Public statement - Domestic violence

Text of the Archbishop's statement to the Sydney Morning Herald, March 3rd, 2015 

I was distressed to read the personal story in Monday's Herald ("Abuse inside Christian marriages", March 2, 2015). As a church leader I am particularly appalled that domestic violence occurs in our churches, even more so that it might be tolerated. This has no place in any Christian church and should never be swept aside or excused.

The Anglican Diocese of Sydney, through its bishops, its synod and its professional standards unit, has sought to raise awareness of domestic violence in a number of forums. We also provide specific education on the issue in our theological colleges and in the training and development of our ministers. Yet, despite these efforts, it still occurs.

Domestic violence has many faces, from the demeaning treatment of a wife or child, to the social exclusion of a person from the family, to verbal abuse, physical abuse and sexual assault. I say to all members of our churches that each and everyone of these aspects of domestic abuse reflects conduct not befitting a Christian nor indeed any person in our society.

Dr Glenn Davies Archbishop of Sydney