Religious Aspects Of Domestic Violence

Instructor: Patrick Bradley

FACT SHEET

The Religious Aspects of Domestic Violence Workshop deals with the Nature of Domestic Violence (statistics, power, why it continues, roadblocks, do's and don'ts); Perpetrator's Excuses (e.g., blaming the victim, "the bible says...", drinking and drugging); Domestic Violence as Learned Behavior (accepted by society, accepted by the church, taught in the media, "not caused by...", assault); Domestic Violence and Scripture (Gospel, Hebrew and Christian passages); Protection Orders (how to get them, who is most knowledgeable, what good is a piece of paper?). The workshop will include role playing and group exercises. This course is certified by P.O.S.T. for Peace Officers, Detention Officers, Dispatchers, and Coroners. (6 Contact Hours)

Who should attend? and Why?

Clergy --- They are the leaders of the church who decide what should be emphasized from the pulpit.

Church workers such as religious education directors, youth ministers, and others in similar positions of authority -- They supervise the church volunteers and have contact with victims of domestic violence.

Church volunteers such as Sunday school teachers, youth program workers, music ministers and musicians --- They have first contact with victims of domestic violence and need to know how to make appropriate referals.

Mental health professionals. --- They see the victims in counseling and they need a knowledge of the religious teachings that impact domestic violence.

First responders --- they see the effects of domestic violence and they need to know the religious excuses of perpetrators.