November 2010


Illinois Great Rivers Conference — The Current Local Church News


UMW panel discusses domestic violence issues


By Kandace McCoy Mt. Vernon Register-News


MT. VERNON — Understanding do-


mestic violence and its indicators was the focus of a panel discussion Sept. 9 at Mt. Vernon Wesley UMC. The discussion was part of the Kas-


kaskia River District United Methodist Women annual fall meeting as a way for churches to learn how to become an out- reach source for victims of domestic abuse. “I think people are quick to assume


that because people recant statements (of violence), then maybe it’s not as bad as they thought,” said Misty Lucas, a thera- pist with the United Methodist Children’s Home. “In reality, it’s much worse than they realize. We go by our own emotions, and if we see victims recant, then we think it’s not so bad. The reality is, the victims are really afraid for their life and forced to put on that mask.” Domestic violence is defined as “a


pattern of violent and coercive behavior exercised by one adult in an intimate rela- tionship over another,” according to infor- mation from the FaithTrust Institute. Do- mestic violence may consist of “repeated, severe beatings, or more subtle forms of abuse, including threats and control,” in- formation states. “It could be name calling or putting


someone down, rather than holding some- one by the throat,” Lucas clarified. “It’s not just punching or burning someone.” Other types of domestic violence in-


clude physical assault, sexual assault, psychological assault — such as isolation from family and friends, forced financial dependence and threats — and attacks against property and pets. Lucas, who was joined by Jefferson


County Sheriff Roger Mulch, explained to those attending the meeting there are many different indicators of domestic vio- lence.


“Abuse itself is always individual-


ized,” Lucas added. “Not all indicators are physical, such as bruises, burns or bite marks. It’s also emotional — depres- sion and low self-esteem. There may be a change in clothing to hide those physical marks or the victim quits grooming her- self. There’s not always physical evidence on the outside — it may be on the inside.” “When women get together, they like


to talk. A lot of times they share their ex- periences with each other,” Mulch joked, then added seriously, “If you have a friend who used to do that and stopped, that could be a key.” According to information provided by


the Kaskaskia River District, one in four women in the nation will experience do- mestic violence in their lifetime. One in four in the world will be abused and 50 percent of those will be abused by their partner or spouse. “It’s a circle of violence,” Mulch said.


“Men will even use the Bible for control — that a wife has to obey the husband — they literally take that seriously. ... Kids are the biggest victims. ... If you don’t do something to break this cycle it will end with someone dying.” Lucas suggested being supportive of


a person in a domestic violence situation and to “listen — don’t be judgmental.” “Be someone who will speak up with


the state’s attorney or in court. Be some- one willing to say, ‘This is wrong,’” she said.


(Reprinted with permission from the


Sept. 10 issue of the Mt. Vernon Register- News.)


Williamsville celebrates one year after devastating tornado


By Carole Piscatelli Williamsville UMC


WILLIAMSVILLE – An outdoor ecu-


menical service on Sept. 19 capped off a weekend of celebration in Williamsville, just 13 months after a devastating tornado leveled several buildings in town, includ- ing the Williamsville Christian Church. The Williamsville UMC joined with


the Christian Church in the service to thank the LORD for His provision dur- ing and after the tornado. Pastor Dave Beals, pastor of the Christian Church and Rev. Dick Piscatelli, pastor of Williams- ville UMC, led the service. The service was held under several large tents, which


included praises, thanks in testimony and prayer and the recognition of many work- ers that assisted with cleanup and rebuild- ing.


A meal was held on the boulevard


and all donations received after expenses are paid will go to the Midwest Mission Distribution Center who sent flood buck- ets and other supplies for the work to be done.


On Saturday as the Village celebrated


Williamsville Festival Days, the Village President Tom Yokley presented special Certificates of Appreciation to individu- als, law enforcement agencies and other organizations for their outstanding ser- vice.


Page 5


Keith Oye, of Mt. Vernon UMC, located northwest of Champaign in the Iroquois River District, serves as a beast of burden for his two sons, Caleb and Cory, introducing them to the CROP Walk at an early age. The Oye boys are followed by Keith’s brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jay and Tracy Bailen who push Caleb’s and Cory’s cousin, Owen, who, at 2 mos., was the youngest CROP Walker. The Oye family was among the 26 participants from Mt. Vernon that participated in the Champaign County CROP Walk Oct. 3.


Galesburg’s Unger spotlighted in Religious Leaders feature


(Editor’s note: Lisa Unger, who serves


as Church Council chair and certified lay speaker at Galesburg Faith UMC, was recently spotlighted in the Religion sec- tion of the Galesburg newspaper as part of a weekly Religious Leader 10 Ques- tions feature.)


What is your religious background? I grew up in the Bishop Hill UMC.


I attended regularly until I entered col- lege at which time I began only attending church for Christmas, Easter and special family events/occasions. I began attend- ing Galesburg Faith UMC in 1994 after a life-changing situation. What is one of your fondest memo-


ries of being part of this church or reli- gious community? Participation in several Bible studies


over the years including Disciple Bible Study and subsequently leading several


studies helped me build my relationship with God and fellow Christians. The con- firmation service for my sons was an im- mense joy for my husband and me. What role does religion play in your everyday life? I believe that we live out our religion


and faith as Christians each day through our actions. I try to be positive, kind and loving person. Throughout each day, I will say “flash” prayers to help me stay focused as well as alleviate worries and stresses that pop up. What is your favorite part of Scrip-


ture other sacred text? I Corinthians 16:13-14 states (para-


phrased) “Be on your guard, stand firm in your faith, be a woman of courage, be strong. Do everything in love.” This was my scripture passage from “The Week- end,” which I led a few years ago. I strive


See Unger on page 6 . . .


Photo courtesy of John Kraps


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