Dear
Wisconsin Conference Colleagues,
From time to time, we come across courageous people who dare to tell their painful stories in order to "bring to light" the need for compassion and justice.
Last summer the Rev. Moira Finley, pastor of St. Johns UCC in Cecil and Trinity UCC in Shiocton, shared with me her horrific experience of sexual assault. Her journey of survival and healing gradually t
ransformed into a ministry of advocacy and support for victims of rape and sexual violence. Over the past several months she has been diligently crafting liturgical materials for "Break the Silence" Sunday, April 24, 2016. This was a collaborative process, as Moira invited several colleagues to share creative writings, music, stories and statistics, worship tips, sermon suggestions, and state/county contact information. For your convenience we're making this document in available both
Word and
PDF files.
This is an extraordinary compilation of resources
, and a gift for your ministry
, for which I am very grateful. I want to encourage you to observe "Break the Silence" Sunday
however you are willing. Dare yourself to address this difficult, but necessary, subject. Too many innocent victims remain isolated and left with shame, fear and despair because too often our society is silent on this issue. Imagine how liberating, how comforting, how empowering it would be if your community of faith stood in solidarity and support with those who have suffered such devastating abuse.
If you'd like to reach out to Moira with gratitude or questions, her email is
[email protected].
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