“Safe Church” by Dr. Andrew J. Bauman is an eye-opening and powerful read for anyone passionate about making Christian communities safer and more equal. Bauman, a counselor and former pastor, dives into the tough realities of sexism and abuse in the church. He shares insights from his research and heartfelt interviews with almost 3,000 women, shining a light on stories that often go unheard—stories of people hurt by harmful theological beliefs and practices.

As a therapist, I found Bauman’s perspective deeply meaningful. He prioritizes listening to women’s voices and tackles the ways misogyny can hide behind a biblical façade. This connects strongly with values of empathy and validation that are so important in counseling. What I love most is that he doesn’t just call out the issues; he also provides practical, thoughtful steps to create healthier, more equitable church environments. It’s not just theory—it’s actionable and inspiring.

Leaders like Dr. Dan Allender describe this book as “a tour de force for more honest and holy conversation.” I couldn’t agree more. “Safe Church” isn’t just a book; it’s a call for change and healing, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to create safer spaces for everyone.