Nearly 50 Methodist ministers and church leaders are better equipped to serve domestic violence victims in their congregations after participating in recent trainings to help them understand the complexities of the crime.

“Oftentimes, victims of domestic violence will reach out to their faith leaders before they talk to anyone else because they trust them,” said Annetta Nunn, community outreach coordinator for YWCA Central Alabama. “It’s important for clergy to know about the resources that are available and how to best help victims in their congregations.”