Domestic Violence

If you are experiencing domestic violence call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 or TTY 1−800−787−3224 or go to the National Domestic Hotline website: http://www.thehotline.org/ 

This topic is very sensitive. For that reason it is important to recognize that there are survivors of domestic violence in your parish as well as perpetrators of domestic violence. A topic like this can trigger past or current trauma among survivors. If you encounter someone who is a survivor or perpetrator of domestic violence direct them to qualified professionals who work with this issue.

One of the most dangerous and deadliest times for a person experiencing domestic violence is when they are planning to leave or do leave. Safety is important. If you or someone you know is suffering from domestic violence call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233 or TTY 1−800−787−3224 or go to the National Domestic Hotline website: http://www.thehotline.org/ .

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Dubuque may also available in your area for counseling services. https://www.catholiccharitiesdubuque.org/contact-us/

Opening Prayer

Prayer to the Holy Family
Jesus, Mary and Joseph,
in you we contemplate
the splendour of true love;
to you we turn with trust.
Holy Family of Nazareth,
grant that our families too
may be places of communion and prayer,
authentic schools of the Gospel
and small domestic churches.
Holy Family of Nazareth,
may families never again experience
violence, rejection and division;
may all who have been hurt or scandalized
find ready comfort and healing.
Holy Family of Nazareth,
make us once more mindful
of the sacredness and inviolability of the family,
and its beauty in God’s plan.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph,
Graciously hear our prayer.
Amen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(from Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis)

 

Scripture Reading – August 27 is the Feast of St. Monica, a survivor and patroness of domestic violence survivors. Ephesians 5:25-32 is from the Sunday before her feast day.

Catechesis Video (because of the sensitive nature of this topic videos are longer than usual)

Catechesis Reflection Questions

Grades 7-12

  1. What can we learn from Jesus’ witness that can help us be supportive of those who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence?
  2. How can we reduce violence in our communities, homes, at school?
  3. Domestic violence is about power and control over another person. What ways does our society promote this dangerous dynamic? What can we do to change that in our own lives and in our community/nation?

Parish Leadership/Committees

  1. What can we learn from Jesus’ witness that can help us be supportive of those who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence?
  2. How can we reduce violence in our communities, homes, at school?
  3. Domestic violence is about power and control over another person. What ways does our society promote this dangerous dynamic? What can we do to change that in our own lives and in our community/nation?

Faith sharing/Parishioners/College Students

  1. What can we learn from Jesus’ witness that can help us be supportive of those who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence?
  2. How can we reduce violence in our communities, homes, at school?
  3. Domestic violence is about power and control over another person. What ways does our society promote this dangerous dynamic? What can we do to change that in our own lives and in our community/nation?
  4. The bible has been used to justify domestic violence. As Catholics we reject such interpretations. How can we help others understand this error?

Witness Video – (because of the sensitive nature of this topic videos are longer than usual)

Witness Video Questions

Grades 7-12

  1. A common question survivors of violence get is “why do you stay?” What are some of the reasons why those who are experiencing domestic violence stay in violent situations?
  2. Do you know what to do if you or someone you love is experiencing violence?
  3. Who can you talk to if you or someone you love is experiencing violence?

Parish leadership/Committees

  1. A common question survivors of violence get is “why do you stay?” What are some of the reasons why those who are experiencing domestic violence stay in violent situations?
  2. Is awareness about domestic violence a part of marriage prep? If not, work with professionals to help make it a part of the program.
  3. What can you do to bring about greater awareness on the issue of domestic violence?

Faithsharing/Parishioners/College Students

  1. A common question survivors of violence get is “why do you stay?” What are some of the reasons why those who are experiencing domestic violence stay in violent situations?
  2. How can you be of assistance/support to survivors of domestic violence?
  3. What are the challenges to being supportive to survivors of domestic violence?

 

Action Steps

Grades 7-12

  1. Pray for survivors of domestic violence that they may find safety and security.
  2. If you know someone in your school who is experiencing domestic violence be supportive of them while providing above resources.
  3. Organize awareness campaign on domestic violence for your school/church.

Parish Leadership/Committees

  1. Make resources available for parishioners regarding domestic violence. Consider putting some in women’s restrooms so they can access them privately in case an abuser is nearby.
  2. Discuss how your parish can be a safe place for those experiencing domestic violence to come and be connected to professional resources
  3. Invite professionals to come speak at your parish about domestic violence.

Faithsharing/Parishioners/College Students

  1. Pray for survivors of domestic violence that they may find safety and security.
  2. Volunteer for a shelter or agency that works with domestic violence survivors.
  3. Help bring awareness about domestic violence to your school, workplace, parish, and/or community.

Closing Prayer

From now on, Lord,
Help me to bring your love everywhere:
to schools and hospitals,
to marketplaces and theaters,
to press and television.
No one should be deprived
of the environment of love.
Lord, love is the means you want me to use
to bear witness to you,
or you would have shown me another way.

(From Prayers of Hope, Words of Courage,
by Cardinal Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan,
Pauline Books, 2002)

Bonus Video (it’s a bit dated but still has good information)