Taking It Seriously: A Faith Leader’s Guide to Domestic Violence

by Geneece Goertzen, Jay Kieve (foreword)

Domestic violence harms congregants and impacts our churches. Abuse affects millions across this nation and around the world including individuals in your own congregation. Informed by research, and verified by experience, this book provides practical guidance for pastors and lay leaders to faithfully address and respond to this crisis. The influence of pastoral care and congregational preparedness from the author’s seminary education and community-practice social work lens is clearly evident. The chapters are well-researched, trauma-conscious, and survivor informed. The supplemental, unique, and comprehensive glossary of domestic violence terms crafted specifically for faith-based ministry sets this book apart. Prevention and intervention guidelines, along with valuable recommendations for interacting with victims and survivors, is the instructive content needed to propel faith leaders to action and improve the way domestic violence is handled within churches.

197 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 22, 2024

Reviews

[Greer Rutt · Rating 5 out of 5]

in my own journey through watching abuse ravage my family, I realize how my churches across the years have failed me in ensuring the safety of the women in my family. but it also gives me hope as a leader in my faith community and as a future pastor and practically how I can make a difference as both survivor and pastor. This book makes me feel more equipped to handle such situations, and I look forward to continuing my education. Thank you!!!!

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Practical, helpful, and so important. Geneece brings personal experience and research together to a topic that everyone, especially pastors, need to think about as they look to make the world and a kinder and more just place.