A Place of Healing – A Voice of Hope.
Since Lydia’s House first opened its doors, faith communities have played an integral role in our life and ministry. Faith communities provide donations, volunteers and meals, and support the mission and ministry of Lydia’s House. Faith groups also play an important role to those who are affected by domestic violence, because many women who have been abused identify with a particular faith tradition or belong to a religious congregation.
This means churches, synagogues, mosques and other gathering places have the opportunity to address domestic violence from the perspective of their faith tradition. Misinterpretation of sacred texts and collusion with abusers may be discussed in the context of worship or the community at-large. Faith communities can also take a stand against domestic violence — and show their support for those who have been abused. To learn more about how your faith group can support Lydia’s House, please call (314) 771-4411 or email development@lydiashouse.org.
Make an Instant Impact.
Consider making a donation or collecting an offering from your congregation for Lydia’s House. Your tax-deductible donation helps us provide safety for women and children in need.
How Your Faith Community Can Help
Worship:
- During Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, plan a worship service that focuses on the issue of domestic violence, acknowledging the pain caused by abuse while also creating a space for healing.
- Incorporate liturgical resources in worship on a regular basis that raise awareness of domestic violence. See the section below for books, prayers and other reflections.
Education:
- Create educational opportunities for your community to learn more about domestic violence and its impact on women and children.
- Submit a request for a Lydia’s House staff member or volunteer to speak during worship or a fellowship gathering.
Creating a Safe Space:
- Make sure posters and other informational materials are visibly placed that communicate your faith community’s stance against domestic violence.
- Raise awareness of language and texts used in worship and everyday life, and how this language may be heard by survivors of abuse.
- Place informational cards in women’s restrooms that contain emergency domestic violence shelter and hotline numbers.
Outreach & Mission:
- Support a local shelter or housing program for abused women and children, such as Lydia’s House. Consider the following ideas:
- Host a collection, special offering or other fundraiser benefitting Lydia’s House.
- Invite your community to collect items from our wish list.
- Put together a volunteer group to help with projects at Lydia’s House.
Resources for Faith Communities
Books
Prayers & Worship Resources
Upcoming Events
Lydia's House
