With the increase of domestic violence, a local group is doing its part by bringing awareness to the community and explain the effect it has on our local area. Faith in Violence-Free Families: Building Partnerships for Change held it’s first educational seminar, “Love Never Fails,” on Saturday, March 14, 2009 at Family Community Church. Representatives from a number of local, faith-based organizations gathered to learn how domestic violence is prevalent within our own community.
After receiving a federal grant in December of 2008, Pastor Juanita Mason of the Antelope Upper Room Ministry, joined forces with other local churches, WEAVE and Sacramento’s Healthy Marriage Project to bring church leaders together to educate and encourage them to help those who have become victims of domestic violence. The statistics show that one in four women will experience domestic violence, either themselves or through someone they know. Knowing this information, the warning signs, and how to help those victims becomes crucial.
A special “thank you” guest speaker, Gayle Guest-Brown, from the Batter, Bruise to Blessed organization from New Testament Baptist Church. Gayle provided excellent tools to educate men and women, recognize signs of domestic violence, and ways to overcome.
There are a number of ways to get involved in helping support healthy relationships and to stand with organizations that have shown their support. Pastor Mason and her team of volunteers are willing to come join with you and your organization to help educate others on this endeavor. “Love Never Fails” is looking for those that will help train others, provide a “safe environment” for those in need of a safe place to go in the event of a violent situation, and have referral resources available. Organizations that provide pre-marital counseling are encouraged to provide information to couples about healthy relationships.
For more information and to get involved contact Pastor Juanita Mason at (916) 912-5111.