In her characteristic direct and forthright style, Marie Fortune tells the shocking true story of a scandal that took place in a typical church in an average city. It should never have occurred, but its telling helped to focus the national spotlight on a serious problem that is more pervasive than any of us would like to believe. The author founded and directs the Center for the Prevention of Sexual and Domestic Violence, Seattle, Washington.

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

"You are a Christian woman, a woman of faith who has been abused by a member of your family...You may feel abandoned by your church; you may feel abandoned by God. Now more than ever you need your faith and the support of the community of faith to be with you through this crisis. [This book] is written to...remind you that God is present to you even now and that there are Christians who do understand your pain, your fear, and your doubt. It is written so that we in the Christian community can keep the faith with you during this time of your life. We will not turn away from you; we will not abandon you. We will walk with you as you seek to end the abuse in your life." -- from the Introduction

Powerful insights from ministers, theologians, activists, leaders, artists and liturgists who are shaping the future.

"Christianity has been a source of the oppression of women, as well as a resource for unleashing women's full humanity. Feminist analysis and practice have recognized this. Feminist Christianity is reshaping religious institutions and religious life in more holistic, inclusive, and justice-focused ways." from the Introduction

Feminism has brought many changes to Christian religious practice. From inclusive language and imagery about the Divine to an increase in the number of women ministers, Christian worship will never be the same. Yet, even now, there is a lack of substantive structural change in many churches and complacency within denominations.

The contributors to this book are the thought leaders who are shaping, and being shaped by, the emerging directions of feminist Christianity. They speak from across the denominational spectrum, and from the many diverse groups that make up the Christian community as it finds its place in a religiously pluralistic world. Taken together, their voices offer a starting point for building new models of religious life and worship.

Topics covered include feminist: Theological Visions Scriptural Insights Ethical Agendas Liturgical and Artistic Frontiers Ministerial Challenges"