 |
|
|
Stories of Hope and Inspiration After Violence Response from a Advocate1. What are Phil’s greatest needs at this time in his life? Phil needs to realize that his vision to reunite his family is not the only way to resolve the situation for him and his family. The harm of domestic violence doesn’t just repair it’s self because the one who committed the crime decides that he needs, wants, or can change. It is good to gain insight and decide to behave respectfully toward your family - but it is not a given that the family wants you back in their home or lives. Also Phil needs to understand that his acts of abuse were not caused by his depression or his alcohol and drug problems. His actions are rooted in a belief system that encourages men to believe that they are privileged people and that their wants and needs are more important than other members of their families. 2. What might a local congregation offer to a man in Phil’s situation? A man in Phil’s situation needs to hear the truth. A religious leader could let male congregation members know that they are not more cherished members of their households than their wives and children. Also the congregation could help them become aware of the harm they have caused their family. The long-term affects on children who are exposed to domestic violence and child abuse are intricate and it will take lots of time to heal from the events. Helpful community resources are vital to their recovery. The whole family needs the proper support to get clear understanding on what happened in their home and how they are not responsible for the destruction of the abuser. 3. How might pastoral care dovetail with support offered by the faith-based batterer intervention program? Hopefully both the pastoral care and the BIP are using Bible scripture that supports the whole family’s right to freedom from all forms of abuse and the language pinpoints how imperative a peaceful home is to all household members’ sanity and wellbeing. 4. What challenges does ministering to a man like Phil present to a religious leader? I’m not sure. I think it depends. Sharon Giles |
