The Marriage and Family Ministry Office Cares about you!
Abuse and coercive control are real, and they happen not only in society at large, but also in our own communities and even in our pews. No one is called to live in fear. God’s plan for every person is dignity, safety, and love.
We are committed to building awareness, supporting survivors, and equipping clergy, families, and parishes to respond with compassion and courage. Our new resource on coercive control and domestic violence was created to shine light on a hidden but devastating reality and to offer hope and practical guidance.
Fear, control, or intimidation are never acceptable in any relationship.
Catholics are not immune, and together we can make a difference. If you would like to host an awareness session please email the Director to discuss options or schedule.
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.
The ODVN can be accessed for resources closer to home.
Ohio Domestic Violence Network
*For your safety, Please be sure to clear your browsing history.
To support survivors and equip our faith communities to respond with compassion and clarity, we’ve developed the Coercive Control Advocacy Handbook. This resource offers clear information about what coercive control is, why it matters, and how the Church calls us to respond.
It provides practical guidance for those experiencing harm, direction for those walking alongside someone in danger, and tools for clergy and parish leaders seeking to foster safe and informed communities. Above all, it serves as a reminder that no one is alone, and that safety, dignity, and hope are possible.
This archive contains past installments of our monthly newsletter segment on coercive control. Explore previous reflections and resources here.
"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.
We are well aware that these problems begin sometimes in teen relationships and can be especially concerning if the person is already a victim of child abuse. The Fourth R is a relationship curriculum that is free. Educators and parish leaders can use their curriculum to help youth learn about healthy relationships.
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.
Child & Youth Protection
Our promise to protect, our pledge to heal.
To report an abuse, please contact local law enforcement and:
Kathleen McComb, Victim Assistance Coordinator
Response Services – 216-334-2999
Catholic Diocese of Cleveland © 2025
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