Precious in God’s Eyes

16 days of activism to overcome gender based violence

(LWI) The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is encouraging church leaders to speak up publicly against gender-based violence. Joining the interfaith campaign “Precious in God’s Eyes,” LWF leaders have affirmed the long-standing commitment of the LWF to protect women and girls against violence.

“I encourage my faith community to protect, support and accompany survivors of rape and violence,” said LWF President Archbishop Dr Panti Filibus Musa.

“I will support women’s and girl’s quest for justice,” said LWF General Secretary Rev Dr Martin Junge.

Religious leaders are invited to share a photo and a testimony online and in social media, featuring a pledge to protect women, inspired by everyday occurrences in their country or church.

“Affirming women’s dignity as Precious in God’s Eyes relates deeply with the belief that human beings are created equal in the image of God,” says Maria Cristina Rendon from the gender justice and women empowerment program of the LWF. “The campaign wants to promote the conviction of women’s and girl’s integrity as God’s will,” Rendon emphasizes.

Interfaith commitment against gender based violence

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual advocacy campaign  between 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and 10 December, which is Human Rights Day.

Since 2015 the Interfaith Coalition for Gender Justice has collaborated on the campaign to affirm the commitment of religions to end violence against women and girls. Among the members of the coalition are the Anglican Communion, Islamic Relief Worldwide, the LWF, the World Council of Churches and the World Communion of Reformed Churches, Church of Sweden, Finn Church Aid and Norwegian Church Aid.

The Interfaith Coalition collaborates year round on advocacy for women’s human rights.