How Church Army brings hope to women in the sex industry.
Since biblical times women who sell sex have had a bad reputation. And yet, if we consider the example of Tamar in Genesis 38, the existence of these women is indicative of a society that has failed them.
In the UK, approximately 105,000 people are involved in the sex industry: most of these are women. These are not just numbers; they represent people scarred by hardship and suffering. Many of these women face complex and harrowing challenges who need us to see them.
Does it amaze you, as it did me, to learn that two women involved in sex work (Tamar and Rahab) feature in the genealogy of Jesus? We first encounter Rahab in the book of Joshua, where in an act of bravery she risks her life, and her entire family, by hiding Joshua’s spies. Incredibly, in the opening verses of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is cited as her direct descendent.
What a powerful demonstration that each of us are made in the image of God and how He can use us for incredible things, even those who are overlooked and stigmatised.
However, for most of society, the struggles faced by individuals in the sex industry are overlooked. They are seen as deviant and immoral and sometimes lesser people. But the truth is, sex work and its devastating impacts, should be a concern to all of us.
It is important to know that many women often feel they have no choice but to enter the sex industry, and there are many who are coerced into it. The consequences can be extreme, leading to addiction, significant risk of violence, long-lasting trauma with 3 in 4 women suffering from forms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and even loss of life.
How do we show God’s love to those affected by the sex industry?
Church Army’s Ruby Project exists to support women affected by the sex industry, offering hope to those who feel trapped and unloved.
Just as Jesus showed compassion towards a sex worker in Luke 7:37-47, our hearts are stirred to see every person impacted by the sex industry as a beloved child of God.
Mia’s Story
“I grew up in care and had nobody. The Ruby Project helped me find stability and get off the streets after nearly 6 years. People need to understand, we do this because we have no other option. The Ruby Project doesn’t judge us; they help us”
Mia *name changed for protection
The Ruby Project: Empowering Women Through Compassion and Acceptance
Church Army’s Ruby Project seeks to serve women like Mia who have nowhere else to turn and stand with them throughout their journey. Through trauma-informed practice and care we support women through outreach programmes, safe spaces, practical assistance, and linking women with other professional agencies, while providing an opportunity to explore faith.
Thanks to the Ruby Project, Mia has been able to find a path out of sex work and now has her own home, is in a stable relationship and was excited to tell us she has a dog. For Mia, the support from The Ruby Project has been transformational.
‘The women we serve aren’t in spaces where they would normally hear about the heart of Jesus. It’s fundamental that a ministry like ours is here.’
Ruby Project Manager
Will you stand with those affected by the sex industry?
Be a lifeline for someone who needs to hear there is hope today. Donate by visiting churcharmy.org/ruby
