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Program focusing on domestic violence

JANESVILLE — Decades ago, when the domestic violence movement was just starting, some church leaders saw the movement as a threat to the family.

Those ideas aren’t as strong any more.

More importantly, domestic violence advocates know that a pastor’s response to abuse is often a critical factor in a victim’s willingness to leave an abusive relationship—and, in some cases, their ability to survive.

From 8 a.m. to noon Wednesday, May 5, community domestic violence advocates are hosting “A Theological Response to Domestic Violence” at Blackhawk Technical College.

Speakers will include Rock County District Attorney David O’Leary and Sgt. Anne Brophy of the Janesville Police Department. Representatives from groups such as the Rock County Council on Aging, YWCA, Beloit Domestic Violence Center, the Merrill Community Center and the Rock County Victim Witness Office also will be present.

For domestic violence advocates, the event gives them the chance to meet the people who often are a significant part in the lives of victims: their pastors.

For spiritual leaders, the event gives them the chance to meet people who are as interested as they are in healthy families.

“In reality, we both do have a common stake in safe, healthy and respectful relationships,” said Kerri Parker, YWCA executive director and seminarian at the Chicago Theological Seminary. “Really, the church can be an important ally in this.”

At the event, speakers will talk about the dynamics of domestic violence, the damage to victims and families and the patterns of violence exhibited by abusers. Participants will learn about resources to help and heal victims of abuse.

Uniquely, for Parker, the event will bring “the pieces of her world together.”

Her theology—and her life’s work—have taught her that everyone, no matter what their beliefs, has value in the eyes of the creator.