About the books
CHILD, ARISE!
THE COURAGE TO STAND
A SPIRITUAL HANDBOOK FOR SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE
This practical handbook invites the reader to embark on a journey of healing by taking a guided walk through the Scriptures where they will learn to listen to their personal story narrated by a loving God.
As this transforming journey unfolds, the reader will be amazed as they discover the presence of an all-loving and compassionate God who walks with them and extends a healing hand to them, empowering them to work through the effects and issues of sexual abuse. It is a practical handbook that also offers insight to spiritual and pastoral care workers accompanying survivors of sexual abuse, family and friends and other supporters.
Interwoven within the scriptural reflections is the story of the author’s own journey from trauma to healing. It is a powerful and moving narrative that serves as a model for other survivors.
Distinctive features of this book
The author writes as a survivor of abuse speaking to other survivors of abuse (particularly sexual abuse).
It is a practical handbook that invites the reader to participate by walking their own spiritual journey.
It acknowledges the deep spiritual wounds of survivors of abuse by dealing with the big existential questions that arise.
It deals with the distorted image of God that victims often cannot escape.
Even those who read the book and have not have been abused can walk this spiritual journey.
While focusing on the spiritual, it is also integrates the very real practical issues faced by survivors of abuse and those who support them.
It is written in a gentle and non-imposing manner.
It is a handbook that gently introduces the readers to a technique and step-by step-guide on how to encounter and listen to God through the Scriptures and how to experience the transforming power of Scripture at work in their life.
It reveals how holistic healing can be achieved through spirituality and shows how God works through the Scriptures and has the power to transform and integrate the physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual effects of abuse.
It is a practical handbook that offers insight to spiritual and pastoral care workers accompanying survivors of sexual abuse and the technique of approaching the Scriptures may be used as a guide for survivor support groups attempting to respond to survivor’s spiritual needs.
COME FORWARD!
BOLD ENOUGH TO HEAL
A SPIRITUAL HANDBOOK FOR SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE USING SCRIPTURE, VISUALISATION AND ART THERAPY
Jane's "Spiritual Handbook" sheds wonderful and helpful light on an important element of both the damage suffered and, at least for some, the path towards managing life better for those who have suffered church-related sexual abuse.
The spiritual cost for victims / survivors of sexual abuse is rarely if ever addressed by Church protocols, yet it remains for many an essential component in leading a meaningful life. Jane's book provides not only wise insight but a practical strategy for repairing the damage done by church-related abuse and rebuilding the lives of those who have suffered so tragically.
Fr Kevin Dillon AM Lifeboat Geelong Foundation.
Knowing what it is to like to have one's self-worth stolen by a cleric who abused her, Jane N Dowling finds in the manifold beauty and boldness of Scripture a journey of healing that is grounded in God's unending love. With courage and clarity she shared her story on The Spirit of Things on ABC RN, reaching thousands of people who responded with gratitude. Now with her characteristic sensitivity an a practical method, including art therapy, she makes that journey available to everyone who has doubted themselves and their faith.
Dr Rachel Kohn | Produced and presented The Spirit of Things on ABC RN, 1997-2018
Jane N Dowling is the author of the award winning book Child Arise!
