MEMBER CHURCH NEWS: RESPONSE TO ATTACKS ON SYRIA, HUNGARIAN-SOUTHERN AFRICAN PARTNERSHIP STRENGTHENED AND #ENOUGHISENOUGH

Women gathered in Mexico from all over the American continent in early October, to discuss the socio-political-religious realities and the challenges they face in their home countries, further encouraging each other in faith in Christ.

#EnoughIsEnough says the slogan of the Southern African churches who are standing up against the rising violence and xenophobia in their country! Many churches, including the Dutch Reformed Church and the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa (UPCSA) responded to the situation by strengthening their commitment to gender justice through new policies.

As people continue to live under conflict in war torn Syria, the General Secretary of the National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon, Rev. Joseph Kassab shared his update on the newly evolved situation in the northeast part of the country, asking everyone to continue praying for peace in the region!

Leaders from the Christian Reformed Church, started a series of visits to immigrant congregations in the US for strenghtening their partnership and support.

The All Africa Conference of Churches and the World Council of Churches partnered with UNICEF to run a series of workshops in Nigeria and Tanzania, advocating for the ending of sexual violence against children.

“It’s God’s grace” says Rev. Dr P.C. Singh, moderator of the Church of North India, referring to his work in the ecumenical community, which he recently discussed with the General Secretary of the World Council of Churches, Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit. The meetings did not only highlight past achievements in this area, but also articulated the way forward.

General Assembly of the Dutch Reformed Church focuses on renewal both in the church and in mission. As celebration of their strong partnership with the Reformed Church in Hungary, Rev Ódor Balázs, was also present at the meetings, reminding participants that we are all followers of the Prince of Peace.

The Presbyterian Church (USA) joined congregations in choosing to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day instead of Columbus Day!

 The United Presbyterian Church of Brazil published a manifesto on the current social and polictical situation in Brazil, drawing attention to how leaders misuse power in the country.

The Waldensian Evangelical Church, along with other Christian churches in Italy, in an official statement reaffirmed its commitment to faithful stewardship over God’s creation and articulated specific steps for congregations.

 

Photo: Reformed Church in Hungary