Keeping the Faith: Guidance for Christian Women Facing Abuse

A compassionate pastoral guide showing Christian women how to confront domestic abuse, protect their families, and keep the faith.

Practical guide addresses issues of faith for battered women—an invaluable resource for victims of domestic violence and the crisis centers that counsel them.

Pastor Marie M. Fortune draws on years of pastoral counseling to clarify scriptural passages often misused to justify abuse. The volume answers urgent questions surrounding marital submission, forgiveness, and the priority of personal safety.

Crisis shelters and congregations gain practical guidance on safety planning, legal protections, and community advocacy. Through prayers, liturgies, and direct counsel, the handbook equips ministry leaders and families to confront violence with clarity.

• Pastoral Care: Practical counsel urges ministers to prioritize immediate safety, avoid ineffective couples counseling, and hold abusive partners accountable.
• Scriptural Guidance: Detailed question-and-answer chapters address passages in Ephesians and Corinthians frequently cited to mandate female submission.
• Actionable Strategies: Clear explanations break down the stages of the battering cycle and steps for seeking emergency shelter.
• Prayers and Meditations: A dedicated worship section offers devotional readings, poetry, and a complete Christmas Eve service designed for women enduring crisis.