Family and Domestic Violence

The Salvation Army recognises that violence within the family is the abuse of power, the more powerful member abusing the less powerful. It is a serious problem within the community and the Church, and occurs in every socio-economic group.

Violence within the family may take the form of:

physical assault
sexual violence
verbal abuse
psychological and emotional abuse
financial or economic abuse
social abuse

The Bible teaches that all people are equal in value to God and should be treated with respect and dignity. Every instance of domestic violence is contrary to this teaching and is unacceptable.*see verse bottom of page

We recognise that many people, including some within the Christian Church, are victims of violence within the family. As part of the Christian Church, we are motivated by the mission of Jesus " .... to bring good news to the poor .... to proclaim liberty to the captives .... to set free the oppressed ...." (Luke 4: 18 GNB).

All Salvationists should be ready to help those who are victims, either directly or through referral and support.

The Salvation Army is also concerned to ensure that the perpetrators of violence within the family acknowledge their wrongdoing, accept responsibility for it, receive help to deal with those factors which are resulting in violent behaviour, and receive support in working towards the development of new behaviours.

*"Get rid of all bitterness, passion and anger. No more shouting or insults, no more hateful feelings of any sort. Instead, be kind and tender-hearted to one another, and forgive one another, as God has forgiven you through Christ." Ephesians 4: 31,32. (G.N.B.)

Approved I.H.Q 11 July, 1995.