Reverend Michael Neely
Domestic Violence Champion and Counselor
When Safety Rises, Lives Are Restored.
Sacred Rising equips survivors, churches, and communities with trauma-informed education, advocacy, and restorative care to confront domestic violence with compassion, courage, and truth.
Michael's Story
Michael once hid bruises behind his Bible. Now he helps others rewrite their stories.
Support the Mission
Your generosity helps provide education, advocacy, and resources that bring healing, safety, and hope to survivors.
The Unspoken Epidemic in the Pews
Domestic violence isn’t just happening in churches—it’s often protected by them, hidden behind misused scripture and wrapped in silence. It’s time to break that silence and tell the truth: abuse has no place in the house of God.
"The most dangerous lies are the ones cloaked in holy language."
-Reverend Michael Neely
Why Sacred Rising?
Every survivor deserves to be believed. Every community deserves the tools to respond wisely. Sacred Rising exists to transform how churches and organizations address domestic violence through education, advocacy, and healing.
Our Mission
We confront domestic violence with compassion, courage, and truth by empowering survivors, equipping faith and secular leaders, and building trauma-informed communities.
Ways We Make an Impact
- Church Training
- Survivor Advocacy
- Speaking Events
- Community Education
- Professional Consulting
- Leadership Development
Three Pillars
Empower Survivors
Providing advocacy, education, and pathways toward healing.
Equip Leaders
Training churches, nonprofits, and professionals to respond safely and effectively.
Transform Communities
Building trauma-informed cultures where safety, justice, and dignity flourish.
To learn how Sacred Rising is creating lasting change through survivor advocacy, leadership training, and trauma-informed education, click the button below.
Black Eyes And Sweet Talk: A Biblical Perspective On Domestic Violence
Pastor Michael Neely is a passionate advocate for survivors of domestic violence, now sharing his faith journey to help others. Many Christian victims have remained in abusive marriages believing it's God's will. In this book, Pastor Michael offers a biblical yet controversial perspective on domestic violence and marriage, helping to free captives from false guilt and the misconception that staying and praying is God's intent. This unique work, written from the viewpoint of a male victim and survivor, guides readers through healing and provides a true understanding of forgiveness, reconciliation, and love.
Get your copy on Amazon today, available in digital and paperback copies.
Black Eyes and Sweet Talk: Where Theology Meets Truth
Faith as a Weapon or Lifeline
Too often, outdated doctrines and twisted scriptures keep survivors trapped in silence. But Michael Neely offers a different way—one where faith becomes a path to freedom, not a life sentence.
Read more about how he’s reclaiming the Word for the wounded.
Reclaiming the Pulpit: What’s Next for Michael Neely
Michael isn’t done—he’s just getting started. With bold plans to train churches, publish healing resources, and speak truth on national stages, he’s turning his mission into a movement.
“God Wants You Free”: A New Theology for Survivors
Michael is rewriting the gospel for survivors—one that acknowledges abuse, promotes healing, and holds institutions accountable. He’s not just offering counsel; he’s leading a movement to transform the church itself.
The Disruption: Rethinking Ministry, Rethinking Masculinity
Michael Neely challenges the status quo by showing that leaving an abusive marriage can be a godly act, integrating faith with survivor care. His lived experience transforms the way churches view abuse—and opens the door for true healing.
The Three People Michael Neely Refuses to Let the Church Forget
Each faces a different struggle, but Michael Neely is the bridge—offering hope, training, and truth where it’s needed most.
Read more about how Michael is transforming lives, one step at a time.
Featured Message
Her Name Is Nameless
Pastor Michael Neely explores Judges 19, addressing domestic violence, trauma, and the Church's call to protect, heal, and lead people into true freedom through Christ.
Join the Movement!
Your generosity helps Sacred Rising continue the mission of confronting domestic violence, empowering survivors, and equipping leaders with the tools needed to create trauma-informed communities. Together, we can help build a future where safety, healing, justice, and dignity rise for every survivor.