Spanish evangelicals gather to denounce the gender-based violence

On November 23, on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, dozens of evangelicals gathered at the Puerta del Sol in the center of Madrid, Spain.

In this emblematic place, they raised their voice proclaiming that God condemns all violence, and He respects and defends women in a special way, being Jesus of Nazareth the perfect example of that.

The event, endorsed by the Evangelical Council of Madrid, had the participation and support of almost all platforms of evangelical women, as well as of many men.

It began with the greeting and presentation of Asun Quintana, who remembered the victims (women and children) , and stressed the responsibility of the Christians of not remaining silent before this terrible reality.

Afterwards, a group of youth from YWAM (Youth With A Mission) made an impressive breakdance performance about the escalation of violence against women within a couple, and how Jesus is the door always open to get out of the most terrible crisis situations.

“JESUS, THE WAY FOR THE TOTAL RESTORATION OF WOMEN”

After the performance, a Manifesto was read condemning violence in general and against women in particular, presenting Jesus as an answer.

“We must fight against this situation from all spheres: social, political, legal, economic, cultural ... but we offer another area from which to fight: Christ”, said the manifesto.

The organizers pointed out that “throughout his life, Jesus dignified the woman, at a time when our life had no value as human beings”.

“Sometimes the wounds are so deep that they leave sequels that are very difficult to heal, but today we want to share that there is hope for these wounded and broken lives, that there is a way for the total restoration of women, and it is through the person of Jesus, the Son of God”, the manifesto concluded.

“WHY ARE YOU CRYING?”

Pedro Tarquis, director of Areopago Protestante (the media group that includes Evangelical Focus and Protestante Digital), shared a brief message, which ended by explaining that Jesus' first question when He was resurrected was to Mary, first witness of that wonderful moment; and it was “Why are you crying?”

“Jesus continues to ask this question to each woman who suffers; and every man should see in Him the example of a man who is sensitive to the woman near Him”., he added.

The event ended with the reading of the poem “They, the murdered”, which was followed by a prayer by Nieves Carabaña, Women Counselour of the Evangelical Council of Madrid.