RISE UP Against Domestic Abuse is a Mothers’ Union campaign to raise awareness about domestic abuse. We are working with our members to ensure that as many churches as possible have information about their local domestic abuse helpline.
The letters of RISE UP stand for Respond, Inform, Support, Empower, Unite and Pray.
Mothers’ Union is a global Christian movement working with people of all faiths and none to strengthen families and advocate for change. Our 4 million members are active in 83 countries and work tirelessly to serve their communities to build a future where everyone thrives.
If someone discloses abuse to you, you should:
Respond – Respond to them by doing the following
Inform – If a person is in immediate danger, call 999. Direct the person to your county domestic abuse helpline or the Refuge 24 hour helpline on 0808 2000 247
Support – Tell the victim the abuse is not their fault
Empower – Take the person seriously, trust what they say
Unite – Listen and believe
Pray – Pray for all those affected by domestic abuse
IMPORTANT Do not tell a victim to leave.
A prayer for RISE UP
God of justice, peace and compassion,
Heavenly Father, Creator and sustainer of all,
We thank you that you gave yourself, your own Son, to give every person the opportunity to turn from darkness to the light of your presence and love.
We know that all those who endure cruelty and abuse are precious in your sight, that no tear falls without your knowledge and love, and we ask that they would know your presence, strength, comfort and wisdom – even in their fear, confusion and pain.
We commit ourselves, those who have experience of abuse, those whose loved ones have experience of abuse and those of us who enjoy safety and peace in our relationships – to RISE UP against domestic abuse in all its forms.
We pray –
for your compassion as we seek to RESPOND –
for your wisdom as we become better INFORMED –
for your gentleness as we try to SUPPORT –
for your strength as we hope to EMPOWER –
and the mark of your Holy Spirit that UNITES us together to work and PRAY unceasingly,
until situations change and freedom, life and love is restored to all.
In your dear and powerful name we cry out to you together.
Amen
*****
Additional Resources (all will open in a new window/tab):
RISE UP Against Domestic Abuse Award Levels 2023 – 2024
RISE UP Church Pledge 2023 – 2024
RISE UP Service Outline Template 2023
Global Day is Mothers’ Union’s response to the call for action made during 16 Days of Activism, the worldwide campaign to end violence against women and girls.
The Mothers’ Union Annual Gathering 2021 was held as a virtual event on Saturday 25 September, streaming on YouTube Premiere.
This month it was a joy to welcome Ephena Matthew the Diocesan President of Antigua. She made me very welcome when I was lucky enough to visit Antigua in early 2020.
She stayed with me for a week and brought glorious Antiguan sunshine with her. It was a busy week of MU and church activity, and many people were able to meet her. We had a meeting of Deanery leaders and representatives at my house. It was a joy to be able to meet face to face and share a buffet meal and lots of ideas, as people start to worship and meet together again.
We were able to attend the wonderful service at Werrington church celebrating 100 years. Bishop John presided and Revd. Deborah, our chaplain, coordinated the prayers and offering of symbols of thanks. Jennie Edis gave a wonderful summary of MU activity. The branch and deanery had worked very hard to put on a wonderful celebration. We processed our MU banners, and of course enjoyed a wonderful spread of hospitality.
There were also opportunities to meet Ephena over a coffee at the Falcon, and sharing meals with friends. On the Saturday after attending a Eucharist together we walked nearly 15kms as part of the ride and stride. This involved walking across the fields between churches. The week ended with attendance together at our Harvest service.
Mary Sumner has left behind a grand legacy, sowing the seeds of ideas that have led to a movement which now spans the globe, supporting many thousands of people each year.