Caroline shares her life story on Halfway There’s podcast. She talks about experiencing abuse, not being supported by the church, and bringing beauty from ashes.
Submission – What the Bible Really Says
Submission - What the Bible Really Says Biblical Submission. This is a difficult topic. Many abusive spouses and churches take what God meant for good and twist it into something that keeps women in bondage to their abusive spouses. So, what does the Bible really say?...
Biblical Grounds for Divorce
Abuse victims in the church are often kept in bondage because they are told that abuse is not "biblical grounds for divorce." Leslie Vernick disagrees, (and so do I). In a recent blog, Leslie answered the question, "What are biblical grounds for divorce when there is...
What Does the Bible Say About Domestic Violence?
There is much confusion about what the Bible says about domestic violence, marriage and divorce. The Bible was not meant to be read out of context. Many abused spouses are told that "God hates divorce" and that "the only biblical grounds for divorce are infidelity and...
Let Abusers Reap What They Sow
I recently saw a blog outlining a Pastor's response to an abuse victim's request for help. His response infuriated me! I am sure my blood pressure went up about 20 points. Today I would like to share the original request for help, the pastor's response, and my...
Why Do People Often Take the Side of the Abuser?
I can't tell you how many abuse victims I've spoken to where this happens. The victim's family, friends or church take the side of the abuser in a separation, rather than standing by the victim. This doesn't make logical sense. Why would a person's own family turn...
A Path to Hope by Rose Saad
I would like to introduce you to my new friend, author Rose Saad. She was visiting my city a few weeks ago, and took time out to meet me at a coffee shop. It was like meeting an old (new) friend. We clicked immediately. Rose lives in Maryland, loves photography, and...
Announcing: DV Guide for Churches
In my last blog, I shared what happened to me when I asked my church for help when I was being abused. Then I asked the question, "Have you ever sought help from your church for domestic violence? If so, what happened?" I got many responses, all of which made me sad....
Seeking Help from the Church While Being Abused
Victims of domestic violence often turn to their churches for help. Many church leaders are not educated in domestic violence and unwittingly aid the abuser instead of the victim. My Experience Many years ago, I was an abuse victim. I became afraid of my...
Honor DVAM by Educating Your Church
This is Part 3 of my series on how to honor Domestic Violence Awareness Month. One great way to further domestic violence awareness is in your church, with your pastor and elders (lay leaders of the church). Most people have very little education about domestic...