Hear my cry, o god, listen to my prayer: intersections between domestic violence and liturgy in the prayer of confession

Abstract

ABSTRACT Given the pervasive nature of domestic violence, it is safe to say that there are women present in every Sunday service who have suffered, or are currently suffering, domestic violence. While liturgy’s ‘limits’ must be acknowledged, it is surprising that domestic violence has not received greater attention by liturgical theologians, with few liturgical resources available for use outside of women-only groups. There is a clear and pressing need for trauma-informed liturgical resources for use in regular Sunday services. This article explores the intersection between domestic violence and liturgy with a focus on the prayer of confession. Prayers of confession are explored from several angles – including the historic and the non-textual elements – to examine the ways in which each may intersect with domestic violence. In each case, a different prayer of confession is used as a ‘lens’ to view how the trauma caused by domestic violence may be compounded or reinscribed by their use. Alternatives to traditional prayers of confession are then considered, with the conclusion drawn that one of the most suitable alternatives is a prayer of lament. Using the preceding discussion as its foundation, an example of an appropriate prayer of lament is then outlined.