TO ALL IN THE UPCSA
In his November Letter, the Moderator of the UPCSA General Assembly introduced the UPCSA’s participation in the 16 days campaign against gender-based violence (GBV) and stated as follows:
The UPCSA wants to add its voice to the many others calling for an end to GBV in whatever form in all three countries in which the UPCSA is active. We have, in the past, marked these significant days on the annual calendar, but this year we want to go much further. We want to draw attention to the plight of vulnerable communities, so that these persons will be able to move about in safety and be able to live their lives with dignity.
The Moderator further delineated the events and activities that will take place over the 16 Days of Activism Campaign. A statement will be issued on the day of the launch of the campaign (25 November 2020). It is requested that the statement should be shared with and studied by all.
This communiqué serves to urge all the Presbyterians to participate in the efforts to eradicate gender based violence and condemn the violence in the strongest terms. The real test for us in the UPCSA is how we deal with the issues of GBV in our families, congregations, decision making structures (especially the Councils of the UPCSA) and in our societies. We need to work on our attitudes and behaviours that continue to cause pain and brokenness to others and repent. We are called to bear witness to God’s saving love that is in Jesus Christ; that is the good news. Our sister, the Rev Shona van der Lingen, shared the posts that may be used by all during the campaign. They are hereby shared with all.
Warmest regards,
Rev Dr Lungile Mpetsheni
Rhadebe
General Secretary