IT OUGHT not be a shock to learn that domestic abuse takes place among Christians, too. The author, Sally Hope, a Christian survivor of domestic abuse, offers a workbook, guide, and encouragement for other survivors to begin to recover, through a personal, scriptural, and theological lens. Importantly, she emphasises that domestic abuse is experienced not only as physical violence, but also includes coercion, repeated criticism, and other forms of harm.
Throughout, damaging stereotypes are carefully and sensitively challenged, highlighting unconscious decisions and behaviour that may easily become detrimental to a woman’s self-worth. Mindful of her own experience, the author notes that this may be particularly pertinent for those from Evangelical churches where gender roles and certain approaches to interpreting scripture may enforce or even condone some kinds of potentially harmful behaviour within marriages.
Ten short chapters follow a helpful and approachable format. In an empathetic tone, the author seeks to help readers gradually to make sense of feelings of sadness, regret, self-remorse, and grief. Vignettes from other survivors are included. Certain Bible passages that may create stumbling blocks are examined in some depth.
In addition, there is plenty of blank space throughout, because this is intended to be a personalised guide for the reader to grapple with. There are checklists, pictures, and insightful questions to ponder. There are also “to-do” lists and simple tips to help women to make sense of how experiences of domestic abuse may have affected several parts of life, not least belief in God.
Helpful signposts to other resources, including websites, books, and organisations, are provided, resulting in a precious offering for women on the path to recovery.
The Revd Jennie Hogan is a psychotherapist and the author of This is My Body: A story of sickness and health (Canterbury Press, 2017).
No Visible Scars: An always hopeful guide to healing from domestic abuse as a Christian
Sally Hope
SPCK £12.99
(978-0-281-09106-5)
Church Times Bookshop £11.69
