TO ALL IN THE UPCSA
Warm greetings from Tiyo Soga House.
We are pleased to inform the Church that the Executive Commission 2026 adopted the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) Statement prepared by the Fellowship of Women in the UPCSA, as we continue with the Thursdays in Black message, “Say No to Gender-Based Violence.”
Gender-based violence continues to be one of the most pressing challenges facing our society, affecting individuals, families, and communities. As followers of Christ, we are called to uphold the dignity of every person, stand against all forms of violence and abuse, and work towards creating safe and just communities where all people may flourish.
We encourage all Presbyteries, congregations, fellowships, and members of the UPCSA to engage with the statement and to support the Thursdays in Black campaign by wearing black on Thursdays as a visible witness against gender-based violence and as a sign of solidarity with survivors.
Attached herewith is the adopted GBVF Statement for your reflection, study, and implementation within the life and witness of the Church.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u1n0i_y9law6gNVodmBdTNKw0GZ7cN8V/view?usp=drivesdk
Let us continue to pray and work together for a society free from violence, where the love, justice, and peace of Christ prevail.
Kind regards,
St. Columba's Presbyterian Church, Hatfield 