Secretariat for Parish Life
of the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland
Living the Faith
|
Secretariat for Parish Life of the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland
Living the Faith |
Domestic Violence: Must I forgive?
Abusers are quick to pressure victims to forgive and reconcile. This puts victims at risk again.
Offenders in treatment have made a powerful plea: “Do not forgive us so easily.” Forgiveness is not permission to do the same again. The moral response is to first stop coercive behavior; only then can trust be rebuilt.
For help call a Domestic Violence county hotline: Ashland: 419-774-5840; Cuyahoga: 216-631-2275; Geauga: 440-285-5665; Lake: 440-953-8255; Elyria: 440-323-3400; Lorain: 440-244-1853; Medina: 330-723-3900; Summit: 330-374-1111; Wayne: 330-264-9029.