Our Unified Stand Against Human Trafficking
Ending What Is Evil
A Monthly Publication of the Church Ambassador Network
In the tapestry of our great state, there is a thread of darkness that many of us would prefer to ignore. Human trafficking, the modern-day sale of human beings for profit, is not a distant tragedy; it is an Ohio crisis.
From our major highways to our small-town motels, the image of God is being commodified and crushed under the weight of exploitation.
But there is a growing light in the darkness. This week, we have seen powerful evidence that when the government, the Church, and the community unite, evil loses its grip.
A Call to the Summit: Ohio’s Bold Leadership
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and his Human Trafficking Initiative (HTI) are once again leading the charge with the 2026 Human Trafficking Summit, scheduled for Thursday, July 30, in Columbus. This summit is more than just a meeting; it is a tactical gathering of law enforcement, legal experts, and advocates dedicated to innovative strategies for prevention and prosecution.
As pastors, our presence and influence are vital. The HTI recognizes that the Church is often the first place a survivor turns for hope.
When the State uses the "sword" of justice (Romans 13:4) and the Church uses the "balm" of the Gospel, the chains of slavery begin to break.
Celebrating the Frontlines: The Freedom Collective
While we advocate for better laws, we must also support those doing the grueling work of restoration.
We recently celebrated a beautiful milestone: The Freedom Collective was honored with the Community Impact Award by Salem Media. Based in Central Ohio, this faith-based organization is a beacon of hope, providing 24/7 crisis response, a drop-in center, and a safe home for survivors of sexual exploitation.
Their work reminds us of the words of the great abolitionist William Wilberforce:
"You may choose to look the other way but you can never say again that you did not know." (William Wilberforce, Speech to the House of Commons, Wilberforce Academy).
The Freedom Collective refuses to look away, proving that the love of Christ is stronger than the cruelty of the trafficker.
The Shepherd’s Responsibility
Our mandate is clear. In Isaiah 61:1, the prophet, who is later quoted by our Savior, declares that the Spirit of the Lord is upon us to "bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound."
This is not a political issue; it is a human dignity issue. When we stay silent, we allow the industry of exploitation to thrive. When we speak, we become the voice of those who have been silenced by fear and trauma.
Practical Steps for the Ohio Pastor
Register for the HTI Summit: Join Ohio Attorney General and other leaders on Friday, July 30, at the Hyatt Regency Columbus. Information can be found at the Ohio Attorney General’s website.
Support Faith-Based Responders: Reach out to organizations like The Freedom Collective to see how your church can provide meals for their drop-in center, volunteer for their mentorship programs, or include them in your monthly mission giving.
Preach on Sexual Integrity: Break the silence on pornography and the objectification of women. Creating a culture of confession and healing in the church is the first step in starving the trafficking industry of its "customers."
Join the Movement
Join the "Hope and a Future" Marriage, Family, and Evangelism Initiative: Strengthen the families in your pews so they are healthy enough to pour into those in crisis in your community.
The Freedom Collective Volunteer Training – Sign up for virtual volunteer training to learn how you and your members can safely engage in the fight against exploitation.
The Narrative Podcast – Listen to recent episodes featuring guests like AG Dave Yost.
Register for the Essential Summit on Friday, October 23: Tickets reduced to just $100 for church groups of 10 or more, and both lunch and dinner are included for those in the Church Leadership Track!
The Church Ambassador Network is a ministry of Center for Christian Virtue. They exist to serve and resource the Church in Ohio to understand the times and know how to respond. Read more about their mission at CCV.org/CAN
