Have you ever seen such a thing outside of a movie or court case depiction of abuse? This video surfaced recently and appears to show a ritual in a church setting where a 'priest' is using physical violence against children, even attempting to kick one of them (albeit lightly) while they are down.
I have attempted to learn what this actually is and the only explanation I have found is that it is a Catholic ritual of 'confirmation' that is interpreted sometimes to involve a physical attack or 'slap'. The wikipedia page for this topic describes it as such:
The "soldier of Christ" imagery was used, as far back as 350, by St Cyril of Jerusalem.[29] In this connection, the touch on the cheek that the bishop gave while saying "Pax tecum" (Peace be with you) to the person he had just confirmed was interpreted in the Roman Pontifical as a slap, a reminder to be brave in spreading and defending the faith
Whatever it is, I can assure you that this behavior has nothing to do with a loving God and creator of the universe - it is anti-Christ in nature and not of Christ.
Christ, being heart and loving balance of mind, spirit and will - does not involve physical violence.
