Pastors’ input sought for research project

Pastors are being invited to share their insights into how religious beliefs and practices have been misused in the perpetration of violence, as part of a research project initiated by the LCANZ.

The research, commissioned by the church’s Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Campaign task force and supported by Bishop Paul Smith, involves interviewing and surveying pastors about their understanding of domestic violence and experiences as they ministered to men who have used violence. It also involves interviewing and surveying men who have used violence to understand their recovery journey and beliefs.

It is hoped that the research’s outcomes will support the development of more effective policies and practices to prevent domestic violence, both inside and outside of church settings.

Bishop Paul said, ‘Anyone who has been with a victim/survivor of domestic violence knows deeply that we cannot ignore this great wickedness at work in our society, in our congregations, and even in many of our own families.

‘Our Lord has called his people to be on guard against all kinds of evil and wrongdoing. He has taught us to pray, “Deliver us from evil”. Hence, as people of the LCANZ, as God’s people seeking to bring God’s love to life in our society, I commend to you this project.’

The research is being led by Professor Sarah Wendt, at Flinders University, in partnership with Professor Wendy Mayer at Australian Lutheran College.

The confidential online survey for pastors can be accessed at:
https://qualtrics.flinders.edu.au/jfe/form/SV_01CpsPDf4wveJ9Q

A separate online survey for men who have previously used violence against their partners is at: https://qualtrics.flinders.edu.au/jfe/form/SV_79QdDy5Bium80fk

For more information, contact Professor Sarah Wendt on 08 8201 3978 or at sarah.wendt@flinders.edu.au

Phone 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or MensLine (1300 789 978) for free, 24-hour domestic violence counselling.