Michael Neely Addresses Domestic Violence in His Home, in the Church, in Florida, & in the USA

Many of us have been deeply concerned about domestic violence and been heart-broken at people we've known who've suffered, and maybe died, within a violent marriage, unable to leave. Today's SIA guest is Michael Neely, and he has testifying power about domestic abuse because of his many years in a marriage where he was badly abused. He'll talk about that today, but you can also find portions in his book, Black Eyes and Sweet Talk. While most violent abuse is male on female, when Michael has shared his story, it has freed so very many women, and also some men, to find a way to freedom from the torment and fear. In particular, Michael has worked to help churches move away from keeping abused spouses in violent marriages. Micheal Neely is co-pastor at University Baptist Church (Tampa), works and has worked with the Spring of Tampa Bay, Alliance for Hope International, FPEDV (Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence), and links to find help for domestic violence in your area can be found via the National Domestic Violence Hotline (or call 800-799-7233) and the Family Justice Centers.

Thanks to Andrew Janssen for production help on this show. Michael Neely has so much invaluable story to share that we had to cut around 17 minutes from this broadcast version, which you can find in our podcast version on NSR.org. Right now Micheal Neely joins us via Zoom from Tampa, Florida.

Past/present religious/spiritual influences: Baptist, Jehovah Witnesses, Plymouth Brethren, C&MA-Christian and Missionary Alliance