Ep 12. SPECIAL: Theological Engagement on Child Abuse & the ELCA's Special Message on Child Protection

Ep 12. SPECIAL: Theological Engagement on Child Abuse & the ELCA's Special Message on Child Protection

Author: Godly Response to Abuse in a Christian Environment (GRACE) November 20, 2025 Duration: 56:27

Guest: Victor Vieth.

In this special release podcast, Robert speaks with GRACE Board Member and Chief Program Officer for Education & Research for Zero Abuse Project, Victor Vieth, live at the 16th annual Virginia Crimes Against Children Conference. Victor and Robert discuss what the Bible has to say about corporal punishment, the necessity of theological engagement on the issue of child abuse, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America's (ELCA) groundbreaking social message on child protection that was adopted in November of 2025. And as an added bonus, hear about Victor's encounter with Johnny Cash.

Resources Mentioned:


Disclaimer: All opinions expressed by podcast guests are their own and may not represent the views of GRACE as an organization. Similarly, the presence of a guest on the podcast does not constitute an endorsement of them, their work, or any organization they represent. This podcast is also not a forum for GRACE to discuss past, present, or future investigations or engagements but rather to draw out broader themes, principles, and research around abuse in faith contexts.


There’s a difficult conversation happening in many faith communities, one that can no longer be avoided. The Grace Awakening: Reckoning with Abuse in the Church is a space where that conversation is centered with clarity, compassion, and a commitment to truth. Hosted by the team at GRACE-Godly Response to Abuse in a Christian Environment-this podcast goes beneath the surface to examine how power operates, how systems can fail, and why patterns of harm persist within Christian contexts. You’ll hear from leading experts, journalists, and thinkers who help dissect these systemic issues, not to condemn from a distance, but to navigate a path toward accountability and healing. Each episode tackles tough, necessary questions, often focusing on stories and dynamics that have remained hidden. The goal is understanding and, ultimately, transformation. For anyone who cares about the health and integrity of spiritual communities, this series offers vital perspective and a sobering yet hopeful dialogue. Tune in for a podcast that believes faith should be a place of safety, not secrecy.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 16

The Grace Awakening: Reckoning with Abuse in the Church
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