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BEYOND VIOLENCE

Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) is one of the greatest challenges we face in Australia, with one woman a week killed by a former husband or partner.

This Assembly resource is a starting point to help members of our congregations and our communities begin a time of talanoa (conversation) with their people to raise awareness, understand what DFV is and begin to educate themselves in how they can respond to and support survivors.

UCA President Dr Deidre Palmer and Assembly National Consultant Rev Charissa Suli introduce the resource in this video message. 

This resource has been developed in response to the 15th Assembly resolution on Domestic and Family Violence which reaffirmed our commitment to addressing DFV. There are five sections in this handbook, representing five ways you can use this handbook.

  • Theological Reflection
  • Be Informed
  • Pastoral Care
  • Worship
  • Take Action

DOWNLOAD THE RESOURCE BY CLICKING THE IMAGE BELOW

TAKE ACTION

One of 11 actions named in the resource is to download the “UCA Says No to Violence” Poster.

Place a “Say NO to DFV” Poster in a prominent place where you gather with your congregation, agency, school or small group.

Write in the contact person so that members of
your group will know who they can contact in your organisation if they need to speak to someone about DFV.  CLICK THE POSTER TO DOWNLOAD 

DFV WORKSHOP

You may like to organise domestic violence training for pastors, staff, ministry leaders, and volunteers on how to effectively address domestic violence issues. The Assembly has developed a workshop resource to: 

  • Raise awareness and encourage discussion around DFV and its effects on people living in situations of violence.
  •  Promote advocacy in the public space in addressing DFV.
  •  Encourage reflection on the Biblical and theological foundations that intersect with DFV.
  • Encouraging conversation on the foundations and practice of respectful, mutual and equal relationships.
  •  Affirm and strengthen our commitment as the Uniting Church to shaping communities and families, where children are loved and feel safe in their own homes.

For more information about this workshop email aru@nat.uca.org.au