Clergy Information

Hope For Healing. Org

Resources and Information For Clergy...

"Help! I'm the pastor of a rural, medium sized church.
A mother just phoned saying her daughter had been raped by her boyfriend.
What do I do now?" (Actual question from a pastor.) 

 

The Problem:

Domestic Violence, Family Violence, Intimate Partner Violence. Different terms for the same problem. Any form of violence within a relationship or family. It can involve hitting or other acts of physical violence but it doesn't have to. Domestic violence also includes controlling the victim emotionally, spiritually, financially, physically or sexually. The victim is often isolated from friends and family until the perception on the victim's part is that there is no one left to turn to for help. Domestic violence knows no boundaries. It happens in every socioeconomic level, race, age, religious background and in both genders.

 

Statistics:

1:4 Women and 1:9 Men are victims of domestic violence at some point in their lives.

(CDC Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey 2005).

 

1 in 5 female high school students reports being physically and/or sexually abused by a dating partner.

 (National Domestic Violence Hotline)

 

Helping is easier than you think!

Know your ABC's!
Admit that this happens in your church. 
Believe the survivor. 
Counseling and support resources are available on the internet and may be available in your community. Contact us to help you find them. 

Why? 
Because your church members deserve your help. 

Raise Awareness within your Church Family!


 October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Anytime is a good time to raise awareness of domestic violence. During the months of April and October there is an added national focus. Use these tools to help in your congregation. If you need more help contact us. We can help.

Awareness Flyer Bulletin Insert Liturgical Readings
Prayer Service Bulletin (Customizable) Ways to Help Pulpit Helps
Domestic Violence Brochure Fact Sheet

Tips Creating a Safe Environment
Resource Sheet Prayers for Domestic Violence Prayer Service Scenarios for Awareness Moment

    

Besides the website we also offer:  

  • Oasis Church Training
  • Clergy email support
  • Library loaner program
  • Speakers who can visit your church
  • Referrals to local resources
  • Education both online and offline
  • Newsletters
  • And more!

To find out about our

Church Training program for

Domestic Violence Help

Oasis Churches

download a free brochure here. Oasis Churches

(PDF file requires the free Adobe Reader.)

 

For more information contact:
hopeinfo@hopeforhealing.org 

or leave a message in our Guestbook Now.

View our blog, Secondhand Hope, to learn more.

Secondhand Hope