; rather, expose them. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx-2F9xuITdvxpNxFuzW6j6ZGMqEzuwdVYDWN4uDUDcCQeZtFFRuq4y1XHnYKPzOQS0EG2Vo\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQOFnIOZvrxi9wePMWrOhAZFIyztESwdRZ48hUNP3wuDo0TLShsni1j5-2BYhCb-2F0cutpx10OlJHd6AhOq2THf7a5Wn876KTrtbH6nOniFv32QF-2FeaR29-2BKW0AeZM5DW3RnWGFaSGX01AEy4ApUdwVF7iThzJ6PbyaR4qSrT0y4z-2BfB-2FNy28UlAt5WQxMaFCgsAlk44S4mAvv5fKKn3cU3Fr8c-3D">Ephesians 5:3-14</a>.) In his letter to the followers of Christ in Ephesus, an important Roman city in Asia Minor, the apostle Paul urges the people to renounce their pagan ways. Since men in the Roman world had significant sexual freedom, Paul says that they should turn from "sexual immorality and impurity of any kind" (5:3). Using the biblical metaphors of darkness and light, he tells them, "once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Walk as children of light, for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true" (vv. 8-9). Paul urges them to take no part "in the unfruitful works of darkness; rather, expose them." This may mean to rebuke fellow followers of Christ for their sin, or to rebuke people who are not followers of Christ. In either case, the goal is to live in the light of Christ, so that "Christ will shine on you" (v. 14). <blockquote> Questions: What are some of the unfruitful works of darkness that followers of Christ should avoid today? How can we effectively discipline ourselves and fellow members of the church? What can be done to expose sin in the Christian community and wider world? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. TWW Team Member Mark Rouleau is concerned about church leaders who "come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves" (Matthew 7:15). What can be done to uncover wolves in the life of the church? Where have you seen accountability break down, leading to great harm? How can we better protect the sheep of the congregation, from childhood to old age? Be specific. 2. In a number of lawsuits and interviews, Virginia Giuffre accused Jeffrey Epstein and his colleague Ghislaine Maxwell of pressuring her into sexual encounters with Britain's former Prince Andrew, beginning when she was 17.<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPI1OCgc0JwHKeA79n6Q8N2vk2ICVeoCpzUhgYtB6dbsrBTpoCLMgEvLD-2FbfhKAUJdt-2BMyy0i0EAQKJeZWZRqsAm9Yd7L0c3bCNkh7EmZ60I5k7YoMCCKldP7vzRljmLV2g-3D-3Dv\_1Q\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQN56Zxr439GhwN2pR-2F0a4RFI6VuYevxzwkVyVuGcxZEtcTYZh-2BC8CZoGZgSF4OMTv2uvHm0Ju9Csa9mO9q-2FyfC8d8nPu1sal2KF80PKV3JC7CiCZZ6pLsgozCqaOBvR6oqLLAZwesL4uLC11xd73PpSbIUmUNVhfCtAGm1fZIsSvXnRxPCdZFzyniAyCmez6vos-2BqY-2FDKRMDBGiGUiHG20E-3D"> The Associated Press</a> reports that those allegations have now cost Andrew his official titles and royal residence near Windsor Castle. Among the newly released Epstein documents is a 2011 email from Epstein to a reporter, attacking Giuffre's credibility. He says, "Yes she was on my plane, and yes she had her picture taken with Andrew as many of my employees have ... this girl is a total liar." How do you assess the veracity of such statements? What kind of evidence do you find to be compelling, beyond interviews and emails? 3. "When I was Catholic," reports TWW Team Member Mary Sells, "I went through an in-person certification required by the church to understand their policies and practices for keeping children safe, learned to identify risky adults who might pose a threat to children, learned how to listen to children when they admitted being victimized and committing to the help strategies offered to protect vulnerable children. When I moved on and joined the Episcopal Church and became a Vestry member, I committed to an annual education requirement to learn and uphold their safety policies and procedures." What specific policies and procedures does your church have for child protection? If you have been a participant in such training, what did you learn? 4. According to <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEd8GTVwWweecsmfy3-2FzHzdwpJyjOQ5mMbLGkzuYibINpg4LLSIvYTv0uxPozViBPsJRkxQs0a9NpA4Cbg8oUr6RVwicBWvJWbzFwp3gYAtJs3mBxUeXQ3Jz1JlQieb-2FUQ-3D-3D6dIT\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmTxEuBCgQYQcYcnvBlrewSC7-2F3pGD6iNMwH1mflH2ws-2BKUQFOekFcjO29lxI52BmQLrrgu1ukfMop-2BotQNvlNyJHHpj9WptPzLBvUnJqQcqRyxisfH37Hz3kWg2aOWR2ga3VWYTQmwyGGOJRR-2F0jvsU-2FCREjBIpqwns-2Bz1QvWQozdSRg06fmWL719Rb8-2FwKSrBdG-2FE-2FYDRYeaS9T0Z53Cv-2FwWGt1k6rcOIYxL99ZEkLdSFY1H3zKpqrGFq9ichOD-2BSazdwqfDRQSHSZGkCdAZck-3D">The Guardian</a>, United States Attorney General Pam Bondi has assigned Jay Clayton, the interim U.S. attorney for the southern district of New York, to lead the investigation into Donald Trump's political adversaries and their ties to Jeffrey Epstein. "Jay Clayton is one of the most capable and trusted prosecutors in the country, and I've asked him to take the lead," she said. "As with all matters, the department will pursue this with urgency and integrity to deliver answers to the American people." What answers do you want? What evidence will lead to a resolution of this ongoing matter, in your opinion? Responding to the News If your church does not have a child protection policy, take steps to implement one. If it has one, make an effort to ensure that the policies and practices for keeping children safe are followed. Think of the church members -- beyond pastors and teachers -- who should be trained to observe and report suspicious behaviors. Keep your eyes open for adults who are behaving in suspicious ways, or children who are showing signs of trauma. Remember the words of Jesus about not causing any of the "little ones" who believe in him to stumble. Prayer Help us, Lord, to speak out for those who cannot speak, especially the children and youths of our congregation and community. May we defend the rights of the vulnerable, and take action to bring perpetrators of abuse to justice. We pray this in the name of Jesus, who loved the little children. Amen. 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