From the foreward:
As we continue to navigate the challenges of a global health crisis, we are more painfully aware of the ongoing “pandemic” of violence against women, which has been exacerbated and further exposed during COVID-19. Acknowledging this issue as vital to our gospel faith, the Heads of Communion of Churches Beyond Borders called for this year’s devotions to focus on gender-based violence, looking at both awareness and healing.
This booklet contains 16 devotions, timed with and inspired by the annual United Nations campaign, 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. The campaign runs from Nov. 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to Dec. 10 (International Human Rights Day)
Since Advent coincides with the campaign, the Magnificat is chosen as our guiding text, offering prayer and reflection alongside the call for awareness and action.The devotions give thanks for the strong and enduring voice of Mary as she says “yes” to the angel’s annunciation and as she greets her sister Elizabeth (Luke 1:38-55).
For the first time, you’ll find devotions written not just by our four bishops (heads of communion) but also by others representing each of our Churches Beyond Borders: Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, Anglican Church of Canada, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and The Episcopal Church.
Each writer has been deeply involved in this work, addressing the issues of missing and murdered Indigenous women, trafficking, women at the borders, and domestic violence.Their reflections on Mary’s word offer hope and invite our shared work and witness across all borders against gender-based violence.
We invite you to use these devotions not only for the 16 days in November and December—for Advent—but also throughout the year, whenever Mary’s Song calls to you and your congregations.
