Can faith be strengthened after rape?

[gstivers]

I have a good friend whose 16-year-old daughter was raped by someone using a date-rape drug. What resources, especially Bible verses, can I share with him to help encourage him to grow in his and his family’s faith from this horrific experience? They have limited faith, and are questioning why God would allow this to happen. I know that God will use this to strengthen their faith, so I want to share any Catholic guidance that would help aid in the process.

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

I’m very sorry to hear of the abuse your friend’s daughter suffered and will keep her and her family in prayer. You might wish to share with them the story of St. Maria Goretti, a young girl who found the grace and the courage to forgive her attacker and to pray for his conversion. I also recommend the question-and-answer at the link below.

Recommended reading:

Why does God allow people to be abused?