The Dinah Project: A Handbook for Congregational Response to Sexual Violence (Book)
Monica A. Coleman, Author.  Cleveland, OH: Pilgrim Press, 2004.

Sexual violence may be front page news, but religious communities often find it painfully difficult to discuss the issue —let alone engage themselves in healing ministries for those whose lives have been affected by sexual violence. Monica Coleman, herself a survivor of rape, explores briefly the reasons for this. However, the main focus of her book is practical advice on how to get congregations not only talking about, but also doing something about, sexual violence.

Coleman has developed—by trial and error—a ministry named "The Dinah Project" after the biblical Dinah of Genesis 34. In this slim volume she gives the reader some basic information about the many forms of sexual violence and the trauma experienced by its multiple victims (including those who know and love all the individuals involved in each situation). She offers advice on raising awareness of these matters within a congregation and its surrounding community—including sample worship services and Bible studies. She stresses the need to link locally with other agencies and advocates. She describes the formation of a support group for victims and the many ways volunteers can support such a program.

With a bibliography of books, organizations, and Web resources, this book is an excellent primer for a pastor, layperson, or congregation with a desire to begin to address the reality of sexual violence.

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See also these resources:

Churches Offering Hope to Sexual Violence Victims, Building on The Dinah Project (Web Resource)
Congregations struggle with helping to prevent sexual violence and care for those affected by sexual trauma. In this interview, Monica Coleman explores advocating for victims while serving the pastoral needs of abusers and faith communities.

Counseling Survivors of Traumatic Events: A Handbook for Pastors and Other Helping Professionals (Book)
Andrew Weaver, Laura T. Flannelly, John D. Preston, Authors.  Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 2003.
This resource offers case studies and guidelines that will be useful for any pastoral leader who must help the survivor of a traumatic incident answer the questions, "why did this happen?" and "how can I put my life together again?"