by Michael Neely | Aug 1, 2026 | Domestic Violence
For years I thought I was an anomaly (a pastor and a male survivor of a 15-year domestic violence marriage). I had no idea how much abuse was hiding in the shadows of the church and the faith community. It was always there but abuse thrives and hides in the darkness...
by Michael Neely | Aug 1, 2026 | Domestic Violence
On average, a DV survivor leaves 7 times before they leave for good. Seven times. That number used to frustrate people who didn’t understand. Now I see it differently. Each time someone leaves, they’re building courage. Testing the waters. Learning what...
by Michael Neely | Aug 1, 2026 | Domestic Violence
The silence we call “holy” might be the thing keeping us stuck. In faith communities, there’s an unspoken rule: certain struggles stay private. We smile on Sunday. We say “I’m blessed” when we’re barely holding on. We’ve...
by Michael Neely | Mar 1, 2024 | Domestic Violence
My wedding was not a shotgun wedding, and I said those wedding vows of my own free will. The words were ringing in my ears: What God has joined together, let no man put asunder. I promise to love her until death do us apart. Love is a very complex emotion sometimes....
by Michael Neely | Mar 1, 2024 | Domestic Violence
At home that Sunday evening, she did apologize, but her apology didn’t match the offense. It’s one thing to say I’m sorry for raising my voice at you and asking for forgiveness. However, it’s a whole other ballgame to apologize for a physical assault and expect...
