This Spring, St. Margaret Mary’s Social Justice Ministry sponsored a presentation on domestic violence. Stacie Scheel from the Beaver County Women’s Shelter spoke to parishioners and guests explaining the different aspects of this troubling epidemic. Audience members were able to have questions answered by panelists who are all well versed in their fields. They included: Beaver County Assistant District Attorney Michael Yagercik, Moon Township Police Chief Leo McCarthy, our own Father James Garvey, psychologist/author Dr. Lynn Hawker, and Vanessa Taylor, a survivor of intimate partner violence.
The discussion proved to be very lively and interesting, especially when Ms Taylor told of her specific ordeal as a victim of repeated beatings and how she finally made the decision to get help.
Many people remained after the program to speak personally to panel members as well as enjoy the delicious refreshments. A special thanks to all who contributed to the evening’s success.
Shown here flanking the red silhouette from the Silent Witness Initiative lent to our Church from the National Council of Jewish Women are: (from l – r) Michael Yagercik, Vanessa Taylor, Mary Batyko (social justice ministry), Stacie Sheel, Jim Crable, the evening’s moderator, and Father Jim (not pictured here is Marietta DiCicco)
Dr. Lynn Hawker stands between Vanessa Taylor and Jim Crable
Brian Williamson, who taped and produced the program for MCA Channel 14 TV, is shown here with his wife, Renee’, and fellow social justice committee member Marcia Welsh.