|
Therapist Response
Admit that domestic violence exists. Facing this fact is difficult for the church because the top three abusive groups are the military, police officers, and the clergy. Since the church has contributed to the problem of domestic violence, it’s not eager to admit their role and change. If the church is not willing to address this issue directly then it can address it indirectly by:
- including prepared liturgy once a quarter in church services, particularly during Domestic Violence Awareness Month
- collect old cell phones once a quarter to donate to domestic violence victims
- provide an opportunity for a former victim to share her testimony to the church
- have someone on church staff, preferably the Senior Pastor, become trained in domestic violence to learn what it is and how to direct the victim to safety
Once a church admits that domestic violence exists and incorporates these programs above, then there will much more the church can do to significantly decrease domestic violence and create safety for the victims.
Catherine DeLoach Lewis, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therapist Response
The most important thing the church can do is to recognize the problem of domestic violence, be curious about understanding the issue, and seek solutions to eliminate abuse. To educate and train faith community leaders and members, churches must proactively locate and partner with the services providers and other resources in the community for both victims and perpetrators. Find the experts, find the resources.
On another practical note, they could include community agencies that are addressing issues of domestic violence in their mission budget or encourage members to volunteer at local agencies.
When a church family shows evidence of domestic abuse, the church staff should refer to those with specialized knowledge. The perpetrator must be directed to a batterer intervention program and the victim to victim services. Local churches need to adopt a policy of zero tolerance for domestic violence.
Carolyn Rexius, LCSW Executive Director Christians as Family Advocates Eugene, Oregon
|
