” It is not my enemies who taunt me—I could bear that; it is not adversaries who deal insolently with me—I could hide from them. But it is you, my equal, my companion, my familiar friend, with whom I kept pleasant company; we walked in the house of God with the throng.”
– Psalm 55:12-14
This October, as we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we are called as a church “into a mission of love and compassion toward all peoples … to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God” (ELCA social policy resolution: “Violence Against Women,” 1995). Violence against women is a widespread problem both here in the U.S. and abroad. Around the world, one in three women experience physical, sexual or psychological abuse in their lifetime (UNIFEM report, 2003).
We come together as Lutherans to take action by denouncing and combating the beating, sexual abuse, raping and killingthat threaten the life and safety of women everywhere and by encouraging greater awareness among members of our church about all forms of violence that threaten the lives and safety of all women.
Here are some important ways you can join Lutherans this month as we learn, engage with one another, spread awareness, and speak out against domestic violence:
Learn and Engage
- Learn about the ELCA’s draft social message on gender-based violence and help shape this message by sending your feedback.
- Engage with Women of the ELCA to mobilize women to act boldly on their faith in Jesus Christ. Learn more about the work done by Women of the ELCA with the ELCA for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
- Find Lutheran service organizations (Lutheran Services in America members) throughout the country that work to address domestic violence and support those who suffer.
Spread Awareness
- Spread awareness in your congregation and community with ELCA Justice for Women Domestic Violence Awareness Month resources.
Take Action
- Take action to end violence against women around the world by telling Congress to protect women worldwide and pass the International Violence Against Women Act.
This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we remember those impacted by domestic violence and speak out to end all violence against women! Please join us as we seek to do justice and walk humbly with God.
ELCA Advocacy & Lutheran Office for World Community
ELCA Poverty & Justice Ministries
