Domestic Violence

An excerpt taken from a research paper written on domestic violence and the role of the Chaplain—Janis Stone

A Wilderness of Isolation

Domestic violence takes many things away from its victim creating a wilderness of isolation. She may be taken from her family, home, friends, job, neighbors and most especially taken away from any sense of her own self. Faith, religion and spirituality might be the only resource that can be carried inside that no one can take away from her. Chaplaincy is also a resource that can help her find a faith to carry inside, or to help her find the faith she once had (Safe Havens Interfaith Partnership Against Domestic Violence, 2004).

“Domestic violence victims, perpetrators and family members seek help from clergy and religious leaders more than any other profession combined”(Horton and Williamson, 1998). Law enforcement, healthcare providers, counselors and service providers are generally trained and educated to serve in domestic violence cases. Though clergy, pastors and chaplains are not called to be experts in the field of domestic violence, due to the insidious and dangerous nature of this crime/crisis, it is paramount that anyone serving this community of need become well educated on the subject matter and on the subject to avoid further damaging the victim psychologically, emotionally and spiritually.

“If we are going to provide manna in the wilderness, we first need to get to know the wilderness.” (PFJCI Chaplaincy Services).