The Dinah Project: a Handbook for Congregational Response to Sexual Violence

Black Issues Book Review, Sept-Oct, 2004 by Kathi R. Chavous

by Monica A. Coleman Pilgrim Press, April 2004 $23.00, ISBN 0-829-81587-2

How is God present in situations of abuse? Monica Coleman invites readers into a dialogue on the church's lack of response to a problem often-perceived of exclusively female: rape. This elementary presentation of the religious and spiritual effects of sexual violence is a much-needed challenge to the household of faith. Coleman skillfully uses a seldom-taught Old Testament narrative of the biblical character Dinah to point out the seriousness of the issue.

Coleman posits that the collective voice of the church must be raised to educate the community on the issue of sexual violence. Coleman outlines a plan, including ways to discuss sexual violence within the context of worship and to develop programs for the congregation. Coleman encourages a unique blend of sacred and secular philosophies for counseling, thereby underscoring the importance of understanding that body and spirit are not separate.

This is a must-read for clergy and spiritual counselors who desire to work effectively with survivors of sexual abuse and to move the church toward effectively responding to an often ignored issue.

Kathi R. Chavous is founder of Renee Ministries and associate pastor at Providence Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia.