The SBC Executive Committee has launched the Fortify Initiative, a new effort designed to bring abuse prevention and response training directly to churches through regional events and partnerships with state conventions.
This new initiative was announced during the Southern Baptist Conference of Associational Leaders annual meeting June 7. SBCAL president Ray Gentry encouraged associational missionaries to take this new resource back to their respective states and churches.
“The Fortify Initiative provides a roadmap for associations to make our churches safe places for all who attend, and to know how to deal with those who would or have caused harm to the vulnerable,” Gentry said.
All Fortify resources are free for host organizations.
What is Fortify?
Fortify is a training initiative focused on helping churches:
- Prevent abuse before it occurs
- Respond appropriately when allegations arise
- Care for survivors
- Develop safer ministry environments
- Strengthen church policies and procedures
Who is it for?
Fortify is intended for:
- Pastors
- Church staff
- Ministry leaders
- Volunteers
- Child and student ministry workers
- Anyone responsible for church safety and policies
How does it work?
Churches and individuals can either attend a scheduled Fortify training event or host a customized event for their church, association or region.
Through the Fortify website, organizers can:
- Browse available training topics
- Review a roster of expert presenters
- Submit a speaker request for an event
The website also provides planning and promotional resources, including:
- Sample event schedules
- Downloadable graphics
- Event planning checklists
Additional training and resource materials are available in both English and Spanish and can be requested through an online form.
Why now?
The initiative is part of the SBC Executive Committee’s ongoing effort to equip churches with practical abuse prevention resources. SBC leaders have emphasized that abuse prevention is best carried out at the local church and state convention level, where leaders can address state-specific laws and ministry contexts.
What topics will be covered?
Fortify training focuses on areas such as:
- Recognizing abuse and grooming behaviors
- Abuse prevention best practices
- Responding to allegations
- Mandatory reporting considerations
- Survivor care
- Building a culture of safety in the church
Church leaders can find event information, training topics, resources and registration details through the SBC Abuse Prevention & Response website.
Read more stories from the 2026 SBC Annual Meeting in Orlando
