Cycles of domestic violence run rampant in communities around the world. Today, one in three women has endured violence at the hands of a partner or family member. And one in three girls will experience sexual abuse before her 18th birthday. These incidents tear apart families and individual lives, as victims often lose hope and live in fear of recurring acts of violence.

In response to this global epidemic, Bible Societies from around the world have joined forces to prevent future incidents of domestic violence and serve victims of abuse through Bible-based programs.

Opportunity:

Every year, millions of women and children fall victim to abuse and domestic violence. But in aftermath of this assault, victims don’t always know how to respond to their pain. They wrestle with shame and embarrassment and often refrain from reporting their assailant.

To find hope and experience healing, these victims must encounter the life-changing message of God’s Word. And church leaders need Bible-based training in how to advocate for domestic violence prevention in their communities.

Transformation:

To empower victims of domestic violence to find hope and healing in God’s Word, Bible Societies from around the world train church leaders to execute Scripture-based prevention programs. Through this training, leaders learn to help victims turn to Scripture for hope and healing, and they create and distribute resources to prevent domestic abuse.

This work is being carried out in communities across the globe, including the Caribbean, where more than 25 percent of homicides take place in the home. In partnership with American Bible Society’s financial partners, Bible Societies in the Caribbean host events, run school programs, air TV and radio programs and distribute books that communicate the need for domestic violence prevention. In total, Bible Societies in the Caribbean see an opportunity to reach more than 150,000 people through Bible-based prevention efforts.