October 18, 2020 - "October is Domestic Violence Month"

The month of October is domestic violence month, a time when we can share more openly about an epidemic of violence in our own families.  Indeed, domestic violence affects every parish and every community in our country.
 
Let’s set aside for the moment all the concern about Russia and North Korea as possible enemies. For many women, children and also men, the enemy is their cherished loved one - right in their own home.
 
One out of every four women and one out of every seven men have or are experiencing high levels of physical abuse in their own home and relationships: hitting, choking, being threatened or injured with knives, guns, being humiliated, insulted in their own homes. The children in these families suffer greatly too. They may also be abused, or suffer higher levels of anxiety, trauma as they try to protect themselves and their beloved parents or siblings from abuse.
 
The United States Catholic Conference of Bishops urges parishes, communities, to respond clearly and forthrightly writing: “Violence against women, inside or outside the home is never justified. Violence in any form – physical, sexual, psychological, or verbal is sinful: often it is a crime as well.”
 
What to do: Let us decide that together we will make our parish a place where we can talk about this, where we can support each other, where we can look for solutions and healing. The gospel brings hope to all of our relationships, including our intimate partners: husbands, wives, fiancés, young adults dating.
 
To anyone suffering today with violence at home… To anyone with friends or family suffering violence at home: This parish is here to help you. Come talk to us.  In addition, here are some resources that may be helpful to you:
 
Montgomery County - Abused Persons Program (240) 777-4673 Emergency shelter. Court advocates. Counseling for survivors and those who abuse.
 
Family Justice Center - (240) 773-0444 The Center provides counseling, intakes, protective orders.
 
Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Abuse (301) 315-8041 JCADA offers counseling, crisis services.
 
To those who use violence at home ……Help is available for you. Please get help before you lose your family. Change is possible particularly for people who have been abusive – if they seek professional counseling and make a dedicated effort to change.
 
Until next week,
 
Fr. John