For these reasons, it is important that clergy learn how to recognize and deal with domestic violence. The second most important step in your efforts to help is to understand and to declare that domestic violence is a crime and will not be tolerated. The worship service, although approached from various theological perspectives, provides clergy with an opportunity to speak to issues which concern the gathered religious community and translate these to their faith and tradition. Thus an entire community can be made more aware of issues of domestic violence and encouraged to respond in ways that will help the victims, batterers and their families who are experiencing violence. When a woman comes to you for help or you suspect there may be violence in the home, there are some specific things to keep in mind.
Problems associated with domestic violence are difficult to work through.
Usually patterns of abuse have existed for a long time, and unless you are a professionally trained counselor, you should not enter into a long-term counseling or therapy situation. You are in a unique position to relate and minister to all parties and these pastoral relationships need to be preserved. The response of clergy and laity to the religious crisis caused by domestic violence can be a great resource for victims. Ask the question. Women rarely come in and announce they have been battered.