Faith & Religion

None of us as helpers should ever put a battered woman in the position of having to choose between her safety and the support of her religious community. She needs both... and its up to us to provide that.
Rev. Dr. Marie M. Fortune, Director, FaithTrust Institute.

Issues of faith and religion are often central in the lives of many domestic violence victims and their families who turn to the faith community for guidance and comfort. Dealing with this violence is complex and has many ramifications. Knowledge of the issues, the impact of domestic violence and the resources available for intervention can allow faith leaders to serve individuals in need of assistance more effectively. Faith leaders have a unique opportunity to educate and sensitize their congregations to the impact that domestic violence has on their community and society as a whole.

Certain interpretations of particular religious tenets can be used by batterers to manipulate and control their partners. The use of these teachings to justify abusive behavior and the imbalance of power within a relationship can further contribute to the feeling of guilt and shame many victims experience as a result of the abuse. Responding to issues of violence in relationships can be difficult, especially when the violent relationship involves prominent families or families with many relatives in the area. Faith leaders should be prepared for responses such as denial, cover-up, and blaming. (If you hadnt brought this up, everything would still be fine.)