There are many shapes that a ministry in battered women’s issues could take. Ministers, seminarians, task forces, social action groups could take on muli-level involvement. The church has many similarities to other volunteer and professional organizations that work with battered women and their family members. But, the church is also different. The cork of the church has theological foundations that cannot be expected in other volunteer and professional groups.
The Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault recognizes that dealing with issues of violence in relationships can cause conflict with congregations and communities, especially when the violent relationship involves prominent families or families with many relative in the area. Be prepared for
responses such as denial, cover-up and blaming of the pastor. (“If the pastor hadn’t brought this up, everything would still be fine.”) Dealing with violence within rural relationships is a complex issue with many ramifications.
For more information and/or to receive a free “Guide for Clergy” booklet, please contact the nearest domestic violence/sexual assault program or the Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault toll free number at:
800-990-3877
Resource
Booklets were made possible through a project of:
North Dakota Council on Abuse Women's Services
Montana Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
Wyoming Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
