Beginning in January of 2024, the Psalm 82 Initiative has partnered with The Banner Institute, which is based in Monroe, Louisianna. The resulting fellowship provides coaching, consulting, and training services that can assist individuals, families and organizations as they navigate the complexities of abuse situations.

Tom has been a pastor for over 20 years and is the founder of the Psalm 82 initiative. He has extensive experience coaching individuals and organizations through the complex personal, relational, and legal dynamics that are often associated with abuse. This experience also includes crisis management for situations with complicating factors such as the public relations pitfalls that high-profile cases can produce or the cultural challenges an organization faces when confronting an internal conflict.

Whether you are a leader, advocate, or victim, this fellowship means you can now schedule your own consultation with Tom. Follow the link below to the Banner Institute webpage and complete the scheduling form.

For Church Leaders

Ten years ago a survey (see graph below) was done by the IMA World Health organization and Sojourners (Lifeway) that showed that pastors had a concerning lack of awareness regarding the prevalence of abuse in their church. In a recent study, that awareness has, thankfully, been increased, but there is still work to be done. In particular, churches need training. In addition to our 4 Tools Courses, we also provide mentoring for church leaders and advocates who desire to better recognize and respond to abuse. We also consult with churches regarding particular cases that they may be facing. 

For too long churches have left the topic of abuse off the table, thinking that it wasn't something that was a significant problem. However, there is a tremendous opportunity for the church to be a powerful witness to the life changing power of the gospel. We would love to be an encouragement to you as you seek to follow Psalm 82. In this passage God calls the leaders of His people to recognize and respond to abuse, we cannot remain silent. In taking up the challenge, we will provide a tangible demonstration of the love of God, which provides a fearless freedom. 

For Advocates...

While we do offer training that will greatly help advocates, there is no substitute for experience, and occasionally you may run into a case that is particularly challenging. We provide confidential consulting for just such circumstances. If you would like to take advantage of our 20 years worth of experience in confronting abuse in a wide variety of contexts, cultures, and communities, we would love to be an encouragement to you, as you help others. 

For Victims...

We are always happy to provide coaching to victims who would like help with their particular case. While a coaching call is not a substitute for therapy, you can think of us like a friendly place for you to work toward understanding your situation and how to take steps to deal with it safely and biblically. If you choose to contact us, please be sure to do so safely. If you have a pastor or advocate who is currently working with you, we would love to help both them and you as you work through how God would have you deal with your situation.