Coercive Relationships or Domestic Violence

The Marriage and Family Ministry Office Cares about you! 

We are further developing our resources and networks to assist individuals, families, clergy and parishes in dealing with this prevalent issue.  We understand clearly that Catholic households are not immune to the staggering statistics on violence in the home.  If you would like to host an awareness session please email the Director to discuss options or schedule.

Fear, Control, or Intimidation are not ok! 

Catholics are not immune and WE Can Make a Difference.

If you or someone you know is in immediate need of support please access the:

 National Domestic Violence Support Network.

Do you have a safety plan? or perhaps you need help starting a Safety Plan? Online Help is available.

Ohio Domestic Violence Network  The ODVN can be accessed for resources closer to home.

*For your safety, Please be sure to clear your browsing history.

What the Catholic Church Says

"As pastors of the Catholic Church in the United States, we state as clearly and strongly as we can that violence against women, inside or outside the home, is never justified.  Violence in any form--physical, sexual, psychological, or verbal-- is sinful...NO person is expected to stay in an abusive marriage.  Some abused women believe that church teaching on the permanence of marriage requires them to stay in an abusive relationship.  They may hesitate to seek a separation or divorce.  They may fear they cannot re-marry in the Church.  Violence and abuse, not divorce, break up a marriage."       

Quote taken from "When I call for Help" linked here:

When I call for Help                                                 Pope Francis' Message 

Catholics for Family Peace is an international network.  Our Director Terri Yohman has taken their 40 hour awareness course and can bring an educational talk to your parish. The network also offers parishes printable resources and clergy can find homily pointers.

Catholics for Family Peace

Bishop Brennan has a powerful message in the Homily linked below:

Homily Concerning Domestic Violence

Father Chuck Dahm, O.P. from Chicago spearheads a very successful website with thorough research and resources.

The ArchDiocese of Chicago Site

He offered a Webinar on his experience that can be helpful for lay people and clergy..

HERE

Click here to read a BLOG about Situational versus Characteralogical Intimate Partner Violence.

Click here to watch a Webinar for HEALTHY TEEN DATING