We Encourage You to Speak To A Knowledgeable Figure in your church or affiliated with your faith.

Battered Women’s Shelter does not seek to become experts in the various religious perspectives on domestic violence. In fact, if you are a woman (or man) of faith who is dealing with domestic violence, domestic violence advocates cannot and should not be answering all the faith based questions that victims and offenders often have. Advocates have traditionally not been trained in the laws and doctrine of each religion.

Likewise, religious officials should not be handling the domestic violence issues a local shelter or domestic violence program would be able to. Religious persons have not traditionally been trained in the laws protecting persons from violence in their homes.

It would be best if the victim could benefit from the knowledge, skills, resources, and compassion of representatives from both of the above groups.

Religion can sometimes be a very liberating source of strength for persons of faith. However, when used incorrectly, faith can be viewed as oppressive. As with many wonderful gifts, knowledge and skills; when used in the wrong way they can be very harmful.

NO RELIGION BASED ON LOVE WOULD EVER CONDONE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE.

It is important to remember the facts:

• Persons from all faiths have become victims of domestic violence.

• Persons from all faiths have become offenders of domestic violence.

• Families sitting next to you at your place of worship can be involved in violent relationships.

If you are struggling with issues of faith and domestic violence WE URGE YOU to find a domestic violence hotline to call regarding your immediate safety. Once you are safe you will be able to connect with your religious representative and make an appointment to speak with them about the faith based questions that you are facing. If you do not know a local clergy member who is sensitive to domestic violence issues, our staff will help you find one. Remember: If you stay at home out of fear, shame and confusion, if you continue being victimized, you will never escape the life of abuse.

Please call us and we can help you start the process of finding a peaceful life.