‘May they find the strength’: Prayer service for domestic violence victims and survivors

Dressed in purple, the color of strength and domestic violence awareness, people sat in the pews at St. James Catholic Church Thursday to pray.

“Oftentimes, people that are survivors have been told over and over by their abuser that they aren’t worth anything and that they can’t do anything on their own. And it is so important to make sure that they understand that they can,” Director of Domestic Violence Services Heidi Smith said.

Smith has been with Catholic Charities for a while now. She said she’s seen people at their lowest point, and she helps build them back up.

“There’s many times where people have come into our shelter and have literally just said, I can finally breathe. I’m finally safe,” Smith said.

Since January of 2020, Catholic Charities has provided more than 7,000 nights of safety to survivors and victims and fielded nearly 1,800 calls from its 24/7 crisis hotline.

“That light is blocked, not because they choose that, someone else has chosen to cover that up,” the Rev. Mike Eckley said.

Eckley led the service, praying for the healing of those victims and survivors they’ve given shelter, support and even clothing.

“They feel like there’s no other options; they feel hopeless,” Eckley said.

But he wants you to know there is hope.

“May they find the strength to free themselves from the violence and leave in peace,” Eckley said.

Catholic Charities wants you to know there is help. If you or a loved one are experiencing domestic violence, call their 24/7 crisis line at 402-558-5700.

Story Courtesy of KETV: https://www.ketv.com/article/may-they-find-the-strength-prayer-service-for-domestic-violence-victims-and-survivors/38031090