Pastor Carries Cross To Honor Victims Of Domestic Violence

For the second year in a row, one Wilson County pastor has chosen to honor victims of domestic violence by carrying a cross throughout Mt. Juliet. Over the weekend, David Ashley carried the cross to raise awareness and funds for a crisis intervention ministry for families at high risk of violence, WKRN reports.

The cross he carried, with the names of 3,400 victims, symbolizes the burden victims carry each day. When asked why he chose this way to help, the "Pastor of Pump" said wants to use the gifts he was given for an important cause.

"Well, the Bible says we must bear each other's burdens," he said. "And God has gifted me to life heavy things. I want to be a voice for the voiceless, because domestic violence is one of those hidden type evils."

His walk aims to raise money for Redemption, a family crisis center in Wilson County that would service victims of domestic abuse. According to a blog posted by David's wife, Holly, the crisis center would treat the entire family unit, provide resources and referrals for shelters, offer counseling and support, and more.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Some of the warning signs include: a partner putting them down in front of others, unexplained injuries or marks on their bodies, and unusual behaviors like no longer spending time with friends and family. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit its website here.

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