INTERVIEW with Clergy Abuse Survivor - Faith Hakesley who Found Faith and Forgiveness - New Book which Helps those Involved in Sexual Abuse - Video
Catholic News World was honored to interview Faith Hakesley, who is a clergy abuse survivor. She has written a new book where she discusses faith, forgiveness and healing from abuse. LISTEN to her explain how her experiences have helped her write this new book which can help other victims, church leaders and faithful on how to deal with abuse on all levels.
(WATCH the Video Below and Listen to Faith's True Story)
Biography of Faith from her Website:
Faith Hakesley was born and raised in Massachusetts where she graduated from the University of Massachusetts Lowell with a B.S. in Criminal Justice. Following graduation, she worked in the Psychology field until the birth of her first child. Over the course of her life, she has overcome many traumas including rape by a Catholic priest, the death of a brother, and has lived through cancer as well as a serious heart condition. Faith and her husband homeschool their three children and are just welcomed their fourth child.
In 2008, Faith was one of five victims of clerical abuse from the Archdiocese of Boston to meet with Pope Benedict XVI during his trip to Washington, D.C. As a result of their meeting, she began reaching out to others suffering from trauma, particularly sexual abuse, and became passionate about sharing her story in an effort to offer hope, healing, and peace to those who are suffering. Faith strives to be an advocate for survivors, break the stigmas associated with trauma, and encourage others to find hope through their faith.
It started with a Tootsie Roll.
The day then-18-year-old Faith Hakesley was to testify in court against the well-liked Catholic priest who had raped her, a court guard pressed a Tootsie Roll into her hand. It was the first glimmer.
The little piece of candy reminded her of the Scripture about "faith the size of a mustard seed," and this bit of encouragement, by way of the guard, but really from God, gave her the courage she needed to endure the trial.
In Glimmers of Grace: Moments of Peace and Healing Following Sexual Abuse, Faith shares what she has learned about the gifts God wants to give victims throughout their journey of healing. Practical, personal, and versatile, Glimmers of Grace accompanies readers step by step from acceptance to true freedom.
In each reflection, you'll explore the healing gifts God offers, including:
Hope
Kindness
Perseverance
Self-compassion
Joy
Each reflection includes a gratitude prompt, positive affirmation, achievable to-dos, and journaling questions to help you embrace each gift. Like Faith, you can learn, slowly but surely, to see where and how God is speaking to you and find hope and healing after sexual abuse.
Glimmers of Grace can also help spouses, friends, loved ones, or anyone who works with abuse victims gain perspective and understanding.
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