Anglican Diocese of Bendigo|Family Violence

Family Violence

Love lives in the light.

‘God is light and in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him while we are walking in darkness, we lie and do not do what is true; 7 but if we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another’

1 John 1:5-7

We want all people to flourish. Family Violence is widespread across the Australian community, including in churches, and it is holding many back from flourishing. 

The Anglican Diocese of Bendigo is committed to doing our part to bring about healing, change and safety for all. 

Below are links to resources for individuals, small groups and parishes to understand more about this complex issue and be empowered to make meaningful change. Our resources and approach are informed by the 10 Commitments for Prevention and Response to Domestic and Family Violence in the Anglican church of Australia. Full details, including research into the prevalence of DFV in the Anglican community can be found here: Ten Commitments

Primary Prevention

Changing attitudes, behaviours and culture to prevent violence now and in the long-term. 

Raising awareness

Embedding awareness into liturgical life

  • Compilation of prayers and intercessions – Download
  • Compilation of liturgical resources – Download
  • DFV liturgy by Rev. Caroline Downs – Download
  • Sermon series from St Jude’s, Melbourne – Love Does No Harm – Download

Bible studies

  • Women in society – A study of Ruth – Download
  • Promoting healthy relationships – Jesus Set boundaries – Download

Further Reading materials

  • God’s Justice: Theology and Gender Based Violence – Anglican Communion resource – Download
  • Renew: A Guide for Christian Women Survivors of Domestic Abuse, by Anglicare  $15  Order Here  
  • DFV: How churches can respond – Anglican Communion resource – Download
  • Bystander action – Melbourne Anglican Diocese resource – Download

 

Early Intervention

Seeking to support the victims of violence within our churches as early as possible with pastoral care and referral to professional agencies. 

DFV awareness training for clergy and lay leaders:

  • DV Alert are funded two-day training workshops run locally. These are an excellent way to build connections within your local community. 
  • Free faith-based online course from Ridley College: Responding to Domestic Violence

Pastoral resources:

  • Renew: A Guide for Christian Women Survivors of Domestic Abuse, by Anglicare  $15  Order Here  

Referral to professional agencies:

  • Orange Door support and safety hubs for families are located around Victoria.
  • 1800 Respect is a national 24 hour counselling service. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse call/SMS 1800 737 732 or visit their website.

 

Responding

Responding to those experiencing violence with care and respect, aiding them to safety. 

Clergy and parishioners are best able to support victims in crisis by working together with professional agencies, for example Orange Door and Kooyoora. As per the Safe Church guidlines, working in a trusted team is paramount to ensuring everyone’s emotional and physical safety. 

Supporting local dfv organisations financially or with in-kind donations like care packages is also a valuable initiative.  

Contact: reception@bendigoanglican.org.au