Question: If a person is sexually assaulted, though it is not their fault (even if they think it is) how are they suppose to pull through it spiritually and how can they look to God for help?

Let me address two very important maters before I get to your specific question: 1) If someone has been sexually assaulted it is NEVER your fault. It is a sin against you, plain and simple. 2) If you feel that a sexual assault has been perpetrated against you, then you should report it to the authorities. No one will blame you. You will be able to get some help and you may just be preventing someone else from being assaulted as you were.

In answering your specific question I guess I would remind you that you are God’s precious child and that nothing could ever take that away from you. In His eyes you are lovely, beautiful, pure, innocent and loved with an unconditional love. I would suggest that praying for the grace to know this Truth about yourself would be a good place to begin spiritual healing. “Moving on” from a horrible experience like this might not be the hardest thing to do compared to loving yourself and allowing God’s love to wash you clean from fear and bad memories.

Sexual assault is an attack upon one’s dignity as a human person. The fullest expression of our human dignity is found in Jesus Christ and His example of sacrificial love, the exact opposite of what you have experienced. Go before Him in the Blessed Sacrament often and allow Him to restore your feelings of dignity and worth through contact with His loving Presence. You don’t have to say anything or do anything, just go and sit with Him awhile and allow Him to hold you and comfort you for as long as you need it. You will be in my prayers during this Lenten Season.