Dear Pastor,

I am a 22. I have been in a relationship since 15. Before I lived with him, he used to take me out but stopped. I went to live with him when I was 18. One of his in-laws raped me but I didn't tell him or anyone.

I became pregnant and they both abused me physically. I became sick. He beat me during my pregnancy and after. He calls me mad and says he doesn't want a mad woman and child around him. My son is three.

I left his house a month ago and am at my parents' house. He doesn't give me anything for the baby.

Please give me your advice and pray for me. Thank you.

N.S.

Dear N.S.,

You became sexually active when you were young and was sexually abused. Perhaps what you have gone through has caused you to become ill.

You did not tell anybody you were raped, and the man with whom you were living has physically abused you. You need lots of help.

You need to see a psychologist. Your child's father tells you that you are crazy. Perhaps he doesn't understand his ill-treatment of you has contributed to your behaviour.

I am sorry you did not report the rape to the police. All rapes should be reported.

I suggest you take this man to the Family Court for child support.

Pastor