Candles flickered against the cool autumn evening as neighbors, parishioners and students walked side by side, united in a quiet show of strength and compassion.
The Shine the Light on Domestic Violence candlelight walk, hosted by St. Gianna Parish in conjunction with OSF Little Company of Mary Hospital and the Southside Domestic Violence Outreach Committee, brought the community together to stand in solidarity with victims and survivors of domestic violence.
“This is such an important issue to raise awareness on,” said Father Robert Tonelli, resident priest at St. Gianna Church. “More education needs to be made available to our younger generations.” His words reflected the heart of the evening, a community determined to confront domestic violence through unity, awareness and education.
The walk began on the steps of St. Gianna Church and made its way down 103rd Street, with participants offering prayers at both the start and conclusion. Saint Xavier University nursing students led the solemn procession, their candles glowing as symbols of hope and support for those impacted by abuse.
Honored guests included Father Chuck Dahm, a longtime advocate for domestic violence awareness; Saint Xavier University President Keith Elder; Evergreen Park Village Clerk Kelly Duffy; and Father Robert Tonelli of St. Gianna Parish. Their presence reflected the unity between civic, faith and educational leaders in addressing domestic violence and promoting healing within the community.
Charlene Bermele, dean of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences at Saint Xavier University, collaborated with the Southside Domestic Violence Outreach Committee to involve her nursing students in the event. The future nurses not only participated but also led the walk, a gesture that underscored their growing role as advocates for vulnerable populations.
“It was meaningful for our students to stand with the community and raise awareness about an issue that affects so many,” Bermele said.
Kayla Williams, of Chicago, a senior nursing student at Saint Xavier University, said the walk gave her a deeper sense of purpose.
“I am passionate about women’s and children’s health, and this is about making sure my future patients are safe,” she said. “Being here gives me the opportunity to represent a voice for those who do not have one, to be a voice to stand up against domestic violence.”
October, recognized nationally as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, served as the backdrop for the event, which also included participation from Saint Xavier University organizations in Nursing and Communication Sciences and Disorders.
As the final prayers were offered and candles dimmed, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose to continue shining a light on domestic violence and supporting those whose lives it touches.
