And now have I to die, innocent as I am of everything their malice has invented against me?
Our vision is a world where diverse women and girls are safe and respected, and where women and men share equally in shaping their societies.
And now have I to die, innocent as I am of everything their malice has invented against me?
Our vision is a world where diverse women and girls are safe and respected, and where women and men share equally in shaping their societies.
Hamunyare with her husband Shorai and her grandchildren
We encounter two narratives today that powerfully illustrate the danger faced by the vulnerable at the hands of the powerful. First, we have Susanna’s near-execution for a crime she did not commit, dramatically averted by Daniel’s exposure of the elders’ deception. Then in the gospel, Jesus saves a woman condemned by people who are cruelly using her to test him.
The stories recall all those whose voices go unheard, especially those facing injustice because they are women.
Today, women represent the majority of the world’s poor. Globally, they are less likely than men to be involved in decision making, to own land or property, or to have access to education, technology and employment. Violence against women affects one in three women worldwide.
Together with our partners, we are working hard to tackle gender inequality.
As a child in Zimbabwe, Hamunyare really wanted to continue her education. However, her parents did not prioritise girls going to school, so she was forced to leave and work as a housemaid. Hamunyare has now received training in floating gardens and is chairwoman of the fishponds committee. She is determined that all her grandchildren will complete their education, saying:
“It makes me happy because it means my grandchildren will have a brighter future. I am happy that the garden is helping me to pay for their school fees.”
This Lent may our words and our actions witness to the dignity and value of each member of the human family.
We pray for all women
who have been silenced,
by discrimination, violence or fear.
May women everywhere
be equipped and empowered
to be instruments of change.
Amen.
Find out more about our work on gender justice and inclusion.