Prayer for Victims of Domestic Violence

I attended mass at a new-to-me parish this morning, where I learned that Nov 25 was the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Regular blog readers may recall that I spent 3 months working with survivors of domestic violence last spring in Jersey City. My role was to accompany them as they sought orders of protection and restraining orders from the court system. The stories that I heard were heart breaking, and the strength of some of the women in the midst of the violence was inspiring. I think of the women I met often, and I pray for them.

At the end of mass today we prayed a beautiful prayer which I brought home to share with you. I don't know the source of the prayer, but I hope you will join me in praying for the elimination of violence against women.

God of Love and Creator of the universe, there are homes in our world where people live with fear of violence. For these families the home is not a safe place, but a place of danger and pain.

Give them the strength and wisdom they need to conquer arrogance, fear and division.

Give them the grace to solve the conflicts without violence and to establish relationships based on the spirit of love and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God of Mercy, many of us have ignored abused people. Open our hearts to the pain of all who suffer. Help us to reach them with love and understanding.

God of Hope, in you we trust opening our lives to your strength, healing and love. Teach us that peace only comes to our world through the peace we have in our hearts and homes.

Amen