| Summary: | Domestic violence has a disproportionate impact on Black women. Compared to their counterparts, they experience the highest rates of homicide resulting from domestic violence. They are also less likely to seek assistance from mainstream services and often turn to the church and clergy for help. This exploratory study examined Black pastors' recognition and awareness of domestic violence and their responses to it. Themes that emerged included generational transmission of domestic violence, the importance of keeping up appearances in the Black community, and lack of pastoral education and training on domestic violence. Findings indicate pastors would welcome more information and education in order to better prevent and respond to domestic violence among their church members. The study highlights the significance of integrating Christian faith and social work as key partners in responding to domestic violence. In the Black church, pastors can play a vital spiritual and communal role for survivors, providing a Christian view on healing and justice. Pastors in this study described themselves as both spiritual shepherds and practical gatekeepers who are guided by biblical teachings, prayer, and scripture, which demonstrates how Christian theology influences and informs their approach to viewing and addressing domestic violence.
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