Catholic Charities, parishes help those affected by domestic violence

Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, is defined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a serious, preventable public health problem that affects millions of Americans. It refers to the physical, sexual or psychological harm by a current or former partner or spouse, and does include teen dating relationships.
 
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and for more than two years, Catholic Charities and the archdiocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life Ministry have been working with community partners to raise awareness and provide support to those struggling with this issue.
 
“People in the pews are not immune to this problem. Our goal is to establish domestic violence ministries in every parish to build awareness, build knowledge how to refer someone to services, and provide prevention to stop family violence which effects everyone in the family,” said Becky VanPool, director of parish engagement for Catholic Charities.
 
Domestic abuse and violence refers to a pattern of violent and coercive behavior exercised by one adult in an intimate relationship over another. One in four women and one in seven men are victims of domestic violence.
 
“Domestic violence situations also have serious negative psychological impacts on children and their development, often causing trauma,” said Lisa Carrasco, associate director of the Office of Marriage and Family Life Ministry.
 
Staff members from Catholic Charities and the Office of Family Life Ministry have made presentations at parishes on how people can help those affected by domestic violence. There is an initial one-hour presentation. There also is a half-day training put on by community partners that is more comprehensive.  
 
To learn more, contact Becky VanPool at (405) 523-3000, Ext. 245, or [email protected].