Relationship to an abuser

[Annie39]

I don’t know if this question belongs here but it is a question on the bible so I thought that I’d try. Does anyone know of a good online bible study regarding forgiveness? Also, does the Church address the issue of what is required of the person who is the one who has forgiven the offender. That is, is it necessary for the victim, in this case a victim of sexual abuse as a child over a considerable time to resume a relationship with the abuser (In this case a step father).

Annie

 

[NHInsider]

I don’t believe there is a specific Scripture text but I do not think there is any obligation to resume a relationship with an abuser-in fact if there is a risk of further abuse (physical or emotional) then it would not be appropriate. Your body and soul are the Temple of the Holy Spirit and we are supposed to treat it with respect.

Forgiveness under such a circumstance is a work of the Spirit in the heart of the victim, to free them from the domination of the abuser.While life might present a situation in which the former victim might come into contact with the abuser (I’m thinking of Corrie ten Boom meeting the concentration camp guard years later), that’s different from deliberately re-establishing a relationship.

 

[tr1strev]

Forgiveness is of the heart. You are not, under any circumstances, obligated to maintain a relationship, however.

 

[Annie39]

Thank you both I am still looking for a Catholic online bible study on forgiveness. I found one yesterday but did not bookmark it and cannot find it today.