October 8, 2007

Believing we can make a difference, GBCS is giving domestic violence high priority by addressing it through legislative advocacy and educational forums. Model seminars are being designed for annual conferences and/or local churches with the goal of preparing lay and clergy to be able to appropriately intervene when a victim or perpetrator seeks help.

Rev. Christie recounts the powerful story of the devastating effects of Domestic Violence, introduces us to the truth-tellers among us, and bids us invitation to hear their stories -- each a call to justice and compassion -- found in the articles which follow: "Her Story" and "Together for Justice and Living in Faith."

Domestic violence is a serious and hidden social problem. Violence and abuse within families and has major ramifications for all those affected. All use of violence is unacceptable and prohibited under Mozambican law and represents a violation of fundamental human rights. Every effort must be made to prevent and combat such actions.

A United Methodist clergywoman from the Virginia Annual Conference recounts her story of the long, painful journey on the road of domestic violence and the peace of discovering God's sustaining presence along the way.

One result of the recent raids of workplaces, homes and even churches by the ICE is that these actions force undocumented people further underground and makes them fearful of going outside, much less trusting public servants such as police or even hospital personnel. Consequently, crimes against undocumented immigrants go unreported and those who commit such crimes, such as abusive partners, are not held accountable.

Targeted and unmitigated violence against women and girls requires much more effective and concerted action at global and local levels. The Shame of War: Sexual Violence against Women and Girls, a new book by the UN, is a call to action!

The current lack of affordable housing options – particularly for victims of domestic violence – lies in stark contrast to the vision of a day when all persons will enjoy pleasant, peaceful, and secure shelter under their own vines and fig trees and “no one shall make them afraid.” This housing instability heightens the risk for women experiencing domestic violence and all too often leaves them with the choice of staying in an abusive home or leaving and having no shelter at all.

Dr. Brown's powerful interpretation of the 1 Samuel 25 story of Abigail and her husband Nabal begs of us the question: "So where are the women: the thousands of women who remain silent in abusive relationships?"

The story of Judges 19 is both a truth-telling and a troubling text that prompts our thinking about Domestic Violence and the church's response.

Need resources for connecting with justice and advocacy organizations who address Domestic Violence? Here are those resources!

Domestic violence causes far more pain than the visible marks of bruises and scars.