We live in a broken and painful world – a world where the greatest and most challenging of these pains come as the direct result of what others have done. For those who have been hurt, justice seems elusive. We know it exists because of its absence, yet there seems no path by which we can reach it. We tend to focus all of our attention at those who do the hurting – trying to find consequences and cures that will keep them from hurting again. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t.

Meanwhile, those who have been hurt are left to their own devices – with few resources. Friends and family appear to quickly tire of their seemingly endless waves of emotions. Criminal justice officials ignore them. Health care professionals have few answers. Employers can’t accommodate them. The whole community seems to disappear and the person feels completely alone.

In the wake of these pains, victims often report an emotional/spiritual crisis. They may question the existence of God – what kind of God would let this happen? Some feel abandoned by God – what have I done wrong to deserve this? Others feel abandoned by a faith community – what’s wrong with me, what’s wrong with these people and why don’t they understand me? Others feel guilty that they cannot live up to the obligations they’ve been taught by their faith – how can I possible forgive or even start to get on with life? And still others question their own hearts – why am I so angry?

God does not intend for these pains to be borne alone.

Beginning October 5th, Manotick United Church will be offering a group for people struggling with pain and victimization. The group will provide a safe place for people to explore their tough questions, to talk about their struggles, to find words to express the hard edges of their pain and to be supported as they work towards some sense of healing and closure.