Intimate partner violence in Forward in Faith Ministries and Pentecostal Protestant Church in Gaborone

Abstract

Intimate Partner Violence is currently a perpetual problem and a great concern for Botswana and the whole world. This epidemic has captured the attention of the government, law enforcement agencies, advocacy organisations, researchers and many more due to its magnitude. However, the voice of the church, particularly the Pentecostal church has not been heard pertaining to Intimate Partner Violence, although no one is immune to this problem. This study was carried out with the primary objective of investigating the occurrences of IPV in Pentecostal churches as well as the efforts made by Pentecostal churches in dealing with IPV cases. Qualitative methods were used including interviews, focus group discussions and literature review to collect data. Data analysis indicates prevalence of IPV amongst Pentecostal churches. The data also indicates that the church’s efforts in dealing with IPV are minimal and inadequate. The research recommends that pastors should be given skills and be adequately trained for counselling. It also recommends that church leaders should be trained to read the Bible for the liberation and dignity of all. The research observes that there is still a lot to be executed to address IPV cases in Pentecostal churches.