Meeting the challenges of domestic violence

The existence of domestic violence seems to be universal. Culturally it may be dealt with differently however there are some basics for helping women to be restored.  Both shelters were started by a female UMC pastor. Both shelters provide a place to live within a Christian community.  An important component in the healing ministry  with the victims of domestic violence is the "family" life developed at the shelters within the context of Christian love.  Is this not a universal approach for dealing with moving through and developing a new life without abuse?   

The Nest of Love Shelter opened in 2000 for any woman who calls the hotline or is referred by community social service agencies.  The Korean WSCS owns the building and provides support for the program while the government provides some financial support for the social services offered to the residents.  Six months is the length of time women may live there...one of the government regulations.  WSCS members volunteer in the maintenance of the facility and community businesses are invited to help with major projects of keeping the older facility livable.

We gathered to hear about the beginning of Nest Of Love Shelter by Rev. Chung.   We were not allowed to take many
photos at this shelter.  When the worship service began, residents and children joined us. 

The Saenal Shelter opened in 1999 and  is solely a ministry of Rev. In Hae Kang. There is a main building for the shelter and it has been expanded by adding a room in the close proximity of the main facility.   The residents contribute a portion of their income to offset the costs of providing room and board.  They have no government support, thus the length of stay for the residents is not defined in terms of time. A woman and her children may leave the facility whenever she feels she is ready to live on her own.  Both shelters offer a full range of services from counseling to legal advise, art and music therapy in addition to the security of a loving family atmosphere.  

Just check out this wonderful table that had been prepared for us. 

New friends and Bonnie 

Here is the kitchen that produced the banquet!!!  It takes many dishes to serve any Korean meal.   They washed dishes
forever!!!   Thanks to all who give back.   

   

Several of the women at the Saenal Shelter wanted a photo taken with us. The young woman was using a cell phone and introduced herself in English so she is now an email pal with Bonnie. They were also thrilled we wanted a photo that shows the size of the kitchen is no indication of the quality of food. These two shelters prepared better food than any of the good restaurants. A create your own bibimbop was a great lunch...notice all those wonderful ingredients to choose from to be arranged on top of a bowl of rice. Add a little red pepper sauce and you are set for a nutritious meal. Our dinner at Saenal was great Korean fare with an "American" touch of wonderful bread from the generous bakery in addition to all the side dishes. Keep in mind this was just part of our day, we also participated in worship at ChungDong UMC at 2. More on ChungDong a bit later.