Home > Online Magazine > Online Magazine: Edition 81 - Spring (Sep-Nov) 2024

Online Magazine: Edition 81

Spring (Sep-Nov) 2024

Welcome to the Eighty-first Edition of the Online Magazine of the Thornleigh Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Articles

Editorial - A Glimpse Into The Future Of Domestic Violence

Welcome to the Spring edition of our online magazine.

Do you remember TV shows like "Quantum Leap" (1980/90's) or "Flash Forward" (2009+) which dabble in the concept of being able to catch glimpses of the future? Our heroes are thus given the opportunity, or obligation, of taking avoidance action in their current timeline, in order to avoid various oncoming catastrophes.

If it were possible, is this something that you would like to be able to do? Would you feel the pressure of the obligation of future knowledge, or would you rise to the challenge of making a difference?

I would like to put these thoughts into the context of recent legislative reform, for most states in Australia, in the domestic violence arena. If you could stop someone from being killed by an abusive partner, would you? How would having advance warning of the timing when that lethal abuse might happen influence your behaviour?

Research has shown that women who have been strangled by an abusive partner are 7 to 8 times more likely to be killed or seriously injured by that partner within the following weeks or months. Non-fatal strangulation is a predictive pattern of future behaviour and a precursor to murder. [1] Non-fatal strangulation has been referred to as "the last warning shot" before more serious damage is done. [2]

In response to advocacy and as a result of these research findings, legislation has been and is being debated in most states of Australia, to create two new offences to better protect victim-survivors. Firstly, an offence of intentional non-fatal strangulation, which does not require proof of injury (max penalty 5 year). A second more serious offence of non-fatal strangulation where a perpetrator intentionally causes injury, (max penalty 10 years). [3]

Some may ask why we need there to be new standalone legislation (old common assault vs new non-fatal strangulation)?

The new legislation brings with it a heightened awareness of the issue.
Old penalties minimise the seriousness of the issue.
The new legislation is more about protecting the victim from future serious injury than it is about increased punishment for the perpetrator.
Increased sentencing time can buy the victim more time to settle into their changed family circumstances without interference.

To take action in these circumstances is not about: revenge; unforgiveness; or broken marriage vows; but is all about protection of the vulnerable from further injury or death. The Bible is full of passages that represent our responsibilities for the vulnerable. Here are but a few examples.

"Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. … " (Isaiah 1:17, NIV)
"Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked" (Psalm 82:3-4 NIV)

So, going back to the original questions. Research has given us a glimpse into the future, following non-fatal strangulation by a partner in a domestic violence situation. The directional path and even likely timing of serious injury and death has been shown to us. If we can see this future coming, for either ourselves, family members or our friends, what would we do to stop it?

If anything in this article gives rise to concerns for you or those close to you contact: 1800 Respect, 1800 737 732

[1] https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/radionational-drive/non-fatal-strangulation-stand-alone-offence-/102992136

[2] https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/lawreport/10712952

[3] https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/non-fatal-strangulation-become-stand-alone-offence

In this Edition

Pastor's Piece - Share in the Warmth, Joy and Hope of our Creator God - Pr Andy

In this edition Pr Andy takes us on a journey from winter to spring, reminding us of the warmth, joy and hope of our Creator.

The Power of Love - Stenoy (Steve) Stephenson

Steve investigates what awesome power for social transformation there is when love and power are joined together.

Standing Up To Domestic Violence - Brianna Watson (Writing for Sings of the Times)

In line with our editorial topic, Brianna Waston, writing for the Sings of the Times, looks at the dynamics of family violence and encourages us to be aware of early indicators.

Seventh-day Adventist Identity (Deed or Creed) - Dr. Rick Ferret

Dr. Ferret, drawing from his sociological and theological research from his time at Avondale University, takes us on a journey of SDA identity.

Book Review - Children of the Himalayas. (Author - Diane Bell)

Our book reviewer shares with us the story of Diane Bells experience of being called from normal walks of life and being equipped by God to serve the children of the Himalayas.

Vegetarian and Vegan Recipes - Erica Green

Our recipe column for this edition takes us through Italy and France

Ricotta and Spinach Cannelloni (Vegetarian)
Pea and Mint Pesto (Vegan)
Green Goodness Veggie Soup with Pistou (Vegan)
Pecan Pate (Vegan)

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