Domestic violence

Ten Things Your Congregation Can Do About Domestic Violence

In every congregation of every faith, victims, survivors and abusers sit in our pews. Some are listening for words of recognition, understanding, comfort and healing, hoping to hear that the church stands with them and wants them to choose life. All need to hear a clear message that domestic violence is against the will of God. Our silence makes us complicit to the suffering. Presbyterians Against Domestic Violence Network (PADVN) invites you to make your church a place where the gospel of wholeness is heard and lived out. We offer the following 10 suggestions to aid you in that journey. …

2016 Resources: What Can Your Congregation Do?

As you prepare to observe Domestic Violence Awareness month with your congregation this October, we hope that you will take advantage of the many resources that Presbyterians Against Domestic Violence PADVN) has to offer. This year we are lifting up selections from recent resource packets that will include educational presentations, worship resources, sermon ideas, and informative bulletin inserts.

Anguished Hearts

A 7-session study on domestic violence for use in congregations, title is taken from Psalm 55:4a, “My heart is in anguish within me ...” The seven sessions cover different faces of abuse; spouse/partner, child, elder, sibling, dating violence and abuse of vulnerable people. Can be used for church school classes, groups, sessions, retreats or other educational events sponsored by the church. Available from the church store for $8.00. PDS# 7027003025. Order online or call (800) 524-2612.

Men in the Mirror: Constructing and Applying a Christ-centered Masculinity to Interpersonal Relationships

13-session curriculum for use in addressing violence against women and girls

What does it mean to be a mature healthy man? In every society, males of all ages hear and internalize a variety of messages about the definition of, and “appropriate” expression of their masculinity. Some of these messages have very positive impacts on the development and sense of identity of males. Other internalized messages have destructive implications for a man’s well being and those with whom he shares relationships. Internalized messages of identity left unexamined, often create deeply ingrained patterns of relationship problems that men struggle with throughout their …

2015 Domestic Violence Awareness Resources: Saturday People

Presbyterians Against Domestic Violence Network (PADVN), one of the 10 networks of the Presbyterian Health, Education and Welfare Association (PHEWA), urges Presbyterians to be agents of healing by collaborating with our community allies in ending the violence. The church, bringing a faith perspective to this collaboration, has a unique voice in this effort.  We offer here worship and awareness resources to assist in your own observances, in October and throughout the year.