Diocesan News
Mothers’ Union exhibition to highlight issue of domestic abuse
Derry and Raphoe Mothers’ Union is presenting a display entitled ‘Souls of our Shoes’ in Saint Columb’s Cathedral, Londonderry, from 25th to 28th November, and in Saint Eunan’s Cathedral, Raphoe, on 29th and 30th November. This coincides with the annual international ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender–based Violence’ campaign.
MU invite you to join them in faith and solidarity for all who suffer abuse of any kind within relationships. This thought–provoking and evocative exhibition is open to the public each day from 10am to 4pm (although the exhibition in Raphoe will also be open from 6–8pm on Thursday 29th November). The physical shoes in this exhibition are accompanied by comments from those who have walked away from and survived abuse. Other comments come from those who journey with them.
… with timely help, many can escape from their abusive situation, rebuild their confidence, and live in safety.
Phyllis Grothier, All–Ireland President of Mothers’ Union, says: “A particular focus of our work in Ireland is to raise awareness of the scourge of domestic abuse and its enormous effect on the lives of families both locally and globally. We recognize that one of the greatest difficulties around the issue of abuse is the lack of awareness of the impact it has on all who are affected – the abused, whether male or female, the children and the perpetrator. We recognize that domestic abuse is an issue for all sections of society, regardless of class or religion.
“Members of Mothers’ Union offer practical and prayerful support to families. We reach into our communities through support for refuges and care centres throughout the country, and by vigils organized in every Church of Ireland diocese during the ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence’ in November/December each year. Ultimately, we would like to rid our society of domestic abuse. In the meantime, we know that with timely help, many can escape from their abusive situation, rebuild their confidence, and live in safety.”
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Derry & Raphoe
Mr Paul McFadden
028 7126 2440
07525 826290
press@derryandraphoe.org