counseling and care 

DOMESTIC ABUSE CARE

According to the World Health Organization, ONE woman in 3 will experience domestic abuse in her lifetime. Intimate partner violence is a systemic problem; a hidden epidemic in our churches, homes and workplaces. A woman can live in devastating oppression for years in her most intimate relationship without even realizing it.
 

Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain control over another intimate partner through physical, psychological, emotional or sexual coercion. It may include insults, veiled threats, withholding funds or spending large sums without consulting their partner, angry outbursts, breaking things, minimizing, blaming or other patterns of behavior meant to scare, confuse, or cause the victim guilt and shame; all with the intent to maintain power in the relationship and assume a position of superiority.

Leaving an abusive relationship is exceptionally challenging, both emotionally and practically. The process involves acknowledging the abuse that’s occurring and finding support to leave safely. Barriers include a lack of money, a lack of a place to go, and a lack of support from family due to social expectations or a religious viewpoint.

Recently, an elder-led team was formed at ZF to develop a holistic approach to confronting domestic abuse. As a church, we want to be a community that emulates the heart of our Heavenly Father by caring for and protecting the oppressed among us, giving a voice to those who have been silenced through oppression. By understanding the impacts and dynamics of abuse, we wish to reflect the character of God in his concern for the oppressed.

Zionsville Fellowship Domestic Abuse Policy

If you have questions and would like to talk confidentially, please reach out to a member of the Domestic Abuse response team.

• Deb Bissell (dbissell925@gmail.com)
• Gerry Bissell (gbissell925@gmail.com)
• Robin Black (robin.bea.black@gmail.com)
• Eric Bobbitt (ebobbitt@zionsvillefellowship.org)
• Hunter DeKoninck (hunterdeko@gmail.com)
• Lynn Eriks (lynneriks@icloud.com)
• Debbie McWhorter (debsmcwhorter@gmail.com)
• Taylor Sutton (tsutton@zionsvillefellowship.org)

PASTORAL VISITATION

Bob Ash coordinates efforts to visit the sick, lonely, downcast, or shut-in. A team of people regularly visit not only those who are membered at ZF but also other churches as well as the unchurched. If you know of someone who would find encouragement from being visited, please email Bob at bash@zionsvillefellowship.org.

POST ABORTION BIBLE STUDY

For anyone who has felt the shame and distance in relationships that is often associated with post-abortion, Zionsville Fellowship is offering the opportunity to share in a 12-week Bible study with others who can identify with you and help guide you through the process of healing. The book that is used is Forgiven and Set Free: A Post Abortion Bible Study for Women. Amazing transformation has taken place in women who have completed the study. It has brought hope, acceptance of forgiveness, purpose and a desire to serve in the body of Christ. If you are interested, please email Jody Applegate or call her at 317-695-9691.

PRAYER MINISTRY

Members of the Prayer Team invite you to join them on Friday's at 10AM in the Prayer and Gathering Room. If you would like prayer during the week, members of the Prayer Team are available to meet with you, either at ZF or in your home. Contact Cathie Lewis at zvillecathie@gmail.com or 317‐443‐4364.

PREMARITAL AND PRE-ENGAGEMENT COUNSELING

Counseling is available for those in our body who are engaged to be married or are planning to become engaged. If interested, please contact the church office at office@zionsvillefellowship.org or 317-873-4948.