One in four Christian women will experience domestic abuse, and for these women their experience can be incredibly challenging to their faith. Survivors report that they do not feel their churches are adequately equipped to support them, but that secular domestic abuse services do not understand their faith. In No Visible Scars, author Sally Hope draws on her ten years of work supporting survivors and her own experiences of abuse, to help women undertake their own journey of healing. The book explores domestic abuse and the unique challenges that Christian women face. Through research, personal stories and opportunities to journal, No Visible Scars seeks to help survivors find answers to commonly asked questions such as 'Where is God in all this?' and face the thorny theological concepts of divorce, submission and gender roles. Survivors will be helped to recognise that God is firmly on the side of the abused, He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds.
No Visible Scars is based on the 'Always Hopeful' recovery programme for groups of Christian women who have experienced domestic abuse. Many survivors find attending a recovery group intimidating and would prefer to read a book in their own time; others don't have access to the programme. Through this book, survivors can learn more about their experiences and unpick some of the faith lies they may have acquired as a result.
"'"It doesn't happen here" is a familiar phrase that you may have heard in church, and yet research tells us it does. Writing from a Christian faith-based perspective Sally provides bite-sized information about abuse and how to move forward. It also provides space for reflection and action. This is a practical book that enables both survivors of abuse and their friends and family to work through w
Mandy Marshall, Co-Founder of Restored and Director for Gender Justice - Anglican Alliance
"'I'm so delighted that Sally has created this journal out of her brilliant Always Hopeful course. This journal will not only illuminate the path to recovery from domestic abuse, but help women discover they have the strength to walk it.'"
Bekah Legg, CEO, Restored
"'Clearly and sensitively written, this book is a trauma informed and pastorally sensitive workbook for Christian women experiencing domestic abuse. Combining sound practical advice with gentle biblical application, it will help to equip and resource survivors and those seeking to help them.'"
Helen Paynter, Director of the Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence and author of Th
